Our church is in the middle of a wonderful transition to a Postmodern paradigm marked by many encouraging things. Among them is the demotion of reason (some may say truth) and the elevation of beauty. What does this mean, you may ask? Let me give you a good illustration - or at least give my best shot at it.
Today in Spiritual Formation we listened to a eulogy delivered by the former president of Asbury College, Dr. Dennis Kinlaw. He was memorializing the life of Dr. Caruth (spelling?) who was the previous Prayer and Spiritual Formation professor, and in fact, the first such professor in a Protestant Seminary.
Dr. Kinlaw's words were gracious and honoring. Without ever having known about Dr. Caruth's life, his ministry, his passions or his calling we came closer to knowing the type of Child of God he strove to be, endeavored to be, encouraged others to be. He was truly intimate with God - a true God hearer who lived life for the sake of others.
Today in chapel we heard a lecture delivered by Dr. Francis Watson of Durham University in England. The comment that links to this story was quite off-the-cuff (especially in a lecture setting like we had). Of the sacrificial system he was describing at the time, he said, "the priests were given the flesh of the burnt offering to eat and God was given the aroma."
I parallel these sacrifices in my mind, and with that of Jesus' sacrifice. God was pleased with the perfect sacrifices brought to the altar, with his son's body, anointed by a prostitute for burial, and with the life given to service to himself through intimacy and service to others.
I was inspired by these thoughts to think of the sort of bride I am preparing to be for Christ's return, both in the respect that I am his bride the same way the church I serve is his bride. Let me be the sort of mate befitting the Prince.
No longer Gomer. No longer Gomer.
Is there a thing beneath the sun that strives with Thee my heart to share? Ah, tear it thence and reign alone the God of every motion there!
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1 comment:
Eric,
I am concerned by your description of the church's transition to a postmodern paradigm as wonderful. I would be one that would characterize the transition of the church to a Postmodern paradigm as one that is stepping away from the absolute truth that can be known from the study of God's Word. I am concerned that this steeping away is actually a maneuver to avoid offending believers as well as unbelievers, with the truth. The assertion that no one can claim to know truth is neither humble nor thoughtful, but arrogant. We need as a church to recognize who we are and what we are, and that is sinners saved by grace. We are nothing outside of Christ. He purchased us with his blood and expects complete allegiance and obedience. He requires us as believers to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and to follow Him. I see the postmodern influence in the church as one that elevates self, is uncommitted and follows the world. Often in scripture we are warned about false prophets among us. We need to be careful as believers to verify any claim or idea with scripture. I miss you Eric and hope to see you when you come home next.
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