ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
May 31, 2025
In the final episode of the Handmaid’s Tale, Mark Tuello, a commander (one of the good guys) in the series, says, “When I close my eyes, I see my son, so then I get up and go back to work. I will bring down Gilead so he doesn’t have to do it.” Of course, Gilead is the antagonist in the series, the name given to the patriarchal, totalitarian theocratic government that has taken over what was the United States. It is a powerful story about Christian fundamentalism/nationalism instituting a strict and very narrow reading of the Bible upon people, specifically women. But the line from the character Mark Tuello is so true for every moment in human history. “Gilead” embodies the demonic force that aims to eliminate freedom, replacing it with some form of religious extremism that believes it possesses a deeper understanding of God than even God has. So what actions are we taking to ensure that our children are not burdened by the consequences of our silence? What steps can we take in this very moment?
Paul wrote to the Galatians, “So let us not grow weary in doing what is right, for we will reap at harvest time, if we do not give up. So then, whenever we have an opportunity, let us work for the good of all…” (vs.9-10).
I know many people have come to believe that doing what is “right” means seeking some sort of return to good old-fashioned Biblical ideas, and though I would not disagree with them in theory, I strongly disagree with so many who seem to suggest that love, mercy, kindness, and justice are not included in those “good old-fashioned Biblical ideas.” Offering a clear and dramatic alternative to the Jesus message, starting with the Sermon on the Mount and not the Ten Commandments, is one place the church can give its energy. Helping people deal with their insecurities that play into fear-based violence is another place for good work. And maybe trusting in the power of prayer will help, finding it a place to tap into the energy that is the Holy Spirit at work in the world today. So what actions are we taking so our children don’t have to deal with Gilead?
Holy and Visionary God, help me as I do not wish to allow feelings of powerlessness and hopelessness to consume me. Give me courage to act as Jesus did, always serving the most vulnerable and refusing to allow unholy and unhealthy power to restrict freedom. The voice of Christ continues to speak, declaring a mission of bringing good news to the world and seeking to set the oppressed free. May this be my mission today and each day to follow. Amen.
