CRISIS OF FAITH
In past times of turmoil and chaos, the faithful would often rely on their firmly rooted sacred beliefs. But what if those beliefs are part of the problem? What if they are facilitating the destruction of our very democracy?
American Christianity -specifically Christian nationalism– has damaged America in profound ways, causing a severe crisis of faith that’s driving people FROM the teachings of Jesus. Christianity is being hijacked by grifters and hypocrites, the very people Jesus challenged. He challenged the authority of the rich ruling class, called out their hypocrisy and greed, and delivered the unpopular message of empathy and compassion. Christian Nationalists are moving in the exact opposite direction of Christ’s teachings, ignoring the truth that Jesus was a radical whom they crucified for his message. They’ve even gone so far as to call empathy a sin!
Far-right fundamentalists and political pariahs are teaming together –not in the name of Jesus, love, or peace but to push political and social agendas that are all about getting money, social power, and control of other Americans.
Our religious leaders have been silent sycophants for far too long while Christian nationalism has become the norm in our country. Even authentic, faith-based organizations have been silent, so they too bear the burden of blame. Christian nationalists are making a mockery of the true Christian faith, and too many churches and congregations are just letting it happen.
Not every American reading this is a Christian, which should give you pause to reflect on the separation of church and state enshrined in our Constitution. Now, that First Amendment guarantee has devolved into using the church to manipulate the people to do the state’s bidding.
I challenge true Christians to speak out against the hijacking of their faith and their churches. Christians are called to be examples of love in the world – ambassadors of Jesus – not the purveyors of intolerance, hate, and damnation. Every era has its crisis in the name of religion. This is ours. What will true believers do? Only our authentic Christian voices and actions will tell.