Peppercorn

I Have a Confession

I Have a Confession

Our faith practice focus in June is Mercy and Justice. Of all of our faith practices, this is the one is likely to make us the most uncomfortable. My confession is that I share this discomfort, even as my heart holds dear how critical these practices are.

I think we’re OK with mercy, but the Justice part is hard. We get caught up in the confusion of Justice with social agendas, political platforms, and such. I find very helpful this description of Mercy and Justice that Anne Delgado posted on our website:

Justice and mercy often go hand in hand in Scripture. When we experience mercy, we can receive or offer compassion and love regardless of merit. Biblical justice encourages us to go a step further and live selflessly to restore justice or fairness to those who are unrightfully hurt or wronged. Together, mercy and justice help us establish ourselves and our neighbors in right relationship with God.

The American Experiment

The American Experiment

One of my favorite ways to mark the Fourth of July is to listen to NPR’s annual reading of the Declaration of Independence. With a stirring musical backdrop and diverse voices, they bring the text to life with the urgency and determination of the day. It's a nine-minute listen and is worth your time. Thank of how those nine minutes shaped hopes and dreams around the world. I promise your time will be worth it!

Independence Day is a remarkable day. It is not just a celebration of the founding of an independent nation, but a declaration of values and aspirations that were (and still are) far from universally appreciated.

Independence Day is one of two national holy days in our liturgical calendar. The other is Thanksgiving Day. It is always right for a church to pray for the nation, but what does it mean to elevate a national holiday to the ranks of holy days commemorating key moments of our faith?