Racial Justice
The country is fed up with racist business as usual. Where do we go from here? How do we keep Liberty’s torch of freedom and inclusion lighting our way?
We must confront our country's history of racial injustice to repair its legacy
The events surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic and the most recent lynchings of Breonna Taylor, Tony McDade, Ahmaud Arbery, George Floyd have unleashed a fury in the USA, a country that is fed up with racist business as usual. The pandemic has revealed the gross inequities that are part of an ongoing exploitative economic and educational system. Where do we go from here?
Seeking racial equity for all
None of us can be free until we end the suffering caused by racism and white supremacy
Marcia’s question is: Where do we go from here? People are upset and out in the streets exercising their First Amendment rights, and justly so. I’m delighted about it, actually.
However, what happens in the aftermath as the country reopens and more people return to work. How do we keep Liberty’s torch of freedom and inclusion brightly lighting our way? What is the difference between equality and justice?
In the following months we will find out if the outrage over racism and police brutality will sustain a movement of reform, of lament, and of hope. Join our mailing list and find out how you can be a part of the solution.
Why do we need Political Theology?
Progressive Christians remain relatively quiet in the public square, even though the federal constitution protects our speech. Compared to more traditional corners of Christ’s vineyard, we fail to respond and assert our theology. The reasons for this are varied, yet we need to express our theology clearly and proactively whenever and wherever possible.
Christ calls us to work for social justice, just as he did. We interpret the Gospel as inclusive and compassionate. As a result, we must respect others especially when they differ from us or need our help. Our theology of radical hospitality welcomes and respects all people. Therefore, we have a duty, if we call ourselves Christians, to spread the Good News of love, peace, and compassion. Political Theology is essential today, perhaps now more than other. It cuts through the divisiveness with a message of love and hope.
Framing our theological discussions
Unfortunately, we usually react to an opposing theological understanding. Instead, we must frame our theological discussions. For example, Jesus told Peter to “Feed my sheep, feed my lambs, feed my sheep,” after Jesus rose from the grave. What does feeding Christ’s lambs and sheep look like today?
Caging children and infants fails to feed or nourish them. Detaining refugees indefinitely does not constitute caring for them. Consequently, when we engage in political theology, we offer the public another viewpoint to consider. It is not about getting into big arguments with opponents, because the foundation of a democracy is a free exchange of ideas.