Musings: Notes From My Daybook

Thanks to Joe P, for the link to an insightful, indicting article by Stanley Hauerwas on Dietrich Bonhoeffer published by the Center of Theological Inquiry here.

Hauerwas takes up the topic of truthtelling--particularly in light of public, political process. Though a number of Bonhoeffer's works are known by my readers, including The Cost of Discipleship or Life Together, less known are some of his essays collected together in Rusty Swords. Bonhoeffer takes to task American theological education, especially when it comes to protecting unity or community. What is fair, not what is true is too often the question raised. In such an environment, the capacity to speak or hear Christian truth becomes distorted.

If the church today is more interested in getting along with political and cultural forces than it is in telling the truth about God, then what might be the sad result? I believe this to be a real temptation; it is appealing to think that the Christian church could polish up its tarnished image and look a little more attractive to a secular world.

Yet the real temptation lies in our commitment to be truthful in small ways. And perhaps the our truth-telling begins with our truthful listening--to nothing less than the Word of God as it speaks to us.