Here’s one (of many) opportunities for the Christian church if we dare to engage in it… To make sacred space for an alternate reality where we live joyfully in direct opposition to the most toxic aspects of our predominant culture. Our predominant culture senselessly caters to the parts of us that are the least life-giving. It is a culture with ingrained narratives that feed on the vulnerable and constantly remind us that we are not enough. It tells us in all kinds of subtle and directly nefarious ways that we need to perform and produce at higher levels (and to do so publicly on social media so that our friends can see how good we’re doing). Our culture holds the carrot out in front of our noses and moves it further and further away the faster we run toward it.
Thanks for an important reminder, Jonas. There really is so much joy all around us in life, if only we'd shut off the devices and see it. Just today in the park, walking my dog, I met a guy walking his dog. We talked about the weather, family, work, life. Our dogs played together. The grackle birds chirped around us. Despite the intense summer heat here in Vegas, it was a nice moment. A joy. We have so much to be grateful for. So much to see and appreciate. Like the colorful bug in the Rob Bell video you linked. God must shake his head sometimes, and wonder why we make it all so hard for ourselves.
"... where we live joyfully in direct opposition to the most toxic aspects of our predominant culture." Joyfully is the antidote. I'm going to test that out today. I want to experience living in direct opposition to toxicity, JOYFULLY, with unconditional love, unconditional respect, requiring no agreement.
Thanks for an important reminder, Jonas. There really is so much joy all around us in life, if only we'd shut off the devices and see it. Just today in the park, walking my dog, I met a guy walking his dog. We talked about the weather, family, work, life. Our dogs played together. The grackle birds chirped around us. Despite the intense summer heat here in Vegas, it was a nice moment. A joy. We have so much to be grateful for. So much to see and appreciate. Like the colorful bug in the Rob Bell video you linked. God must shake his head sometimes, and wonder why we make it all so hard for ourselves.
Oh, for sure, John. God has gotta be like, “Look how difficult they’re making it…. How adorable:)” Thanks, as always, dear friend.
Jonas, it was lovely to hear you read your poetic words. Please do it more often. L
Okay, I will! Thanks, LuAnne!!
"... where we live joyfully in direct opposition to the most toxic aspects of our predominant culture." Joyfully is the antidote. I'm going to test that out today. I want to experience living in direct opposition to toxicity, JOYFULLY, with unconditional love, unconditional respect, requiring no agreement.
Amen.