08-30-23

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
August 30, 2023
What would it look like to step into conflict with a clear expression of love? We have examples, and sadly, the initial reaction is not good. Often, the energy of the conflict is redirected toward the one who is offering an alternative. There are times when somehow the one who tries to enter into the conflict with love is scapegoated and blamed for the conflict itself. Jesus found himself in this circumstance often, as is described in Mark 3, where Jesus puts himself in the middle of some religious bickering that occurred between the different religious sects of the day. Within a few verses, both his family and the scribes accuse Jesus of being out of his mind or possessed by a demon. The different groups, often fighting among themselves, suddenly turn that negative energy against Jesus. In moments like this, the common response of the one who is on the receiving end of the accusations is to back away. Strangely, even as the original conflict returns, the narrative shifts, and the one offering the alternative is made to be the real problem. What we learn at the end of the day is that there is rarely any interest in actually resolving the conflict. So often, identity and financial prosperity are tied to the maintaining of the conflict, and if some third party can be cast in the role of the villain, the conflict can continue without the real source of the problem ever being named. This continues to happen today—in the workplace, our politics, families, and even churches. Notice that Jesus was one who did not step away but continued to be the agent of love, offering an alternative amidst the conflict.

​With courage that can only come from you, O Mighty God, I seek to be one who willingly steps into the fray and offers some Good News about love, mercy, and kindness. May I have what it takes to stay, even when I am cast as the enemy. Amen.