First They Came After ...

This Martin Niemöller (1892–1984) quote has been running through my head after the events of this weekend. Not really sure what else to add, save it has always been biblical to not only welcome but also to look after the sojourner, the widow and orphan, in fact the poor and vulnerable. So I continue to reflect upon the following quote, and to think about how we treated the Japanese-Americans in our midst during WWII (which was a particular issue on the West Coast). Then to my surprise and delight, we find Fred Korematsu as the google doodle today.

As we live in interesting times, may we all keep looking, speaking and acting with grace toward one another.

Blessed be,

Joel

Here's the quote:

First they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not a Socialist.
Then they came for the Trade Unionists, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not a Trade Unionist.
Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not a Jew.
Then they came for me—and there was no one left to speak for me.

Where Do We Look For the Kin(g)dom of God

This illustration is one my friend and college Roger uses. Each circle (as can be seen) refers to a specific part of the human experience: there is the Economic Realm, the Environmental Realm and the Community Realm. Each of these Realms overlaps the others to a lesser or greater extent. How much they overlap, how much they "should" overlap, and/or are any of these Realms actually outside the influence of the others (i.e. independent of the others) are questions worth pondering. 

I want to draw your attention to the center section, on which all three circles/Realms overlap. In my friend Roger's model this has the potential to be the Kin(g)dom of God. In essence, the Kin(g)dom of God influences Economic, Environmental, and Community. Just because we notice overlap, however, doesn't imply that the Kin(g)dom of God is there. So it is imperative that we ask what the King(d)om of God looks like. Are some of the following characteristics: justice, compassion, loving, caring, equality, not crucifying others? What else would you add? In no way do I see what I've mentioned as the only characteristics. 

How then do we live in a world that actively crucifying others? 'Not my country!,' I can hear you say. Really?  (To use one Realm as an example) Economic prosperity is often built on the backs of others. Some religious groups have felt that there is no way to live so closely with empire and so love apart (the Amish are one example among many). Most of us however strive to live as a part but separate, bringing the Kin(g)dom into the empire (or to put it another way, attempting to transform the empire into the Kin(g)dom) like yeast hidden in bread. But it is tough. (Tough to do, the "bread" is incredible!)

So this week's reflection isn't to give any answers, but to get you pondering how you are living your life. How are you bringing the Kin(g)dom into fruition? Where are you finding the Kin(g)dom hiding? 

Blessed be,
Joel

An Errant Circumnavigation - Russell Heath

Here is a fun video to start the new year with.

Enjoy and Blessed be,

Joel