Opinion
In What Direction Is U.S. Christianity Headed?
When a former U.S. president thinks he is the closest thing to Jesus, his followers must question what direction Christianity is going in. When Jesus and Pilate stood before a crowd, it wasn’t for a photo opportunity.
Look Back | Love All Thy Neighbors, Not Just Those Like Us
What is the relationship between Christian identity on the one hand and national identity or affiliation on the other? Does God care which side of a border someone is born on?
Why It Is Time for Desperate Righteousness
Many speakers offered inspiration and challenge at the 2022 “Space for Grace” conference organized by the American Baptist Home Mission Societies. While we must speak truth to power, we must also speak truth to the powerless.
Don’t Have a Cow!
A fundamentalist Christian farmer in Texas shipped five red heifers to Israel. The reason is both straightforward and complex, relying on a particular theological framework and interpretation of the Bible.
The Challenge of Living Faithfully in a “Monetized” World
A collection of parables in Luke’s gospel that focus on the nature and challenges of discipleship have been the focus of recent Lectionary texts. They offer much “food for thought” in our increasingly “monetized” world.
Paying Attention to the ‘Musts’ of Jesus
What are the things that Jesus said his disciples “must” do? Charles R. Alexander reflects on this question in his book ‘Necessary Christianity,’ offering insight about the true meaning of Christian discipleship.
Seeking Solace and Solitude While Working for Justice
Tears welled up on a recent morning walk, as a song brought to mind the joyful memories of family holidays by a river in east Texas. It was a reminder that we should seek solace, and solitude, as we work for justice.
Will the U.S. Affirm That ‘No One Is Above the Law’?
“No one is above the law.” A former president is presenting a significant challenge to this view for the first time in America’s history. Will the nation affirm this longstanding principle?
Commitment to Freedom and Democracy More Important Than Ever
A movement is underway in the U.S. that is seeking to fundamentally alter several key institutions across our nation. From school boards to voting process to nationalizing religion, this movement is toxic and destructive to freedom and democracy.
Sharing the Gospel of Radical Inclusion With Samford University
Over the course of this long and arduous journey, there’s one phrase I continue to hear in numerous variations from Samford University: “We love LGBTQ students, but…” It’s well past time for that to change.
Look Back | Christian Nationalism Growing
The wall of separation between church and state is denied by some Christians who have created a false, alternative history of the U.S. These Christian fundamentalists want to place Bible and the Ten Commandments above the U.S. Constitution.
Contrasting Theologies: Assimilation Versus Wholeness
Lenore Three Stars, an Oglala Lakota leader and advocate for Indigenous causes, spoke as Nevertheless She Preached 2022 in Austin, Texas, this week. Her insights and observations raised questions for me about Christian faith and practice.
How DACA Became ‘La Jaula de Oro,’ The Golden Cage
I have been a beneficiary of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals for eight years. I lived many years feeling ashamed and hiding my status. Once I found a vocal community, I felt inspired and became empowered.
Sex, Human Rights and Biblical Economics
Many can recall sermons on human sexuality, but how many have you heard on economic inequity and unjust interest rates? One might conclude that the former is more frequently discussed in the Bible, but you’d be wrong.
‘Cosiendo’ as an Act of Love and Justice
The sound of a sewing machine echoes in my memory. It was a lullaby for me growing up. My grandmother used it to create incredible garments. Her work was an act of love and of justice
An Awful Calculus Facing Parents and Children
My 14-year-old son participated in some awful calculus today. He, along with other children and parents, face this circumstance far too often. The trauma and helplessness remain far after the situation ends.