ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
August 18, 2025
On this day in 1920, Tennessee became the 36th state to ratify what would become the 19th Amendment, giving women the right to vote. Though I am proud we have the amendment, I sort of wonder why it took so long. Today, let us not only give thanks for the rights that we have to participate in our democracy, but let us also be mindful of both individuals and groups who appear to be losing rights—not only in this country, but around the globe. In the days of Jesus, religion seemed very interested in restricting and limiting people, yet Jesus appeared interested in eliminating the restrictions and removing the limitations. Sadly, when we look at recent history, it has often been Christians who have fought against granting people rights. It seems strange, yet human nature is strange and fearful and apprehensive of anything that even appears to invite change. Maybe it is time to stop following human nature, and instead, follow Jesus.
Holy God whose power and inspiration are behind every good and life-giving change in this world, we are thankful for how you continue to bring about change, even when some invoke your name for the purpose of reversing the good and just changes that have come to this world. Let our message represent the life and teachings of Jesus who gave everything, including his life, to liberate the lives of every single human being—past, present, and future. Amen.
