The myth of redemptive violence is nationalism become absolute. This myth speaks for God; it does not listen for God to speak. It invokes the sovereignty of God as its own. It does not entertain the prophetic possibility of radical denunciation and negation by God. It misappropriates the language, symbols and scriptures of Christianity. It does not seek God in order to change; it claims God in order to prevent change. Its God is not the impartial ruler of all nations but a biased and partial tribal god worshiped as an idol. Its metaphor is not the journey but a fortress. Its symbol is not a cross but a rod of iron. Its offer is not forgiveness but victory. Its good news is not the unconditional love of enemies but their final liquidation. Its salvation is not a new heart but a successful foreign policy. It usurps the revelation of God's purposes for humanity in Jesus. It is blasphemous. It is idolatrous.
And it is immensely popular.
(Engaging the Powers - Walter Wink, p. 30)
Saturday, July 21, 2012
NATIONALISM BECOME ABSOLUTE
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Linked your blog post to Café story today
ReplyDeleteWow, Grandmere, what a powerful read! Thanks for posting this.
ReplyDeletenij
Walter Wink is very wise...God rest his soul. His wisdom lives on in his writing and speeches and his influence on so many lives.
DeleteIf you know what a "new heart" is and what a "new heart" involves, why bother with religion? Since anyone can find this out for him/herself, why do we need to go to church/shul/mosque/temple?
ReplyDeleteAnonymous, I didn't say you did. Find your new heart for yourself. As for me, I needed my faith to find a new heart.
DeleteIf you comment again, please make up a name and sign your comment, or I will delete.