I was raised in Christianity. I was even a minister's wife, long, long ago. Seeing what it has become has turned me away. Far, far, away. And I thought it was forever.
But John Pavlovitz is a Christian in the unblemished sense, and he is an enticing reminder of what Christianity was originally really intended to be. And his provocative essays offer deep treasures to those of any religion who are willing to self-inquire with honesty.
Of course, all of the religions have a version of the Golden Rule, which is what he is talking about in the essay, but he presents his thoughts in poetic and beautifully crafted ways, always offering gems to those willing to look.
Pavlovitz posted this in February, right before the pandemic took over our thoughts, and my friend, Cheryl, reminded me of it today. It's worth another look - or a first look if you haven't seen it:
Why Do You Stand Behind Cruelty?You are a mystery to me.
I watch you standing there with wide-eyed, breathless adoration, and I simply can't fathom how you ended up there in that spot, what it is you're feeling in that moment, how this has become a voice you feel affinity with.
Why are you here?
I'd never stand behind someone who makes fun of stutterers.
I'd never stand behind someone who uses a person's physical appearance as a slur.
I'd never stand behind someone who speaks about women as though they are things.
I'd never stand behind someone who mocks people with disabilities.
I'd never stand behind someone who exploits racial and ethnic stereotypes.
I'd never choose such a person as a friend, let alone choose them to make decisions regarding hundreds of millions of people or to represent me in the world or to shape the place my children call home, and the reason has nothing at all to do with politics.
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