Today one of the
many topics engaged in class was a Theology of the Cross vs. a Theology of
Glory. We looked at several different Thesis in Luther's Heidelberg Disputation.
One that struck me in a new way today was Thesis 28. The idea that
we learn how to love from God and we love because God first loved us is a
powerful way to look at Thesis 28. It also had me thinking about our sin and
the forgiveness that we are given. Paul Tillich came to mind and a few of the
statements he makes in his book, The New
Being. In this book, he says, “Genuine
forgiveness is participation, reunion overcoming the powers of estrangement.
And only because this is so, does forgiveness make love possible.” (page 10) Then just a
few pages later says, “We can love without being sure of the answering
love of the other one.” (page 12) I think Tillich helps us capture even more the idea
Luther is getting at and what connects to the concept of being a Theologian of
the Cross. The cross is the ultimate example of this love even in the mess and
pain of the world. The cross is that visible sign of love and forgiveness that we can view the world and our lives through.
I truly believe that various platforms of media can aid us in responding with love when we use them effectively. Drescher & Anderson allude to how they can aid in their book, Click 2 Save: The Digital Ministry Bible. They say, "People need to know that you care-and they need to care about you before they will ever care about your institution." (page 37) The reality is social media can aid us in responding in and with love to deepen and enrich relationships. Our love can extend wide and it can enhance what is already present. I believe when we use social media and other media to intensify relationships and to use it as another way to respond it is in those moments we are using media effectively. This is not the only time, but one exemplary example.
I truly believe that various platforms of media can aid us in responding with love when we use them effectively. Drescher & Anderson allude to how they can aid in their book, Click 2 Save: The Digital Ministry Bible. They say, "People need to know that you care-and they need to care about you before they will ever care about your institution." (page 37) The reality is social media can aid us in responding in and with love to deepen and enrich relationships. Our love can extend wide and it can enhance what is already present. I believe when we use social media and other media to intensify relationships and to use it as another way to respond it is in those moments we are using media effectively. This is not the only time, but one exemplary example.
I love this cross! It's not one I've ever seen, and it illustrates your point well.
ReplyDeleteI really like your picture it really expresses the love at the heart of Christianity. I also think your right about how important the theology of the cross though I must admit I have not learned very much about it in the past so I am looking forward to discovering more about it here at Seminary.
ReplyDeleteHave you read "The Beauty of the Cross: The Passion of Christ in Theology and the Arts from the Catacombs to the Eve of the Renaissance" by Richard Viladeasu? I bought the book a couple years ago after taking a class with Dr. Christianson, and just started reading it in the last few weeks.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.amazon.com/The-Beauty-Cross-Catacombs-Renaissance/dp/0195367111