By Pastor Jeff Jacobs
Unity Lutheran Parish –
St. Paul, Saetersdal and
St. Matthew’s, Granger
The Christian Century, a Protestant periodical, began as The Christian Oracle, then in 1900 became The Christian Century, with hope “genuine Christian faith could live in mutual harmony with the modern developments in science, technology, immigration, communication and culture that were already under way.” It reflected optimism the Gospel was ushering in an era of enlightenment and harmony.
Yet that “Christian century” faced challenges. Poverty and disease were widespread. The Industrial Revolution brought advances, but also pollution and unfair labor practices. Race, sex and class discrimination were rampant, and radical movements resulted in two World Wars, the Cold War and numerable late 20th century conflicts.
Now we’re one quarter into the 21st century. Poverty is diminished and many diseases are controlled, but many yet go hungry and COVID showed we’re not entirely health secure. Recycling and cleaner energy address some pollution, but climate changes still threaten. There are strides against discrimination, but tensions continue, and warfare has resurfaced to an extent not seen since the World Wars.
The first “Christian century” was little different. Poverty, famine and plagues were rife. Most were peasants or slaves, and class distrust was common. The Roman Empire kept “peace” imposing harsh penalties on rebels, and dissension simmered.
Into this setting, the Gospel presented a “revolutionary” alternative of unconditional, sacrificial love demonstrated by Christ’s cross reconciling all people. Despite persecution, this revolution spread across the Empire, gathering Jews, Gentiles, peasants, patricians in a new community of faith, hope and love. It was not perfect, but in a broken world, this communion in Christ still witnesses to his redemption and renewal.
From that challenging first Christian century, Paul’s words resonate today: “Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honor. Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly; do not claim to be wise than you are. Do not repay anyone evil for evil, but take thought for what is noble in the sight of all. If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.” (Rom. 12:9-18)
Leave a Reply