A progressive christian church in Indianapolis is beginning an aggressive marketing campaign asking “Who Stole Jesus?” They point out (rightly in my opinion) how the Jesus of the gospels is unrecognizable by the Jesus who is characterized in the preaching and teaching of many modern day churches. I appreciate the way they have framed this [...]
Archive for September, 2011
20 Sep
Signs from God
Several weeks ago, many national leaders including preachers and politicians wanted to suggest recent earthquakes, tornadoes and hurricanes especially in the northeast part of our country were “signs from God.” It always amazes me how quickly natural disasters are attributed to some intentional strategy of the divine. Insurance companies commonly call them “acts of God.” [...]
8 Sep
Adult Reflections on Losing One’s Mother as a Child
I am grateful to Michelle Tupper Butler who reflects in the Oates Journal about her experiences of losing her mother to death when she was in the fourth grade. Her essay is poignant for its insight and significant for its honesty. Her experience testifies to the power of community and friendship needed during such terrible [...]
