Facing Into Our False Gods
Rev. Erik Swanson
November 17, 2024
The story of the "Angel with the Torch and the Pail" challenges conventional religious motivations. The angel seeks to destroy the mansions of heaven and extinguish the fires of hell to reveal who truly loves God, not for reward or fear of punishment, but out of genuine love. Richard Rohr emphasizes this paradigm shift, suggesting that true love originates from an experience of the divine and extends inclusively to all. This approach necessitates moving beyond traditional systems, false narratives, and fear-driven obligations to a deeper, transformative understanding of love. It requires inner reorganization and a willingness to embrace discomfort.
Opportunities for Spiritual Growth
Recent political events evoke similar themes. With unsettling developments in government, many feel alarmed. Yet, the author reflects on how these disruptions serve as opportunities for spiritual growth. The temptation to despair can give way to a steadier faith rooted in God’s presence, even amidst chaos. Such moments challenge individuals to examine attachments to outdated beliefs or misconceptions about their nation, relationships, and societal systems. A reference to a scene from The Newsroom critiques America’s inflated self-image, juxtaposing claims of greatness with sobering statistics. This reflection invites deeper scrutiny of national values and calls for greatness defined by justice, equity, and love.
Discomfort as a Teacher
The narrative identifies Donald Trump as embodying the shadow side of America, forcing a confrontation with uncomfortable truths about power and privilege. This reckoning offers a chance for collective healing and justice, encouraging people to face reality rather than cling to illusions. The contemplative life teaches that God exists in the real, not in human-made fantasies or false ideals. As such, discomfort becomes a teacher, revealing areas where growth is needed and where reconciliation with God and others can occur.
God’s Reconciliation
Paul’s message of reconciliation in Christ serves as a foundation. God’s work through Jesus draws humanity into right relationship, offering grace even amidst flaws and failures. Moreover, believers are entrusted with this message of reconciliation, tasked with embodying and spreading it, even in challenging conversations with those who hold differing views. To live out this calling, one must let go of false gods and narratives—idealized visions of country, family, or divine workings—and embrace the transformative potential of discomfort.
Becoming a New Creation in Christ
This transformation involves recognizing the deeper realities of societal issues, personal relationships, and spiritual life. Political and societal challenges can reveal systemic flaws and provoke necessary change, prompting individuals to reassess their priorities and values. Each moment of discomfort holds the potential to uncover falsehoods, teach profound lessons, and inspire growth toward becoming a "new creation" in Christ. The ultimate goal is to align more closely with God’s vision for justice, love, and renewal in the world. By confronting and releasing what no longer serves, individuals and communities can embrace the new and transformative work of the Spirit, embodying hope and change.
Amen.
