Monday, May 12

Finding time for McLaren


I have spent countless hours hearing about Brian McLaren and hearing him speak in chapel. Finally, I was able to read one of his books. The first book I tackled was Everything Must Change: Jesus, Global Crisis, and a Revolution of Hope. In this book he has created a model for the "system" in which our society is controlled. In fact, he calls it a "suicidal machine" that we have created and is going to self-destruct if we don't save it. It is a system under which injustice, oppression, poverty, and destruction survive and dwell.

I think it was an extremely effective model that he created to get some strong political statements across.

Let me back up, I am reading this from my point of view, a believer from an extremely conservative republican background where laws are the guide and wealth is to be conserved and protected (maybe that was too strong?). I read this from a viewpoint which has heard much of the political reformation which must take place among evangelicals, but has not begun to practically understand how this can take place (until recent years).

Continuing on... this was an extremely effective model to present to myself, my family, and most of my conservative friends growing up who were/are opposed to socialism, environmentalism, and definitely pacifism.

If you find yourself in this boat, pick up Brian McLaren's book and just read the first chapter. If you have an open mind, it should draw you in. Don't be scared to contemplate ideas other than your own... the worst that could happen is your ignorance begins to crumble.

Trust me, it's an exciting experience.

2 comments:

  1. I love your blogs, Caitlin, and I love how you've challenged me to examine new ideas (read new books). I am a part of your conservative background, although my thoughts & beliefs have changed alot over the last 6 years. I will say that I don't believe socialism works (national), we do have a responsibility to take care of the earth, and as far as it depends on us, we should be at peace with everyone. I just finished a class on "Biblical Perspectives on War", which presented pacifism vs. just cause for war. Very interesting, lots of common beliefs. I'd love to share what I learned with you sometime. Love & miss you, Cutie!!

    ReplyDelete
  2. Great stuff Caitlin!

    I am excited about your journey- thanks for sharing.

    ReplyDelete

I am currently reading...

  • "It: How Churches and Leaders Can Get It and Keep It" by Craig Groeschel
  • "90 Minutes in Heaven"
  • "The Old Man and the Sea"