in the world but not of…
A common ‘us vs. them’ term used in the Christian lexicon is living in the ‘fallen’ world while simultaneously striving to resist the tempting allure the world has to offer. This kind of religion dominates our culture, particularly South of the border, where attempts to engage the world beyond the church walls come from an outside position of power. The way particular values are shared with ‘the world’ isn’t by relationship, but covertly through back door legislation or ordinances.
The belief is the only way to retain what ‘once was’, a familiar religious lifestyle and value set, is to retain influence and control of the major power structures of society: Parliament, City Hall, the Cathedral, etc.
Although this is a popular religious pursuit, it’s not the direction Jesus took.
Jesus spent his time subverting (the attempt to transform the established social order) his cultural power structures while showing a different way of living. This never came from a position of power or authority, but rather, a place of humility that is ultimately exemplified on the cross where he laid down his life for his friends.
in the world but not of…
The ‘us vs. them’ idea seems to be ‘anti-Jesus’. I think this is our reality: we are residents of our communities, we share ownership in our city, we should hurt when our neighbours hurt. We do all of this while pointing to a different story, a graceful and humble pursuit of God’s unfolding dream for our city.
in the world, and with others, pointing to better…