Participating in this module gave me some new clarity on the “why” of the fusion of Christianity in partisan politics. I was in a place of not being able to understand why anybody would vote for Trump, he seems to have offended every people group. But then I became aware of, through the conversation of this module, the great fear that lives at the heart of Both of these narratives. One that says you need the biggest meanest, baddest winningest dog in the fight. And you want them on your side. And one that says you go to hell if you make the wrong choice. These two scary, violent, and ultimatum inducing, narratives fit hand-in-hand.
For my organization, it has invited us into a series I am working through with my congregation on conflict. I am keeping at the forefront the ideas of nonviolence that Elizabeth talked about. I have shared around what she sees the solutions church are capable of. For example, addressing belonging and significance, goals that matter, and strong connections. I am emphasizing these ideas as my community struggles with hope when so much seems lost. And the way we’re choosing to do This as a “faith that restores instead of a religion that dominates” can sometimes be unsatisfying. The fruits of this kind of effort take much longer to grow than the pace of destruction. Is slow hard work, and I struggle to maintain confidence in this path often. but I believe it too much to do anything different.
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Katy – the resolve that I hear from your words remind me of one of my favorite phrases: a long obedience in the same direction. Eugene Peterson, quoting Friedrich Nietzsche, said it is the sustained, consistent effort in following a chosen path that leads to positive and meaningful outcomes. I pray you see those desired outcomes!