My “column” for our church’s e-newsletter tomorrow:
A new pastor is usually pretty skittish with the initial sermons s/he preaches at her/his first church. Is it theologically sound? Will the people fall asleep? Will I be able to do it again next Sunday? Will people actually show up again next Sunday? The people usually do show up again, but they also will let their opinions be known from time to time.
The first time I received a negative letter about one of my sermons, I was a bit taken aback. I don’t remember what I preached about, but I do remember the person telling me in no uncertain terms that one doesn’t mix politics with religion.
It makes people nervous when you bring politics into religion and vice versa. We can all name examples when that particular concoction has been mixed poorly and has done harm. But just because it’s been done unadvisedly doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be done.
Take a look at the prophets of the Old Testament and you’ll see individuals like Jeremiah and Hosea and Amos being called to be the voice of God to people in power. Often these individuals weren’t thrilled about this calling. They sometimes argued or tried to run away from it. But it was clear that God needed someone to speak on behalf of those who weren’t being heard. God still calls many of us to do the same today.
As part of our Church Without Walls initiative, Urban Village is beginning a relationship with Community Renewal Society so that we can make sure that all the children of God–especially those on the margins of our society–have a voice. The first step we’re taking in this relationship is joining others to travel to Springfield and be a witness to legislators on Tuesday, April 24, as we pray and urge decision-makers to listen to those who are too often ignored. Our goal is to have 10 people make the trip. Will you join me and others as we make this journey?
The individuals who make up UVC will not all agree about particular issues that we feel are important. Nor is that our expectation. But we do hope that you will think about individuals in our society who are being treated unjustly and pray whether God might be calling you to speak out on their behalf. You might even be a prophet in disguise.