I have had a few folks comment to me about the remarks of Rev. Jeremiah Wright and the news items and opinion pieces that have been on TV and in the paper. I have to admit that I have not listened to or read all of Rev. Wrights' remarks. Still, it seems clear to me that he has gone from misunderstood - most of the original sound bites were taken out of their original context - to embarrassing. Rev. Wright is a preacher who uses direct and often confronting language to make his points. His goal is to stir people to action, to live their faith in every aspect of their lives, including in their politics. I doubt he ever expected all his listeners to agree. He is also a preacher who has gone from a relatively limited, and mostly friendly, stage, to a hostile, national spotlight. It appears he is not suited for such a position.
I recommend to you the comments of John Thomas, our UCC President. In addition, Bill Moyers has written, and broadcast, an essay in response to Rev. Wrights' National Press Club appearance that is definitely worth your attention. (Both are on the www.ucc.org website if the links do not work.) The leaders of the UCC have suggested that these events give us an opportunity to have a nuanced and thoughtful conversation on racial issues. Barack Obama's speech on race, "A More Perfect Union," is on YouTube. The text is also available in various places. I will brush up a bit on these issues, but I will leave it to you all to let me know how you would like to approach them.
Although I am not preaching this Sunday, and Zion's services will be based on very different scriptures, let me encourage the reading of the creation story beginning with Genesis 1:1. At the end when everything was done, we are told that God rested. Something I have just read suggested that God did not rest out of tiredness, but to take time to reflect on all that had been done and to enjoy it. We all need a rhythm of work and rest in order to be in balance, to develop a healthy perspective on our lives Constant busyness with sports, events, yard work, shopping, housework - whatever fills your hours but does not slow you down - leads us to emptiness and exhaustion. (All of these things can be relaxing and reflective - well, shopping? - but are often just more work and energy expended.)
Have a blessed weekend!
No comments:
Post a Comment