
No matter how far humans think they have advanced, there is nothing quite like drastic weather or natural disasters to humble us. Part of our nation is experiencing a polar vortex, and part of California has been burned to the ground. The images are startling and heartbreaking! Although privileged people undoubtedly fare better during emergency situations, there is a point when the playing field is level. Poor people and the wealthy are difficult to distinguish when they are evacuating with only the clothes on their backs.
I do not believe we serve a God who sends disasters our way to test us or humble us. I do believe, however, they are opportunities to remember we are not completely in control. Our idols of money, power, and success ultimately cannot save us. We are given much agency by God to shape the world (Gen. 2:15), and we are mere mortals gazing up at the stars wondering who we are in God’s great plan (Psalm 8).
Challenging times should teach us compassion. How many of us could be similarly affected if the disasters of life were to come our way? We never delight in someone’s pain or believe they have received their comeuppance. CEO’s and movie stars in Los Angeles are made of the same flesh and blood as those living in campers in Western North Carolina. They are made of the same star dust that make up all our bodies.
Furthermore, today, Monday, January 20, 2025, is the inauguration of our 47th President of the United States AND the holiday when we remember the life and teachings of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. However you choose to honor this day, I hope you will join me in praying that our nation will not turn back the clock on the social progress we have (slowly) made in inclusivity, justice, and compassion. Pay special attention to your loved ones and neighbors. People are feeling vulnerable and might be afraid to voice their concerns. If you hear ugly, threatening rhetoric being uttered, be an advocate, a voice of reason and love. “We” (women, people of color, the LGBTQIA+ community, and immigrants) need you. “These people” are part of my family, part of your family, and part of God’s family.
This Sunday, we will hear an extended metaphor where Paul says that the church is a body with many parts (1 Cor. 12: 12-31a). Try to be the eyes and ears of Christ to observe and respond to those in pain. Also, remember one of Paul’s points is it takes all of us working together to create a unified body. We have need of one another. No part of the body is dispensable. That is both the good news and challenging news.
Stephanie
Rev. Dr. Stephanie Moon
Pastor
Commenti