us/them=we

A few weeks back we were talking in church about the way that if we are to be the community God is calling us to we need to break down some barriers.

I mentioned that there is a need to stop “picking teams” of insiders and outsides.  This comes across in comments like, “They are trying to steal our young people,” or “why don’t those people see it more like us (those in the church).”

After encouraging the congregation to shift our understanding to that of everyone being on the same side. We are all on a journey of faith.  Some are rather far down the road, some are still packing, others have ventured into the wilderness to chase a squirrel.  But the fact remains we are still on a journey.  (as a side note: I don’t hold to the idea that all paths lead to God but I do think God will go down all paths to get us back on the right one.  That right one being life eternal through Christ.)

After some really great conversation with the community at Faithpoint, many voiced concern about the us vs. them mentality and how to break down the walls. one of the questions that has been sticking with me is, “If the ‘goal’ is to make outsides (them) into insiders (us) what will be found when folks are on the inside? And will there still be room for relationship and community?”

I was thinking about my experience going through the ordination process.  I know it is the job of the board to examine the candidates and ask though questions.  In fact I really liked those questions.  There is nothing like taking on the questions of very theologically grounded people while 15 sets of eyes are scrutinizing you.  I really did like the questions because it made me think.

However there were a few in the process who attacked and asked questions that crossed boundaries.  They were the insider and I was the outsider.  But now, I am one of “them” I am on the inside.  So now is there room for relationship after the personal attacks?  Is there room for community or even conversation as colleagues after begin treated like someone who would never find a seat at the table? No (please read that with the kid of twang that comes from Jase Robertson from Duck Dynasty)

Those who treated me as a potential peer and want the best from me I still connect with and value their opinion.  think about iron sharpening Iron (proverbs 27:17)

So how do we then break down the barrier?  We (all) have to be willing to meet in the middle and have conversation.  We all have to realize that we have more in common than the things that split us apart and starting with commonality is a great foundation to deeper connection and community.  Ad campaigns and big budgets are no replacement for a cup of coffee , or sitting in a ball pit together.  Check out the video below and see how us/them becomes we.