I love it when someone ties together a variety of theological ideas in order to help many folks "catch it" - again from Michael Battle.
In Tutu's hands, Ubuntu represents the claim that human identities are uniquely made to be cooperative more than competitive. In our God-given differences we are called to realize our need of one another. For Tutu then, racial distinctions matter only in so far as they demonstrate God's phenomenal creation in which there is the telos of interdependency. Instead of a theology of separation or election, God's creation is seen both through the lens of Ubuntu, and African influence, and kenosis, a Christian influence, enabling Tutu to think in terms of how God's image encourages diversity in a hostile world.
God's phenomenal creation is one in which we can truly see God among us and with us and in us and through us. The Eastern Rite has long held onto the theological notion of kenosis - union with Christ. Several years ago I shared a long series that included the work of Finnish scholars who interpret Luther as one who also included this theme of union with Christ in their reading of Luther. Back then as now with Tutu's take on Ubuntu, I find myself more and more willing to find peace and inspiration within the interconnection among God's many people and with God as that all takes place. We work so hard sometimes to divide - it can be quite disheartening. And yet, when we are handed the vision of a people united as one within the body of Christ the notion of divisions become more and more nonsensical.
Connection: How will the differences among us become gifts that we cherish rather than demons that we attempt to exorcise?
When we are taking part in the hostility of the world, O God, settle our hearts so that we will see in the other a gift from you. In those moments, we may then become the beloved community and a part of your peaceable Reign. Amen.
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