Deacons Corner
Household
In many of his books and lectures, John Dominic Crossan distinguishes between two visions of God in the Bible, loving and just versus angry and violent. (Think Ten Commandments vs. the genocide of Joshua in the Hebrew Bible, our Old Testament. Think Jesus of the gospels vs. the Book of Revelation in our New Testament. Think the historical Jesus and his followers against the reality of Rome and the collaborating Temple elite.)
Crossan frequently likens the Biblical God of justice and love to the head of a household who has to make sure everyone has enough in order for the household to run smoothly. Reading his recent book RENDER UNTO CAESAR, I thought of my own “household” and pondered how far its mutual support system reaches.
I’m a widow living alone. but still part of a familial household of children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and assorted relations whom my mother-in-law used to call “in-laws and outlaws.” These are spread throughout New England, the United States, Europe, and even one in New Zealand. Each has something to contribute and would find a way to help in time of need. There are friends, some close and some far away, making me feel a part of the world around me. My church family, both the FFC and the wider church, contributes to spiritual needs and opportunities for service far beyond personal reach. My Westar family with members in many states and countries, provides intellectual stimulation well-grounded in progressive Christian principles. Community, state, and country, despite all their flaws, provide a dependable safety net both at home and when traveling. Other families, not often in contact, are still a great part of my life and who I am.
This is the household Jesus taught about, an expansive one of mutual love and justice, a help and a shield instead of a sword, there to protect when difficulties and even violence threaten to disrupt safety and comfort. There to give in good times and to receive when times are bad. Who is part of your household?
Lyn Pickhover, Householder