We live in a world of opposites. More soberly, opposition. Your way, my way (the “right” way), or the highway. The more exceIlent way, the third way, is seldom chosen. It is the way of acknowledging and holding the opposites in tension, then pursuing peace and reconciliation. The final story is bigger than us.

Since the invasion of Ukraine our congregation, and I expect most congregations in the world, has been praying for the ceasing of war. We have been praying for Zelenskyy and Putin to come to the negotiating table. If selfish ambition was laid aside along with the weapons, that would be the third way. It would be risky but reformative and restorative. Like the dismantling of the Berlin Wall. Sadat and Begin shaking hands with beaming smiles. No hidden agendas. The beloved community that The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. held up as the dream he had for his children and future generations. The kingdom of God, securely here and now. Our obsessions of being right so I can say you’re wrong would disappear. It requires doing the necessary work of seeking justice and walking in humility. God is always bigger than our boxes and silos.

Being transformed means being willing to take the journey, the road less traveled, away from our comfort zone. On my way into church this morning, I had a Brad Paisley CD on in my truck. I love his clever song writing, his ability to play on words and turn a phrase. It is whimsical, feel-good music that transcends the country genre. The song that was playing as I pulled into the parking lot was “Southern Comfort Zone” (see what I mean?) It was about traveling far from home, even internationally, getting that experience, then doing the Dorothy Gale, clicking her heels, and ending back in familiar, cozy Kansas or wherever.

We are beckoned to the third way, the more excellent way. The way of the cross. The way of metanoia, of turning around and repentance. Lent continues for those bold enough to apprehend it’s sacrifice and self-reflection. Seeing the image of God in places and faces that instinctively repel us. Loving our enemies. Praying for our bullies and detractors.

Read Romans 8:26-27 for further instructions. God bless and encourage you as you seek that third way that breaks down barriers and causes the war of opposition to cease. This, with the assurance that you are loved unconditionally.

Pastor Art