Justin pointed out this interesting article to me. If you'll click on the link you see the cover story of Monday's New York Times. The headline is Detroit Churches Pray for 'God's Bailout'. My first reaction was one of disgust that a church would resort to such cheesy publicity, seemingly to just attract attention. But upon further reflection, and after reading the article I've ever so slightly revised that opinion. In the spirit of Christian charity I think we should consider that in the midst of their saying
We support the bailout and will use every gimmick at our disposal to get it passedthey were really thinking,
Most of our congregation depends on the auto industry and we're very worried they're not going to make it.They are certainly using every gimmick available to attract attention to their cause, and inviting the United Auto Workers and various Auto executives to speak at the event implies to me that they are a bit caught up in themselves. Still, giving them the benefit of the doubt, what is probably behind all the phony spirituality is a real concern for the community.
I doubt very much that God gives a whit for the United Auto Workers, the Automobile Industry, or the General Motors Corporation. But I know for a fact that he loves deeply and is terribly focused on every individual person who is effected by the troubling economic times. I just wish weren't so caught up in themselves that we always thought of God as 'The Great Economist/Politician in the sky'. He is more concerned with his people living in worship, whatever happens to their economic situation. And if the words of Jesus are to be trusted, True worship of God may be even easier when times are rough. "Blessed are the poor in spirit" and all that.
But even in the midst of SUV Altars and 'God's Bailout' there is light to be seen. To quote the article,
Bishop Ellis encouraged the congregation to pray, not that Congress would “do the right thing” and approve loaning money to the car companies, but that Detroiters would “make it” through these tough times.
I don't know the guy's heart, but his words are (at least a bit) on track with God's will for his people.
1 comment:
I had much of the same reactions to that article when I read it the other day. It's good to put things in perspective. You are right that many of that congregation probably depend on the auto industry for their well being. And while God doesn't probably think too much about hybrids, He does care for those who make them :)
Perhaps Boeing should volunteer one of its 747s to be displayed on the stage at my church so we could pray for them.
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