WHAT GOSPEL IS THAT?

“A church that doesn’t provoke any crises, a gospel that doesn’t unsettle, a word of God that doesn’t get under anyone’s skin, a word of God that doesn’t touch the real sin of the society in which it is being proclaimed …what gospel is that?” wrote Archbishop Oscar Romero (1917-1980).

Pope Francis said not long ago, “I prefer a church which is bruised, hurting and dirty because it has been out on the streets, rather than a church which is unhealthy from being confined and from clinging to its own security.”

If our gospel is “safe” and our churches are “safe” we are probably a neutered and impotent force trying to meet our culture head on with the truth and righteousness of the Gospel of the Kingdom. We must realize that it will be no different for us than the first disciples of Jesus. We must get dirty and it will cost… or our meetings can continue to consist of the same old three hymns, a responsive reading and twenty minute little talk and a closing prayer. Enough of that. It’s time to hit the streets.

“Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will keep yours also.” Jesus