Center of Transformation

      The fourth chapter of Ray Vander Laan’s book “Cultures in Conflict” continues to explore the discussion of the discernment of the Lord’s Supper.  Last week, we analyzed and highlighted some of the issues that plagued the fledgling churches of Corinth—the members made distinctions among those who were considered winners and losers.  Ironically and unfortunately, the winners were those who embraced the prevailing values of the immoral culture of Corinth.  Vander Laan noted that the “gospel has always attracted people who struggle with life’s challenges, whether those struggles be hunger, loneliness, disease, oppression, the emptiness of a life without purpose or meaning, or the despair of being trapped in a class system they cannot escape.”    

      These words helped introduce Vander Laan’s conceptualization of the transformation of the culture that was made possible by the proclamation and embrace of the counter cultural values of Christians.  While the importance of individuals’ decisions to follow Christ begins the process of change, the ultimate transformation of each individual impacts the broader culture. Vander Laan asks somewhat simply, ‘What difference does it make to the mission of making God known when righteousness, love, compassion, and acceptance are lived out by only an individual or two in contrast to being the normal behavior of an entire community of Jesus followers?”

       Although religious beliefs are believed to be both personal and private, those who are transformed by the love of Christ are compelled to exhibit that change in their interactions with others.  The change or renewal that we feel is revealed in our regard for ourselves and others.  The letter of 1 John 3 includes these powerful words ‘Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth’ (v 18).  

      As we prepare to receive the Eucharist, we carefully examine our motives and our attention to those who hunger not only for bread, but also for justice and compassion.  We are looking forward to seeing you in worship and class.  

In Christ,
Jon McCoy