09/11/2023
Great Quote that Just Missed
‘The Cut’ to be Included In the Sermon
Jen Wilkins, in her excellent exposition of the ‘Ten Words’ writes:
“If I am walking into my home and see a ladybug on my doorstep, I smile and take care to relocate it to the nearest plant. But if I see a cockroach, I have a different response. Why? Because I feel affection for one and contempt for the other. Any decent entomologist would tell me that these two creatures are essentially equals, but I have devoted myself to elevating one to “delightful” and the other to “despicable”. A faulty entomology has its consequences, but how much more so a faulty anthropology? Contempt directed at an image bearer breeds all manner of violence.”
As the father of an entomologist, I love the line that says: “A faulty entomology…(vs.) a faulty anthropology. I would add a faulty theology—a misunderstanding of who God is and what God desires for his earthly children. The difference between a cockroach and a ladybug is a difference in point of view and nothing more. The difference from a Maga Republican and a Progressive Democrat is a difference of two competing visions of what is best for our nation and the world. Nothing more. No insidious conspiracies, no passion to take away anyone’s rights, just two citizens of the same nation who want that nation to live up to its highest ideals.
Anger that leads to outrage and outrage that is harnessed by “anger merchants” and turned into contempt—that is a deadly influence to the heart of a Christian. It poses a clear and present danger to neighbors living with neighbors as well as our shared love of constitutional democracy. As we have been seeing among United Methodists, it also has the power to break down the body of Christ into little homogeneous islands of like-thinking denominations/congregations.
Archived Posts
The Gift of Ourselves As A Gift of Love
The more the giving of myself costs me something, the greater the power of the gift. You know I love quotes, so after a little research, let me share a few of my favorites on this very subject:
The Loss of a Great Christian Leader
The death today of Pope Francis was particularly poignant, falling as it did on the day after Easter. As Protestant Christians we have a once removed interest in the leader of the Roman Catholic church. Yet the pope is the authoritative leader of 1.4 billion women and men around the world. It is worth our time to pause and consider what kind of man and what kind of legacy Pope Francis left behind.
Everything You Wanted To Know About Judas Iscariot
(Drawn from online sources)
Jesus Hears A Who
Few people know that Horton Hears A Who comes from the 25th Chapter of Matthew.
Matthew 24: One More Thing...
I sometimes stumble on old documents I’ve created but have completely forgotten about. I cannot remember why I created them or what purpose they were originally supposed to serve....
Keeping the Church Doors Unencumbered
Sunday, we considered Jesus’ disruptive actions in the Temple in light of his frustration with keeping gentiles from worshipping in their designated courtyard. We then reflected on how we still tend to throw up roadblocks to those who don’t normally attend church. I found the following, but didn’t have space for it in the sermon. It’s provocative and worth chewing on for a while.
What Was the Crowd Celebrating on Palm Sunday?
I came across this list which feels a little like a "Greatest Hits of Jesus' Ministry". I share it with you today for your inspiration and edification. Enjoy!