Beyond Ideology

I am what we should be—that is, post-ideological. We are to be about healing, not division. We are not to be subservient to ideology, but above it.

- Richard Cizik, president of the New Evangelical Partnership for the Common Good, defending himself against criticism that he has been co-opted by liberals.

Most of us are passionate about politics, religion, justice, and peace. What are your core values? They are likely to affect not only the way you vote but also the way you relate to other people. They’ll even affect the way you relate to God. You may believe people are essentially good, and left to their own devices they will be kind, loving, and generous. You see God unlocking human potential, setting people free. On the other hand, you may believe people are essentially self-serving, and left to their own devices they will always do what’s in their own best interest. You see God regulating human behavior, forgiving sin, and demanding satisfaction that only a sinless Jesus can provide. Competing ideologies lead to radically different images of the church. Communities fight and divide over things like this.

What would it be like to be truly post-ideological? Could you imagine, for a moment, an image of God that doesn’t reflect your own assumptions about human nature? It might lead to healing, both in our communities and in our souls.

Along the way, I wish you God’s peace for today’s stage of your Lenten spiritual journey. May Christ’s companionship bless you with confidence for the day, comfort you in trouble, and put a spring of joy in your step.