Hi again. I’m back. More bewildered than ever about these times, but back.
During my hiatus, I wrote my own little manifesto countering Christian Nationalism and the whole Trump “thing.” I would put it out there, but what good would that do? I can’t fight dopamine addiction to rage by citing facts, although I’ll share one tidbit about the war with Iran.
“Christian nationalists are supporting the Iran war by framing it as a holy war, blending political goals with biblical prophecy. They often cast it as a battle between good and evil, with some interpreting it as a step toward Armageddon and the return of Christ.”
It does sound end-times-ish, but here’s the thing. I’m not a New Testament scholar, but I’ve asked people who are. (Get the opinion of your local New Testament scholar.) The United States doesn’t appear to be IN the end times narrative. Are Christian Nationalists factoring our demise into their war-mongering…or are they taking a more sober approach?
But moving on, here’s what I want to focus on. (Are you sitting down?) I want to focus on Love. Joy. Peace. Patience. Kindness. Goodness. Faithfulness. Gentleness. Self-control. (Gal. 5:22-23)
What I mean is, the closer I get to the teachings of Jesus, the more I feel all of the above. It’s so counterintuitive to the “feelings” of these times. I don’t feel rage toward my MAGA/Christian Nationalist friends and family. I feel a softness. (And okay, bewilderment.)
Is there a place for “rage against the machine” and courageous action? ABSOLUTELY. We just need to focus our rage on “the machine” that’s causing all the horrors and discord in the first place.
“Hate doesn’t drive out hate. Only love can do that.” MLK
I’m an activist, but if I let hate have its way, I’ll lose. I think love is the one thing Trump hasn’t factored in. Love for God. Love for our fellow citizens, especially the poor and those who are suffering. Love for our country.
This motivates me more than anything else.
And I am an activist.
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