This WEDNESDAY EVENING at The Table
I had a conversation this past week that reminded me again of how much of what passes for “Christian spirituality” seems to be comprised largely of protectionism – the guarding of social norms or particular theological ideas. I can appreciate why that might be the case. We feel more secure when we believe we have something cosmic and “eternal” sorted out and translated into lifestyle and social choices, and we feel threatened when our perspectives are challenged.
The curious thing is that Jesus, the one whose teachings form the core of Christianity, didn’t even hint at the need for us to protect God by defending our own cherished beliefs. If fact, what Jesus taught was that God’s world saving work doesn’t depend on us at all, but rather that we have the opportunity to participate in something that God is up to, something God both has done and will do – with or without us.
I suppose that might sound like bad news or good news, depending on whether or not we want to be part of what God is doing. But either way, it’s a bit of an adjustment from what seems to be our most common perspective, which is that God NEEDS us to react a certain way if we really want life to be offered to the world.
Well…rather than write down the whole reflection, let’s gather on Wednesday night and dig into it together. That way, we can also enjoy one another’s company, some music, a small taste of the feast of the goodness that is God, and some coffee…
Peace,
Tim Plett