Scripture: Romans 16:17
I urge you, brothers and sisters, to keep an eye on those who cause dissensions and offenses, in opposition to the teaching that you have learned; avoid them.
Thought for the Day: After the recent tragedy in Newtown, Connecticut, an interfaith prayer vigil was held. A diverse community came together for prayer, including a pastor from the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. One of the victims of the shooting had been a member of that church, and so it only made sense for the pastor to participate. In the weeks that followed, the hierarchy of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod denounced the pastor’s participation, as he had publicly stood alongside people who believed differently. This single verse from the 16th chapter of Romans was used to justify that belief. Now understand, I will always defend any religious group’s right to share their unique beliefs as long as they are not harmful to self or others. At the same time, I will point out sharp contrasts when they exist…and in this case, my faith offers a sharp contrast. To use this passage as justification for why we should never stand alongside a Catholic or a person of the Jewish faith is to rip it from its context. Paul was talking to an existing community (like a single congregation), and he was warning them about those internal squabbles that can lead to brokenness. To employ this passage in an argument against tolerance and interfaith respect, especially at a time when people were experiencing utter chaos, is to create the very dissension for which Paul was warning. Such arguments are done, I’m sure, with the best intentions, but they are offered in the name of the one who used a Samaritan – a person of a different religious belief – as the example of true faithfulness. And all the time, the man in the parable remained a Samaritan. Had that character in the parable come to life and asked Jesus to pray publicly alongside him at a time of tragedy, I’m pretty certain the answer would have been an unequivocal ‘YES!’ In fact, the coming together of diverse faith expressions in those moments announces something more profound than any one of the faith traditions could have said alone.
Prayer: Grant me, O Lord, strong convictions so I am not threatened when I stand alongside someone whose beliefs are different. Allow me to listen and to share, to seek understanding, and to allow my faith to show respect and a spirit of unity. Amen.
2 thoughts on “Ecclesiological Etchings: 02-08-13”
Of course you are “right on”! Thanks.
After I saw the article in the paper I was hoping you would respond. Thanks.
I learned something about the parable of the Good Semaritan. I always figured I was the one who passed by. But I read that we are ALL the people in the parable at some time or another. Never had thought of that but this has been a very helpful idea for me for many years. Choice makes all the difference and brings with it lots of deep thoughts. Have any?
.
That’s the beauty and power of parable! It is magnificent in its ability to comfort, challenge, encourage or even allow us to see something new many years after reading it for the first time. Jesus was a pretty amazing teacher!