Pastor's Pen: Interesting Times

“May you live in interesting times.”

These seem like words that might be spoken at a graduation ceremony or a champagne toast. However, “interesting” isn’t necessarily a good thing. I am told that the words are a Chinese curse. Whether it is or not, “interesting” can be overwhelming. Still, no one can doubt that we live in interesting times.

In my adult lifetime, the Berlin Wall fell, the Soviet Union crumbled, the World Trade Center fell in a terrorist attack, and rioters stormed the Capitol Building. If you’re older, your list of "interesting" events could fill this newsletter. Together, we have seen incredible social, cultural, political, and technological changes. Some have been welcome improvements. Others have left us frustrated.

In a few days, we face an important election. Some of you will vote for Kamala Harris. Some will vote for Donald Trump. A few may even vote for a third party. Some may even stay home this election. Whether you vote for the winner or not, the deep divisions of this “interesting time” will not disappear when the votes are counted. Our civil society will continue to limp along into a new administration. It’s not inconceivable that things will get worse rather than better. Despite having a vote, many of us feel powerless.

In college, a philosophy professor of mine once spoke of our desperation this way: "Think of a dog tied to a cart. The cart is rolling down a hill. The dog can choose to trot alongside the cart or be dragged by it.” This professor argued that life is only anxiety and misery.

However, as Christians, we live the alternative. We proclaim a God who binds up the brokenhearted and provides release for the captives. In Jesus Christ, our eyes are opened to the wonders of God’s love. God calls us to enter history. We care for the least. We stand and witness to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Although history may try to crush God’s movement in the world, it cannot be overcome. After all, we believe in resurrection. In the Great Commission, Jesus tells his disciples that "all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me" (Matt 28:18). As a result, we do not live in constant anxiety. We do not need to be consumed by the "interesting times" around us. God remains God.

In this election, some will be pleased by the outcome. Others will be disappointed. Nevertheless, life will continue. God’s work of love and peace will continue despite the opposition. One thing is clear. "Interesting times" are here to stay. As Christians, we stand without fear. Despite our own divisions, Christ remains victorious.

Grace & Peace,

James