In recent weeks the Freeview channels have been changed, requiring us to connect and get an update. It may not take us long to find the new channels, or new channel numbers.
I was told of one new channel someone had found: an American channel dedicated solely to religious broadcasts, where preachers would shout and, occasionally, thump the lectern/pulpit demanding people “to change their ways, renounce evil and turn to Christ” – perhaps you have also heard such coverage, or maybe heard that in church? Possibly we could summarise that teaching as “Stop doing that, it’s wrong”.
how they moved away from “Bible Thumping”
When we hear a message it doesn’t take us long to either “tune in”, focus on what is said, or “tune out”. I wonder, after speaking to two people from the Basement Project, Halifax’s Community Detoxification Centre, whether the younger generation may have heard such a message of damnation, of possible rejection and “tuned out” from “church”. I asked them what were they doing to encourage those struggling with addiction to move on. They responded by focusing upon welcome, acknowledging the issues as real and being part of a loving ‘family’.
They didn’t say “No, you have got it wrong”…
Remember the initial words from Alcoholics (or Narcotics) Anonymous: “Hi my name is …. and I’m an alcoholic”. The individual accepted that they needed help. To get to that situation, that position, they themselves had to find acceptance for whom they are. Furthermore, AA has a spiritual foundation.
In this Lenten time, as we sacrifice something for a closer relationship with God, may we offer sacrificially our presumptions of others, and offer a welcome and acceptance, not on our terms, or how we might like the other person to be, but as they are.
Maybe see the world from their perspective.
Then, together, we might walk together, possibly stumble a few times, but persevere with our relationship, and offer hope.
The story of the Emmaus Road comes to mind. They were desperate but this stranger came to them along that road, and, without despising them, albeit critiquing the current society, explained, and gave them hope. We too can bring God’s light to others.