The Story or A Story

As our church begins to read through much of the Bible in chronological order and in narrative fashion, we are embarking upon a deeper understanding of an overarching story, God's story. We may not realize this, but our premise that God has an overarching story, that weaves together ancient history with modernity is quite brazen to a postmodern society. Our postmodern society rejects the notion of a "meta narrative," which means there is an overarching, grand narrative or theme to existance on earth. As a result, we are left to create our own meaning in life. In other words, noone can tell you what your purpose is in life, because there is no meta narrative, there is only a personal narrative, which each of us must create.

The ramifications of this aspect of postmodernity ripple into realms of morality and theology. For instance, since each of us must create our own meaning in life, then our morality and theology is subjective. This is evidenced in the popular notion of "What's right for you is right for you, but don't try to push your morals on me." Furthermore, religious pluralism has been birthed out of this aspect of postmodernity. Religious pluralist may vehemently react by asking "Who are we as Christians, or anyone of any religion, to suggest we are right and everyone else is wrong?" "We must be tolerant and accepting of all views." Unfortunately in our society, accepting other views means adopting all views.

These notions pose real challenges to Christians today. We are professing a universal theme or purpose to all life. We are also espousing universal Truths and morals which apply to all people. And we are advocating there is a singular path towards a relationship with God. All of these notions are more than just unpopular today, they are vehemently rejected. So as we embark upon this exciting adventure, let us be aware that our beliefs are largely rejected and it is difficult for contemporary society to disagree with a person's beliefs without discarding the person altogether. (just look at democrats and republicans)

So we have an opportunity not only to hold to our convictions but to hold on to them without responding to our culture in kind. As the world rejects our beliefs and possibly us in general, we are to follow Christ's example by extending grace, acceptance and love. Despite our age of tolerance and pluralism, these characteristics are universally welcomed and inherent of Christ.