08-24-23

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
August 24, 2023
So I’m driving in NE Texas, and alongside the road I notice a poorly made sign that reads: WE PROCESS MEAT. I assume they are getting ready for deer season. But the sign was only 30 yards or so away from a cemetery. Placement is everything! I’ve seen too many horror movies to not be left a bit nervous about exactly what kind of meat they are processing. Again, proximity to something can be helpful or damaging to your reputation, and this is why I have spoken and written quite a bit lately in regard to White Christian Nationalism. It was not our choice, but certain hateful expressions of Christianity are placed right alongside every other expression of Christianity. More than a quarter of the U.S. population now claims no religious affiliation, and among that group, a high percentage of them have a negative opinion of Christianity. Why? Because they bundle us all together, and unless we become ultra-clear about who we are and make sure there is no confusion by association, more and more people will come to believe that all Christians are hateful, racist, and misogynistic. Because of the name, we find ourselves placed in close proximity to groups that, in my opinion, bear no resemblance to Jesus. I too often find myself saying, "But I’m not one of those kinds of Christians." Maybe my life and my proclamation should make it so clear that a disclaimer is not necessary, but right now, I find the need to make a distinction.

We may not all have the same beliefs about you, O God, but the Jesus of scripture seems ever so clear about the priority of love, the necessity of mercy, and the absolute need for compassion. Maybe we can all just start there. Amen.