They'll know us by our love??

The readings this week were profoundly sad for me. Not because they dealt with issues such as sickness, dying and death, but because Christians once were known by ‘how they love each other’ (Cooke and Macy 149). There is still much being done in the world for good by Christians, but our hatred and judgmentalism of others overshadows everything we do. At a time when the whole world is reeling from horrible violence against innocents, when the earth itself is growing frail, we are spending more time and money here in the States on our election battles than on caring for the poor and the marginalized – it is estimated that over $5 billion will be spent on the 2016 presidential campaign. But it’s not just the money, it’s the pervasive attitude. Christians are still on the front lines when catastrophe happens. Catholic Charities, the Salvation Army, Texas Baptist Men, World Vision – and on and on. These agencies are known for their swift and merciful help, as well as the day to day sustenance they provide. Christians are not really known ‘by their love’ anymore, though. What happened to us?

 

Cooke and Macy noted that we live at a “time in history when medical professionals have unprecedented ability to deal with human diseases” (153). At the same time, however, they note that we no longer have adequate rituals in place to help those who are suffering, such as the caregivers or the aging. Our communities are built for those with mobility or an agile intellect – it often takes a car to buy groceries; a computer to complete almost any form; cable or satellite to listen to the news or weather. How many of us still write letters or notes? We take meals after a funeral, but what about in the 10^th month of a long-term illness such as dementia? I don’t remember to do this. I rely on my pastor to remind me of those who are homebound or ailing. I leave it to the elderly in the church to care for the other elderly. What rituals do we actively need to start now in order to better care for each other? To keep people from being invisible or, worse yet, forgotten completely? How long will it be before I can sing ‘They will know we are Christians by our love’ and not cringe at the hypocrisy?

Cooke, Bernard and Macy, Gary. Christian Symbol and Ritual: An Introduction. New York: Oxford University Press, 2005. Print.

http://thehill.com/blogs/ballot-box/presidential-races/230318-the-5-billion-campaign

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