Wednesday, July 23, 2014

Redeemer Devotions for July 23, 2014

Adventures... in Hope - Redeemer Devotions 

 

The Reign of God as victory. If you have any comments - adebelak@redeemerluth.com .

 

The Reign of God as victory is - as James Alison notes - the creation of a new 'we'. Maybe that is why we never pursue that kind of victory. It means we will not come out just as we have always been. It means we must give up something or change something for this kind of victory. And yet, that is why we so often go to war - to make sure we never lose anything or have to give up what we claim is ours. The Reign of God as victory is so alien of a reality, that when we see signs of it appearing in the everyday world, we wonder what is wrong. If a diplomat presses for dialogue and that dialogue counts on a depth of reconciliation that will transform both sides and make for a new relationship never before practiced, that diplomat will be shunned and mocked. It is unrealistic in our world. The Reign of God as victory does not seek to find what is realistic - it seeks to find what will heal and make all things new. A realistic resolution to war and violence usually means - how can we still hold onto our power - our way - our wants. At that point the sides make bargains that are just waiting to be broken so that the machines of violence and war will be able to reengage The Reign of God as victory is not bargain based. It not about finding that onto which we can still have a hold. It is about finding how both sides can let go and step into an alien future of trust and reconciliation. It takes courage on all sides.

 

O God of love and new life, encourage us to pursue the grand victory of your Reigning peace.  Amen.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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