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Essay

“Kin-dom” vs. “Kingdom”: A Comprehensive Examination

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In today’s theological discourse, there’s an unmistakable momentum towards adopting more inclusive language, echoing the broader societal trends towards diversity and inclusivity. Among the myriad proposals sparking vigorous debates, one issue is the suggestion to replace the traditional term “Kingdom” with the more inclusive “Kin-dom.” The driving force behind this proposal? To introduce a gender-neutral term that emphasizes the familial bond between God and humanity. However, before we delve into the intricacies of this proposed linguistic shift, let’s take a moment to unpack the significant questions—both theological and linguistic—that this change brings to the forefront. So, buckle up as we embark on an exploration of these multifaceted issues and endeavor to identify alternative solutions that not only uphold inclusivity but also remain firmly rooted in our theological heritage.

Linguistic Conundrums and Conceptual Depth

To kick things off, let’s tackle the linguistic quandary presented by the term “Kin-dom.” Unlike its more established counterpart, “Kingdom,” “Kin-dom” is not a term commonly found in everyday language. Introducing it into theological discourse may lead to confusion or ambiguity among those unfamiliar with the term. Moreover, language plays a pivotal role in shaping our understanding of theological concepts, and the introduction of unfamiliar terms may hinder effective communication within theological circles.

Furthermore, while “Kin-dom” gestures towards the familial dimension of God’s relationship with believers, it fails to fully encapsulate the depth and complexity of the concept of God’s Kingdom. While “Kingdom” encompasses notions of familial bonds, it also conveys the broader ideas of God’s sovereignty, authority, and rule over creation. By contrast, “Kin-dom” inadvertently dilutes the theological significance of God’s all-encompassing power and authority.

Navigating Theological Terrain

Beyond linguistic considerations, the proposed replacement of “Kingdom” with “Kin-dom” raises profound theological questions. While it is undeniable that God welcomes believers into the divine family, focusing solely on kinship risks overlooking the broader implications of God’s Kingdom. God’s Kingdom encompasses not only familial bonds but also principles of justice, righteousness, and the transformative work of God in the world.

Moreover, the term “Kingdom” carries connotations of God’s active rule and authority, highlighting God’s sovereignty over creation and all aspects of life. In contrast, “Kin-dom” inadvertently emphasizes the relational aspects of God’s Kingdom at the expense of its authoritative dimensions. Thus, the substitution of “Kingdom” with “Kin-dom” raises significant concerns about the theological completeness and accuracy of the term.

Exploring Alternative Formulations

Given these theological and linguistic considerations, it is imperative to explore alternative formulations that preserve both inclusivity and theological richness. One such proposal is the use of “God’s reign and family.” This phrase integrates the notions of God’s sovereignty and familial relationship with humanity, offering a comprehensive understanding of God’s redemptive purposes.

“God’s reign and family” emphasizes not only the authority and lordship of God but also the intimate connection between God and God’s people. It acknowledges the multifaceted nature of the relationship between God and humanity, encompassing both God’s rule over creation and God’s invitation to participate in the divine family. By incorporating both “reign” and “family” into the terminology, we affirm the full breadth and depth of God’s redemptive work in the world.

Furthermore, another alternative worth considering is the use of “God’s reign and kinship.” This formulation synthesizes the concepts of God’s sovereignty and familial relationship, addressing concerns about linguistic clarity while underscoring the intimate bond between God and humanity. “Reign” underscores God’s authority and lordship, while “kinship” highlights the familial aspect of God’s relationship with believers. Together, they offer a nuanced and comprehensive understanding of God’s redemptive purposes.

Delving into Historical and Biblical Perspectives

A thorough examination of the historical and biblical perspectives on the concept of God’s Kingdom provides valuable insights into the significance of linguistic choices in theological discourse. Throughout the history of Christianity, the term “Kingdom” has served as a central motif, embodying the hope for God’s ultimate reign and the fulfillment of divine purposes in creation.

In the Old Testament, the idea of God’s Kingdom is rooted in the covenantal relationship between God and God’s chosen people. The Hebrew word “malkut” conveys the notion of God’s rule and authority, emphasizing God’s sovereignty over Israel and all nations. The prophets proclaimed the coming of God’s Kingdom as a time of justice, righteousness, and peace, when God’s reign would be established in its fullness. As Isaiah 9:7 proclaims, “Great will be his authority, and there shall be endless peace for the throne of David and his kingdom. He will establish and uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time onward and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.” (NRSVUE, emphasis added).

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ proclaimed the arrival of God’s Kingdom as the central message of his ministry. Through his teachings and parables, Jesus elucidated the nature of God’s Kingdom as a realm of mercy, forgiveness, and transformation. Moreover, Jesus’ use of the term “Kingdom” reflected the socio-political context of first-century Palestine, where the Roman Empire exerted its dominance over the Jewish people. By proclaiming the Kingdom of God, Jesus challenged the oppressive structures of the Roman Empire and offered an alternative vision of God’s reign based on justice, compassion, and equality.

In light of this rich theological and biblical tradition, the significance of the term “Kingdom” cannot be understated. It encapsulates the hope for God’s ultimate victory over sin and death and the establishment of God’s reign of peace and justice. Any proposed replacement for “Kingdom” must be evaluated in light of this historical and biblical understanding, ensuring that it retains the theological depth and richness of the concept.

Practical Implications for Theological Discourse

The debate over the use of “Kin-dom” versus “Kingdom” has practical implications for theological discourse in various contexts, including academia, worship, and Christian education. The language we use shapes our theological understanding and informs our practices and beliefs. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the implications of linguistic choices on theological discourse and the broader Christian community.

In academic settings, theologians and scholars grapple with complex theological concepts and engage in rigorous theological debates. The terminology they employ plays a crucial role in shaping theological discourse and conveying theological ideas with clarity and precision. Any proposed changes to theological terminology, such as replacing “Kingdom” with “Kin-dom,” must be subjected to rigorous scrutiny and evaluation to ensure their theological accuracy and coherence.

In worship and liturgical contexts, the language used in prayers, hymns, and liturgies profoundly shapes the worship experience and the formation of faith. The term “Kingdom” has been central to Christian worship for millennia, conveying the hope for God’s reign and the fulfillment of divine purposes in the world. Any attempt to replace “Kingdom” with “Kin-dom” must be approached with caution, considering its implications for worship and theological formation.

Moreover, in Christian education and discipleship, the language we use to communicate theological concepts has a significant impact on the formation of faith and the understanding of God’s redemptive purposes. The term “Kingdom” provides a rich theological framework for exploring the nature of God’s reign and its implications for discipleship and mission. Any proposed alternatives, such as “God’s reign and family” or “God’s reign and kinship,” must be carefully integrated into educational curricula and discipleship programs to ensure their theological coherence and accessibility.

Metric Convenience versus Theological Significance

While it may be convenient to use words like “Kin-dom” metrically to replace “Kingdom” in hymns or poetic expressions, theological meaning should take precedence over metrical convenience. Hymns and theological texts serve not only as expressions of worship but also as vehicles for conveying theological truth. Therefore, it is essential that the language used accurately reflects the depth and richness of theological concepts such as God’s Kingdom. While adjustments for meter or rhyme may be made, such alterations should not compromise the theological integrity of the message being conveyed. In cases where metrical convenience conflicts with theological precision, theological considerations should prevail.

Conclusion: Navigating the Intersection of Inclusivity and Theological Integrity

In conclusion, the debate over the use of “Kin-dom” versus “Kingdom” is rooted in a commendable desire for inclusivity and gender neutrality in theological discourse. However, this proposal raises significant theological and linguistic concerns that warrant thorough examination. The term “Kin-dom” lacks linguistic clarity and fails to capture the full depth and complexity of the concept of God’s Kingdom. Moreover, it inadvertently diminishes the theological significance of God’s sovereignty and authority.

Alternative formulations, such as “God’s reign and family” or “God’s reign and kinship,” offer more comprehensive and nuanced understandings of God’s redemptive purposes while maintaining inclusivity and theological integrity. These formulations incorporate both the authoritative and relational dimensions of God’s Kingdom, affirming the full breadth and depth of God’s redemptive work in the world.

Furthermore, a thorough examination of the historical and biblical perspectives on the concept of God’s Kingdom provides valuable insights into the significance of linguistic choices in theological discourse. The term “Kingdom” has been central to Christian theology for millennia, embodying the hope for God’s ultimate reign and the fulfillment of God’s purposes in creation.

Amidst these discussions and explorations, I must confess my own inclination towards retaining the traditional term “Kingdom.” As much as I appreciate the intention behind introducing more inclusive language, I believe that “Kingdom” remains the most robust and comprehensive term for conveying the theological depth and richness of God’s reign. Even the alternative formulations we have explored, such as “God’s reign and family” or “God’s reign and kinship,” feel somewhat clunky and fail to capture in one word what “Kingdom” does so succinctly.

Furthermore, I am convinced that it is the responsibility of pastors, theologians, and educators to educate people on terms like “Kingdom” rather than resorting to alternative terminology for the sake of simplicity or inclusivity. By teaching and unpacking the theological significance of terms like “Kingdom,” we empower individuals to grow in their theological depth and maturity, fostering a deeper understanding of God’s redemptive purposes and the call to participate in God’s Kingdom work.

Ultimately, any proposed changes to theological terminology must be subjected to rigorous scrutiny and evaluation to ensure their theological accuracy and coherence. By approaching language with discernment and sensitivity, we can uphold both theological principles and the imperative for inclusivity in theological discourse. In doing so, we honor the richness and depth of our theological tradition while remaining faithful to the call for inclusivity and diversity in our language and practices.

Devotional

Shine, Baby, Shine

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Read Exodus 34:29-35

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord—who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image” (2 Corinthians 3:18 NLT).

In the ancient account of Moses descending from Mount Sinai, something extraordinary happens—he’s glowing! Picture that lantern in the garden, but instead of just glowing with firelight, Moses glows with the very presence of God. It’s as though he’s carrying a piece of heaven with him.

Like the lantern, Moses doesn’t even realize he’s glowing. It’s because he’s been talking to God up on the mountain, and the closeness to God’s presence has left its mark on him. When the people see Moses, they’re amazed but also a bit scared because he looks so different.

Think about those moments when you’ve felt close to God—maybe during prayer, or when you’ve experienced a sense of peace or joy. It’s like a warm feeling inside, isn’t it? That’s God’s presence shining through you, just like the light shining through the lantern.

Just as the lantern’s light draws people in, our lives can show others how amazing God is. When they see us being kind, forgiving, or joyful even when things are tough, they might want to know more about God too.

The passage of Moses coming down from the mountain offers us profound insights into the transformative power of encountering God’s presence. As we delve deeper into this acount, we discover layers of meaning that resonate with our own journey of faith.

So, imagine Moses walking down from this big, tall mountain, holding these special tablets from God. But here’s the thing—Moses didn’t even realize his face was shining super bright because he had been spending time with God up there. It was like God’s glow rubbed off on him.

Just like how a lantern lights up a dark room, God’s presence can light up our lives. When we pray, go to church, or think about God, it’s like adding fuel to a fire. We get closer to God, and His light shines brighter in us.

And when we’re filled with God’s light, it shows! People notice something different about us. They see how we act with kindness and love, even when things are tough. It’s like we’re carrying a piece of God’s love with us wherever we go.

But sometimes, we might feel like we need to hide that light. Maybe we’re too busy or worried about what others will think.  That’s okay—God’s light is still inside us, waiting to shine again when we’re ready to answer God’s call.  Even when things get hard, God’s light is always there, ready to help us and guide us.

So, let’s remember Moses and his glowing face. Let’s spend time with God and let His light shine through us, so we can show others how awesome God’s love is. And even when life gets tough, let’s not forget that God’s light is always with us, ready to help us through anything.

As we journey through the Lenten season, let us reflect on the radiant lantern in the garden and the luminous face of Moses. Let us draw near to God with open hearts, allowing His presence to ignite the flame within us and illuminate our lives with His love. And let us shine brightly, like beacons in the night, pointing others toward the source of all light and life.

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” – Martin Luther King Jr.

PRAYER
Dear God, thank You for being with me and for changing me from the inside out. Help me to spend time with You and to let Your light shine through me to others. May I be like Moses, bringing Your love and hope to everyone we meet. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Online Worship

March 3, 2024 – Newton UMC – Sunday Worship Livestream

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JOY Fellowship Worship Service in Holland Hall: 9:00 a.m.

Worship service streams live at 9:00 a.m. EST (-500 GMT)

Worship service streams live at 10:30 a.m. EST (-500 GMT)

Welcome to our live-streamed Sunday Worship Services for February 25, 2024. Today we discover that Jesus did not always love his options and in the midst of lament, he still freely chose to surrender to God.

Please support us by giving online: https://tithe.ly/give?c=1377216 or https://paypal.me/newtonumc Or you can make and mail a check out to First UMC of Newton, 111 Ryerson Ave., Newton, NJ O7860

God bless you all for your generosity which is vital to our mission and ministry.

Devotional

This Is the Way

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Read Jeremiah 29:11-13

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“I have tried hard to find you—don’t let me wander from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. I praise you, O LORD; teach me your decrees” (Psalm 119:10-12)

In our journey of faith, it’s easy to fall into the trap of seeking God only in the grandiose moments—the moments that shake us to our core or leave us in awe. We anticipate divine revelations in thunderous voices or miraculous signs, expecting God to show up in ways that demand our attention. Yet, just as The Mandalorian traverses the vastness of the galaxy in search of meaning and purpose, we too can find God in the ordinary moments of our daily lives.

For those who don’t know, The Mandalorian is a popular television series set in the “Star Wars” universe, focusing on the journey of a lone bounty hunter known as the Mandalorian, whose real name is Din Djarin. The series follows the Mandalorian as he navigates the outer reaches of the galaxy, taking on various jobs and missions while forming unexpected connections along the way. His life takes a dramatic turn when he is tasked with retrieving a mysterious and highly sought-after target, which turns out to be a young alien known as “The Child” or “Baby Yoda” by fans. As the Mandalorian forms a bond with the Child and learns more about its significance, he finds himself entangled in a larger conflict that goes beyond mere bounties, ultimately leading him on a quest for identity, purpose, and redemption.

The Mandalorian character offers us valuable lessons about persistence, integrity, and the power of connection. His journey mirrors our own quest to encounter God, providing parallels that resonate deeply with our spiritual walk.

Firstly, The Mandalorian embodies the importance of perseverance. Despite facing countless challenges and enduring numerous setbacks, he remains resolute in his commitment to his mission. The trials he faces do not deter him; rather, they fuel his determination to press forward. Similarly, in our pursuit of God, we may encounter obstacles and doubts that threaten to derail us. Yet, it is through steadfast determination and unwavering trust that we draw closer to God. When the journey seems long and arduous, we can take heart in knowing that God is with us every step of the way, guiding us forward with His unending grace.

Secondly, The Mandalorian exemplifies integrity in his actions. He operates according to a strict code of honor, guided by principles that define his character. As followers of Christ, we are called to walk with integrity, allowing our faith to permeate every aspect of our lives. Whether in our workplaces, relationships, or communities, our actions should reflect the love and grace of God that dwells within us. Just as The Mandalorian’s integrity sets him apart in a world filled with chaos and corruption, our commitment to living out our faith can be a beacon of hope and light in the darkness.

Finally, The Mandalorian discovers the power of connection through his relationships with others. Despite his solitary nature, he forms deep bonds with those he encounters on his journey, recognizing the value of companionship and community. Similarly, in our spiritual journey, we are not meant to walk alone. God often reveals Godself through the people we encounter, using them to remind us of God’s presence and love. Whether it’s the encouragement of a friend, the wisdom of a mentor, or the compassion of a stranger, these connections serve as tangible reminders of God’s grace and provision in our lives.

As we reflect on The Mandalorian’s journey, let us be inspired to seek God in the ordinary moments of our daily lives. Whether it’s in the laughter of loved ones, the beauty of nature, or the kindness of strangers, may we open our hearts to His presence and guidance. For it is in the midst of life’s ordinary moments that we often find the extraordinary grace of God, leading us ever closer to God. Let us embrace each moment as an opportunity to encounter the divine, trusting that God is always with us, even in the most ordinary of circumstances. This is the way.

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
Seeking God is not just about finding God in the extraordinary, but recognizing God’s presence in the ordinary moments of our daily lives.

PRAYER
Lord, help us find You in every moment, big or small. Amen.

Devotional

An Act of Faith

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Read Psalm 13

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning” (Lamentations 3:22-23 NLT).

In the film “Life as a House,” the audience is presented with a poignant portrayal of the power of lament and redemption. The protagonist, George Monroe, is a man whose life is marked by brokenness and despair. Estranged from his family, facing the ravages of terminal cancer, and grappling with the wreckage of his past, George finds himself on the brink of utter despair.

Having only a short time to live before he dies from cancer, George decides to try and reconcile with his teenage son with whom he has had little to no relationship with since he and his wife divorced. Wanting to right wrongs and grow close with his son, he takes him for the summer in order work on rebuilding his house and rebuilding their relationship. Of course, his son is not very receptive to the idea and exhibits resentment towards his dad.

Yet, amidst the ruins of his life, George discovers a glimmer of hope – an opportunity to rebuild not only his crumbling house but also the fractured relationships that define him. As he embarks on the monumental task of constructing his dream home, George is forced to confront the pain and regret that have long haunted him. In the process, he learns that true healing can only come through lament – through the courageous act of acknowledging his failures, his losses, and his deepest longings.

Like the psalmist in Psalm 13, George deals with his own anguish and his feeling of being forgotten and abandoned. He does not express it out loud or directly to God per se; instead, the film uses metaphor to show his lament. Still, even in his darkest moments, George clings to the hope that love endures – that life is renewed each morning, offering the promise of redemption and renewal.

Similarly, the prophet Jeremiah’s lamentations find resonance in George’s story. As he surveys the wreckage of his life, George mourns the brokenness that surrounds him, lamenting the pain of his past and the uncertainty of his future. And yet, even during such despair, George finds solace in the hope of reconciling with his estranged son, even in the face of overwhelming adversity.

In the end, “Life as a House” reminds us that lament is not merely an expression of sorrow; it is an act of faith – and Scripture remind us that our lament a declaration of trust in a God who hears, who cares, and who redeems. When we lift our voices in lament, we join a chorus of believers throughout history who dared to pour out their hearts before the Almighty, trusting that He can redeem even the darkest moments of our lives.

Just as George finds healing and wholeness through the process of lamentation, so too can we. When we dare to confront our pain, our regrets, and our deepest longings, we invite God into the broken places of our hearts, trusting that He is able to bring beauty from ashes and joy from mourning. Lament is not a sign of weakness but of strength – a courageous declaration that we refuse to be silenced by despair, that we will continue to hope in a God who hears our cries and redeems our brokenness.

In the tapestry of Christian faith, lament forms a crucial thread, weaving through the Psalms, the stories of Job, and the words of the prophets. It is a sacred practice that invites us to bring our whole selves – our pain, our doubts, and our deepest longings – before the God who hears, who cares, and who redeems. And in the act of lamentation, we discover that even in the midst of our darkest moments, we are never alone – for our Lord Jesus Christ walks with us, offering love, peace, hope, healing, and wholeness.

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
In the raw vulnerability of lament lies a profound beauty—a testament to the depth of human emotion and the unyielding grace of a God who meets us in our brokenness, offering solace and redemption amidst the pain.

PRAYER
Gracious Lord,  in our moments of lament, may we find solace in Your unfailing love and unwavering faithfulness, trusting in Your promises of renewal and redemption. Amen.

Online Worship

February 25, 2024 – Newton UMC – Sunday Worship Livestream

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JOY Fellowship Worship Service in Holland Hall: 9:00 a.m.

Worship service streams live at 9:00 a.m. EST (-500 GMT)

Worship service streams live at 10:30 a.m. EST (-500 GMT)

Welcome to our live-streamed Sunday Worship Services for February 25, 2024. Today we discover that Job’s response to his friends ensures us that we can be honest with God in even the most painful situations, trusting God to be God in the process.

Please support us by giving online: https://tithe.ly/give?c=1377216 or https://paypal.me/newtonumc Or you can make and mail a check out to First UMC of Newton, 111 Ryerson Ave., Newton, NJ O7860

God bless you all for your generosity which is vital to our mission and ministry.

Devotional, Previous Post

REVISITED: Son of God

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Read Matthew 28:16-20

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“And he said to them, ‘Go into all the world and proclaim the good news to the whole creation.’” (Mark 16:15)

Son_of_God_film_posterAs a person who is kind of a film buff, I have collected a good many of movies over the years. In particular, I have been and will continue to be a collector of “Jesus” movies. I remember enjoying the film, “King of Kings”, growing up as a child. I remember watching “The Greatest Story Ever Told,” “Jesus of Nazareth”, and other such films centered on the life, death and resurrection of the Christ. I now, as an adult, own these films and do watch the periodically. I like how each “Jesus” film brings a slightly different take on who the Christ was and how his message played out to the people. In fact, different films focus on different aspects of Jesus ministry.

There is a new film that has been released on screens throughout theaters country-wide today. It is called “Son of God” and it is about the life, death and resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth. It is taken from the The Bible miniseries that aired on the History Channel during Lent last year. This film contains the footage, and then some, that was found in that miniseries, and it was produced by Mark Burnett and Roma Downey.

In an interview, Burnett and Downey were questioned about how they went about making the film. “Clearly, there people all over the board when it comes to reading and interpreting the Bible,” the interviewer began. “Different denominations have different interpretations as to the person of Jesus, who he was and what his life, death and resurrection means for the world. Did you consider that in the making of this film? How did you go about making a film that would satisfy different people with different interpretations?”

According to Burnett and Downey, they met with religious leaders from different denominations, including but not limited to Roman Catholics, Baptists, Evangelicals, Assembly of God, and other denominations in order to get their opinion on the Script and the direction the film was taking in terms of its presentation of who the Christ was. Burnett even said they brought the film to the Anti-Defamation League to seek their advice and approval to make sure that the film didn’t unintentionally cross into the realm being anti-semitic.

What a novel idea. While Burnett and Downey certainly have their own understanding of who Jesus is, they were not afraid to have their understanding challenged in order to create a film that reached people where they are at. That is not to say that the film will satisfy every person’s burning belief of who Jesus was, but it does show a level of openness to accountability that we rarely see in Hollywood, let alone in the church.

While, having seen The Bible miniseries, I do not share all of the theological positions of the filmmakers regarding Jesus, I do know that I will be going to see this film today. I think it is important to support such films because they get the message of Hope, Healing and Wholeness out to the masses. They catch the attention of people who need to hear that God loves them so much and that God would never leave them alone. They stir a curiosity about the real CHRIST in a world that has all but forgotten the power and importance of his message. So today’s challenge to you is to go and support the film, “The Son of God.” Even if you do not agree with everything, or even if you agree with everything, this film is one that is worthy of our time and money. No doubt, if you open yourself up to the possibility, God will speak to you as you journey with Christ through this film. Let your Lenten journey begin here.

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
Christ who was in the world is also within you, and through you Christ remains in the world still! Live into Christ and his Good News.

PRAYER
Lord, use me in a way that reflects Christ’s presence within me. Amen.

Devotional, Previous Post

REVISITED: The Happiest Place on Earth

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Read Galatians 3:1-5

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” (Romans 12:2)

Disney-World-in-Orlando-FloridaAround this time in February of 2013, I returned from my family vacation in Walt Disney World down in sunny Orlando, Florida. Let me tell you, there is nothing like a Florida vacation when you are in the middle of a record-cold and snowy winter. The skies were blue and clear, the humidity was non-existent, the temperature was 75-80 degrees, and the people were as friendly as can be. Quite frankly, with temperatures like that, it’s hard not to be friendly.

Speaking of friendly, have you ever been to Walt Disney World? The people working there are always the nicest, most friendly people you’ll ever meet. They all have big, bright smiles on their faces. They all look genuinely happy to be at work. They all treat the park goers (aka the customers) as if they can do no wrong. Walt Disney World is certainly the HAPPIEST place on earth. If any of the “cast” members are having a bad day at work, no one would ever be able to tell.

While reflecting theologically on Walt Disney World, one can’t help but notice that the place is almost too happy. It’s almost too clean. I mean, one never finds a shred of paper, bubble gum, straw or trace of any kind of litter around the park at all. That is because they employ a whole host of “happy” helpers to sweep it up. When one enters Walt Disney World, it is as if they are leaving the real world and entering the greatest utopia ever (that is unless you hate to wait on lines…then you might not find it a utopia at all).

I have heard people muse that it would be awesome if the church took a clue from Walt Disney World. In other words, some people think that the church would be a whole lot more successful in its outreach and its growth if it would just put a smile on its face and show the world that the church is a happy, happy place. If churches would just be happy and distance themselves from fighting, bickering, power playing, and judging then it would only make sense that more people would want to go to church, right?

Yet, is that the answer for the church? To put on an act of happiness? Should the church turn itself into a clean, wholesome, happy-go-lucky, unlittered, perfect-in-every-way stage. Should church members become cast members who only show their good sides and are given no place to show any other side but their good sides? Would this church even be called “real”, should such a church exist?

The fact of the matter is that Jesus never called for a clean church; rather, Jesus calls us, the church, to get our hands dirty. We are called to be present in the lives of others. We are called to express ourselves honestly, we are called to present others with the opportunity to express themselves honestly. We are not called to be perfect, but are being called toward perfection.

The truth is that it would not be healthy for the church to model itself after Walt Disney World, as that is not true to what the church really is. The church is a mess that God continues to work in and through. It is because we are a mess that we are kept humble and that we are continually reminded of our need for God to guide us through! While it certainly wouldn’t hurt for our church to be cheerful and joyful, and it certainly wouldn’t hurt for church members to be as hospitable as the Disney Cast Members are taught to be, we are not called to be an escape from the real world, but the hope of God brought into the midst of a real and messy world. It’s time to get our hands dirty!

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
“This is the very perfection of a man, to find out his own imperfections.” – St. Augustine of Hippo

PRAYER
Lord, rather than seeking to be perfect, I seek to be perfected by you. Show me where I err, and change me to what you will. Amen.

Online Worship

February 18, 2024 – Newton UMC – Sunday Worship Livestream

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JOY Fellowship Worship Service in Holland Hall: 9:00 a.m.

Worship service streams live at 9:00 a.m. EST (-500 GMT)

Worship service streams live at 10:30 a.m. EST (-500 GMT)

Welcome to our live-streamed Sunday Worship Services for February 18, 2024. Today we discover that, in Lent, lament invites us to face our humanity. Lament is a natural part of our faithful, loving response to a world marked by sin and brokenness.

Please support us by giving online: https://tithe.ly/give?c=1377216 or https://paypal.me/newtonumc Or you can make and mail a check out to First UMC of Newton, 111 Ryerson Ave., Newton, NJ O7860

God bless you all for your generosity which is vital to our mission and ministry.

Online Worship, Previous Post

February 14, 2024 – Newton UMC – Ash Wednesday Worship Livestream

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JOY Fellowship Worship Service in Holland Hall: 7:00 p.m.

Worship service streams live at 7:00 p.m. EST (-500 GMT)

Welcome to our live-streamed Sunday Worship Services for February 14, 2024. Today we discover that some of our deepest troubles can come from within us. As we bring them to God, we can grieve and turn from our sins with readiness to receive God’s ever-present grace.

Please support us by giving online: https://tithe.ly/give?c=1377216 or https://paypal.me/newtonumc Or you can make and mail a check out to First UMC of Newton, 111 Ryerson Ave., Newton, NJ O7860

God bless you all for your generosity which is vital to our mission and ministry.