08-01-26

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
August 1, 2026
At a time when there is an epidemic of loneliness, and there is so much chaos in our so-called civic discourse, hopelessness is increasingly infiltrating the lives of more and more individuals. It’s strange how those grappling with hopelessness often don’t explicitly label it as such, instead describing it as exhaustion, malaise, or an inability to focus. But as they are pushed a little harder, people talk as if two things are missing — a foundation that feels strong and a sense of purpose that drives them to get up every morning. When neither one of those seems to exist, there is a feeling as if we have been untethered and are floating aimlessly. Hope cannot be rediscovered overnight or after reading one self-help article. But since what is foundational and what gives purpose are rooted in what we value, and both of those are often discovered and encouraged through community, I would suggest that finding a value-centered community is crucial. Now I know I am paid spokesperson for a church, but I am also a proud participant in the church. Now a lot of churches are good at providing a fun and friend-making experience (lots of smiling and laughing people in their advertisements), but the foundation they are offering is sand and the purpose is far from life-giving. It is interesting that a growing interest in church has been noticed by those who study such things, yet those searching are also seeking authenticity, inclusion, and a sense of love that is not conditioned by the prevailing winds of fear-based rhetoric. I just had a conversation, and I am writing about it with permission, with a 30-something who started back to church a few months ago, and he is already out the door. Sadly, I think it might have been his one try, but as soon as he pulled back the curtain, what he discovered was the same lying, hateful, judgmental, science-fearing, and scapegoating garbage that Jesus spent three years of his life trying to transform. Yet it is still here and wearing the same pious religious titles that have always sought to use religion in pursuit of power, money, and more money. Saddened by this conversation, I remain a person of hope because I am part of a community that is founded on the unconditional and unrelenting love of God made real in Jesus, and we are pursuing, with numerous bumbles, a love first life for the sake of all creation. There are other such communities, and if you are not around Spring, Texas, let me know how I can help. I know some people who know some people, and they are all really good and genuinely loving people. 

In a world where religion has again fallen into the same traps that have undercut your work in this world, Merciful God, I ask for your Spirit to provide me with hope that knows both a strong foundation and a sacred purpose. Amen.