How far would you be willing to go to ensure that the folks you hate don’t receive God’s mercy? That’s the question that lies at the heart of the Jonah story. Most people think the whaleis the point, but that’s a distraction. Let’s briefly recall the story. And then I’ll share a fascinating connection with […]
Do Christians Hate Forgiveness? (Are we Jonah?)
Not long ago, the president announced an initiative to relieve some of the pressure of escalating student loan costs and predatory practices with a small loan forgiveness program. The response among many Christians has been deeply fascinating. Social media posts on the subject have mile-long threads of replies. Strident articles are being published. People have […]
Lent Reflection – Do I have a need for God to be violent?
We’re up to the 35th day of Lent. Luke 23:33-38 is today’s scripture. Jesus is crucified. Jesus forgives.
Lent Reflection – Am I escalating retribution or forgiveness?
Today is the 9th day of Lent. Today’s scripture is Matthew 18:21-35, a teaching and parable about forgiveness. Sounds great, but it’s not as simple as it sounds.
OK, I admit it. I hate forgiveness too.
When my children turned 5 and 6, I started re-living my own elementary school experiences. Apparently comebacks haven’t changed much in 35 years. Call someone a name and you’ll hear, “I know you are, but what am I?” Mention that odor wafting in, someone will chime, “Whoever smelt it, dealt it!” Blame someone for something, […]