Tilt-a-World

Shalom!

I think Diana Butler Bass writing for Sojourners (see link)

http://blog.beliefnet.com/godspolitics/2007/09/american-christendom-rip-by-di.html

is on target: as some of these leaders of a more Right Wing faith expression pass from the scene, it will be easier to see what's coming. Maybe. [A couple of weeks ago Carmen Porco preached at Madison's First Baptist Church and lifted up an image that has stuck with me. We need each other. A bird flies with a right wing and a left wing; with only one, not so much. He suggested that God is the body that flies with both wings, and if we want the flight to be true and effective, we need both wings. How do we manage this today in the Body of Christ?]

I suspect that many of the congregations in our nation(s) worship in a traditional or some sort of blended style. Is this because such a style (and somewhat consequent theology) is correct? Is it because that's what we pastors know and are comfortable with? Is it because many of the main supporters (read: "givers") of our congregations are older and more comfortable with what they have gotten used to?

This is not an issue for me if the bottom line of congregations is outward-focused: how does the body of Christ constituted as the XYZ Church in Anytown, World serve those in need in the larger community? If any congregation engages only in navel-gazing and lint-picking, then there is a problem! A caring congregation can worship in a variety of ways.

But I wonder: how do we (congregations) and we (pastors) set a vision that keeps pace with much of what is going on around us in politics, economics, life style, etc.? I think the fall of Christendom is a good thing, but how are we shaping what will become "church" in the next few years?

And, working pastors, dear friends, how may the rest of us help you?

Shalom!
dave