09-01-19

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS

September 1, 2019

Scripture: 1st John 2:9-11

The one who claims to be in the light while hating a brother or sister is in the darkness even now. The person loving a brother and sister stays in the light, and there is nothing in the light that causes a person to stumble. But the person who hates a brother or sister is in the darkness and lives in the darkness, and doesn’t know where to go because the darkness blinds the eyes.

Thought for the Day: 1st John definitely presents a world view that is black or white, either/or. There is not a lot of nuance, but notice the criteria by which a person is assigned to light or darkness. It is entirely attributed to the treatment of the neighbor. In a religious world where too often faithfulness is connected entirely to doctrine or saying the correct creed, the author of 1st John proposes something entirely different. In fact, you can read between the lines and gain a glimpse of those who talk a good talk, but treat their neighbors horribly. That might have been the catalyst for writing this document in the first place. And even though I believe that every human being is a mix of light and darkness, good and bad choices, we cannot allow this inner-duality to become an excuse. It makes a difference if we chose to live in the light, not only for ourselves, but for brothers and sisters who come from another mother. The real transformation of the world will not come through an alignment of theological statements, but human beings making the daily choice to love.

Prayer: I wish to live in your light, O God of Glory. You love me, and in that love, I experience the warmth of your light. Make it my mission to share that gift with as many others as possible. Amen.

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