04-28-23

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
April 28, 2023
More than a year ago, Donna and I heard that “To Kill a Mockingbird” was coming to the Hobby Center, and so our Christmas gift that year (even though tickets were not yet on sale) was dinner and a play. From age 15 to 40 or so, I read “To Kill a Mockingbird” at least once every year. It continued to reveal new truths and challenges, and though I have only read it a couple times in the last decade, I was beyond excited about seeing it live. And it did not disappoint! Now there are many folk who have complained, if not outright trashed this version, but I found it powerful and equally discomforting. Among the many changes and modifications to the play, there is a line added to Mr. Raymond’s short monologue, where he says: "When horror comes to supper, it comes dressed exactly like a Christian." Many have said that a book challenging prejudice was modified to speak prejudicial words against Christians. I might join those who were offended if the words added were not so true. Whether it was the 1930s or the last nine months, some pretty horrific hate has come dressed in Christian clothing. We may not like it, and we might even shake our heads in distaste, but many will lump us together under the title of Christian. A majority of those who have pulled away from Christianity, whether they now call themselves agnostics or simply spiritual, would describe Christianity as a religion of hate, bigotry, and misogyny. The Christianity I know, and see expressed at Cypress Creek Christian Church, seeks to counter hate with love, bigotry with inclusion, and misogyny with the honoring of all gifts. The Apostle Paul put love first, while never being timid in calling out what might undermine the very love he was called to share. Too much horror has come to supper dressed as a Christian, and as we name it for what it is, we also need to make sure we are offering a clear alternative.

O God whose love is immeasurable, challenging, and redemptive, we seek your Spirit of power as we strive to offer an image of Jesus that is welcoming, compelling, and transformative. May this embodied expression show up at supper with grace, kindness, and mercy. Amen.