Drive Through Salvation

One of the biggest problems in America and probably many other places is that our religious communities have failed us. The old versions are dying out for lack of membership. Hellfire and brimstone and sectarianism in addition to misusing funds and abuse of children (and adults!) aren’t attractive to people today. The hypocrisy is astounding and it’s easier for most people to just…stop participating.

What is seemingly doing well are megachurches and “non-denominational” churches. Why? They promote a simple version of Christianity. Everything is in the bible, just read it. And your eternal soul’s future is easily set by saying magic words that affirm your sinnership and acceptance of Jesus as your lord and savior. No details on what that means, just assurance that you won’t burn forever. It’s the most important thing.

Few of these people seem to know anything about the Bible’s calls for social justice and accountability. The Bible is problematic, but there are some good nuggets of wisdom. Those require us to do some work, and it’s easier to just get our salvation to go.

For me, the most important religious topic is ethics. How do you live your life? How do you engage with the rest of the world? Are you responsible or selfish? Do you care about truth or do you prefer someone else does the thinking for you?

None of us is perfect, and we all fail in some ways to live up to our ideals. But as I so often tell seminary students, awareness is a massive tool. Being aware of your feelings, your activations, your prejudice means you can stop and make a choice instead of just reacting.

Our choices matter and they add up. None of the billionaires or big corporations can exist without us. Be aware, be mindful and be responsible.