In an effort to show the continuing relevance of Christian ethical ideals to contemporary culture, Christians have commonly attempted to commend the gospel in the language of values. I argue that this is a mistake. The reduction of the gospel to a set of values constitutes a betrayal of the gospel itself and contributes to rather than counters the perceived irrelevance of Christian faith. I develop, by contrast, an account of Christian ethics that is grounded in and inseparable from faith in the risen Christ, and trace, by way of example, the implications of such an ethics within the context of global error.
High Pressure Zone Spirituality
The double entendre of pneuma in John 3, as both wind and Spirit, is extended to a broader analogy of Christian spirituality. The expansive love of God’s Spirit in and through Christians stirs them, in response, to express that love to those around them. This exchange is compared to an atmospheric high pressure zone that spreads as wind into nearby low pressure zones. Those who experience God’s love as a dynamic reality become spontaneous agents of transformation, stirring both Christians and non-Christians: hearts moved move other hearts. This imagery offers a more theocentric and holistic understanding of faith and ministry, so that the proper motivation for Christian conduct is described as a response to Trinitarian relationality—of God as love—than as the more common stoic and programmatic motivations of duty and discipline.
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A New Vision for Faith and Politics in America
Wallis says that the two great hungers in the world are for spirituality and social justice, but too often we see the two as incompatible. His essay reveals a new movement within Christianity based on a holistic engagement of moral values. He believes that America is ready for a national discussion on moral values. But it must be a debate supporting a broader and deeper view of politics “grounded in all of our values.” He says that abortion and gay marriage should not be the only issues stimulating Christians to action. We must address poverty, war, disease, exploitation, environmental and economic concerns as well as many others. Wallis sees a movement emerging that can “change the wind” and force politicians and governments to take notice and take action on issues of moral values. He is just one of many voices calling Christians to action and shouting the new altar call for the moral values campaign.
A Chance to Show Off Jesus
Campolo graphically illustrates the misconceptions and prejudices that Christians have about AIDS. Christians often associate the disease with sexual immorality, specifically homosexuality, and ostracize those who are afflicted by it because we suppose they are under a punishment from God for their sins. Campolo believes that AIDS is the modern equivalent to leprosy. We are unwilling to accept AIDS victims into our church communities—even though Jesus embraced and healed lepers, the ‘unclean’ of his day. Campolo then describes the work that REACH ministries, directed by Suzie Slonaker, does with children afflicted by AIDS. He sees in their staff and volunteers people who display “a beautiful expression of God’s love” in forming relationships with these children, showing them that God loves them no matter what. Campolo observes that Bono has made us aware of the plight of those who suffer from AIDS in Africa, and that likewise, Suzie Slonaker and REACH are doing the same at home in the Pacific Northwest.
Caught in the Whirlwind of God
The prostitute Rahab’s scarlet cord weaves through time, rippling under the power of God’s breath, offering a way to safety and freedom for those who observe it.
The breath of God swirls around and through the community of REACH, refreshing, encouraging “the least of these,” the broken, the down trodden, the forgotten. God’s love for children infected by HIV/ AIDS has called REACH to serve, calls the church to join us in a myriad of programs and education that offer love, hope and courage for children who suffer life-threatening diseases. Through REACH God invites all to the table of healing and justice.
REACH is a slender ministry vitalized by the sweet and sustaining breath of God. REACH is a cord tossed from a sinner’s window marking a place of safety and hope.