I was noticing that the last three times I wrote here it was of a controversial nature -- gun control, homosexuality, and the social concerns that caused me to be hopeful about the results of the fall election.
The other day we were discussing this at the Staff Parish Relations Committee meeting. This is the group that evaluates, supports, and challenges me. The conversation was about how some people do not like the pastor writing or speaking about controversial social issues. This led to a rich conversation and encouragement to write about it.
Here's the thing --- the bible addresses all of life. It knows nothing of boundaries between private spirituality and public morality. Central to what we call the Old Testament, is the story of liberation from oppression as Moses led the Hebrew people on a dramatic escape from slavery. The Hebrew prophets continually challenged the status quo with concern for the poor and a call for justice and to not put too much trust in military strength. They advocated for the hungry and the immigrant. Jesus was executed for treason by Rome. Central to his teachings was an alternative, counter-cultural Kingdom. This Kingdom could be described by bread for everybody, healing for all (health care), economic justice, forgiveness of debt, and the peaceful resolving of conflict.
The founder of the Methodist movement, John Wesley, worked tirelessly for an end to slavery, labor laws that protect children, and assistance to those dealing with food insecurity. He was also very concerned about addiction and what the abuse of alcohol was doing to people.
So you see there is this long tradition of applying faith to all of life. In the United Methodist Church we use scripture, tradition, reason, and experience to grapple with the important issues of the day. So you see, when I comment on peace, poverty, sexuality, and violence --- I am trying to speak from my perspective as a deeply committed follower of Jesus and one trying to love God with all my heart, soul, mind and strength --- and my neighbor as myself. I am speaking as one who is a part of this Methodist movement that talks about social holiness.
As a follower of Jesus and a pastor in the Methodist tradition, I will continue to write about the issues and concerns of the day. I believe I can offer an important perspective. You are always free to disagree. I may be wrong. Tell me what you think. Use the United Methodist guidelines -- scripture, tradition, reason, and experience. And let's try to be prayerful about it.
