For all my whining, complaining, and pointing out what I see that's wrong, I do see some things in the institutional church (local and otherwise) that I think are good and right. I will hereafter be more intentional about highlighting those things.
I'll start with yesterday in our own church. We had a (limited) Seder meal during worship. It isn't the first time we've done it, but it was again meaningful to a lot of people, myself included. The occasional hacks and gags from children tasting horseradish for the first time, to the "what's that again?" queries from adults only added to the beauty of it. When we do the Seder, it feels like we're participating in communion the way it was intended and taught at that last Passover meal with the Christ.
It definitely was right.
About Me
- Cindy
- Married 26 years to Keith. We're parents to a fantastic 12 year old whom I homeschool. We live in the country about 25 miles south of Montgomery, Alabama. We have a horse named Wrangler and a dog named Mickey. Keith and I currently lead worship music at our church.
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6 comments:
That's so cool, Cindy. Too often the American church has forgotten the Jewish origins of our faith...
That is great.
Jonathan and I were talking about this the other day. We need to embrace the good things and try and change the things that don't work.
We did a messianic seder in our bible study a few years back. A woman who had been raised Jewish but had converted talked to us all about what everything means to traditional Jews and what everything means to messianic Jews. It was really interesting.
And I'm with you on not everything being bad. Always learning, here.
Andy- one of my deepest interests for years has been understanding the Jewish heritage we have. I have barely begun to learn, though.
Lyn, I'm not sure I feel hopeful enough to try to change the bad things anymore, but it can only help to be sure and notice the good things.
Erin, I'd love to attend a Seder led by a messianic Jew! I've just never had the opportunity.
Cindy, we are doing a seder this Sunday with some other followers of Jesus in our home. In the past it has proven to be a moving experience. Your church is to be commended for doing so.
If you are interested in learning more about the Jewish heritage I would recommend "Our Father Abraham: Jewish Roots of the Christian Faith" by Marvin R. Wilson and any book by Kenneth E. Bailey. Bailey lived in the middle east from the time he was a young boy, is fluent in Hebrew, Syriac, Arabic, Aramaic, Greek, and, yes, even English. His understanding of middle eastern culture brings scripture alive in ways we have long lost. In particular, his "Jesus Through Middle Eastern Eyes" and "Finding the Lost: Cultural Keys to Luke 15" are magnificent. His explanation of the parable of the prodigal son (perhaps better, the loving Father) is profoundly enlightening.
He is risen! Our resurrection is assured.
thanks, traveller. i'll be sure to check them out.
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