From Fear to Wholeness: Embracing Love and Connection in a Time of Division
I had a conversation recently about Rev. Mariann Budde, the Episcopal Bishop of Washington, where I had someone say that we needed to "fear God more". This statement came in response to Rev. Budde's courageous sermon at the National Cathedral during the inaugural prayer service for President Trump's second term. She publicly called on the president to have mercy on immigrants and LGBTQ+ people, many of whom fear for their safety and well-being in the current political climate. This act of speaking truth to power ignited a firestorm of both praise and criticism.
I do disagree that we should have "fear of the Lord". It is our fear that keeps people battling, separated, and isolated. If we actually listened to what Christ said, we can live in the love of our Lord. "Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love." (1 John 4:8). And again, "God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him." (1 John 4:16).
The concept of "fear" in the Bible is often misunderstood. In my studies, I have found that it's more about a deep reverence and awe of God, recognizing His power and authority. It's similar to how some people might feel standing before a vast ocean or a towering mountain – a sense of wonder and humility.
However, it's important to remember that there are many different ways people understand the divine. As a licensed minister of Jediism, I believe in an energy that flows to us and through us and comprises all things. Much like a Taoist or Buddhist, I see a universal spiritual force, a "Great Mystery, unknown and unknowable" as the Lakota pray.
Lama Rod Owens, a Buddhist teacher, speaks of "loving, praying, and struggling through my trauma to drink from the Divine, offering everything I can to those transitioning into the spirit realms, offering what I can to those who remain in this realm." This sentiment echoes the Jedi philosophy of compassion, selfless service, and living in harmony with the Force. The Force, like the Divine, is an energy that connects all beings. It calls us to act with courage and kindness, to protect the vulnerable, and to strive for balance and justice.
The Jedi teachings remind us that fear is a path to the dark side. "Fear leads to anger. Anger leads to hate. Hate leads to suffering." To overcome fear, we must cultivate inner peace and strive for balance within ourselves and in the world around us. This involves recognizing the inherent worth and dignity of all beings, regardless of their beliefs or background.
One of my ministries is to help move people from fear and punishment, to love and choice. Fear is destructive on the mind and body and causes all kinds of problems with decision making, physical health problems, mental health problems, isolation, and stagnation.
I believe that fear and division is what got us into this space and love and connection is what will ultimately see us through. That is why I live my life asking three core questions:
How can I foster more connection?
What am I not seeing?
How can this serve All?
May we all choose the path of love, not fear. May we be guided by compassion, not division. May we be beacons of hope and healing in a world that desperately needs both.
Be a part of the conversation, find your center, and be heard in our weekly service, Sanctuary.
There will be a short message, a meditation, and a space to release whatever is on your heart in a loving, non-judgemental space.
Get the link in the events section inside the community.
