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Transcript

Forgiveness is a Political Matter

Session #4 on the Mystery of Christ

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Here are a few choice quotes from Capon’s Mystery of Christ:

  • “The truth that makes us free is always ticking away like a time bomb in the basement of everybody’s church. And that truth isn’t a bunch of ideas. It’s Jesus. Sooner or later, if we just sit still and listen, he’ll blow the lid off any prison we’ve built.”

  • “Forgiveness, therefore, is not a psychological matter, or a religious matter, or a “spiritual” matter: it’s a political matter.”

  • “Consider the scene in church on a Sunday. Here are a bunch of people, more or less dressed to the nines, in an expensive building, with maybe very spectacular music and even a paid choir, deliberately celebrating the worst thing the human race — which includes them — has ever done: the murder of God Incarnate. “Do you see the point? They’ve taken the rottenest thing that ever happened and reinstalled it in their lives as a joyful remembrance. They haven’t run away from the evil; they’ve actually made it the centerpiece of their celebration. They’ve taken what should have caused only alienation, and, by the pardon that flows from it to them, they’ve turned it into a festival of reconciliation.” “But I don’t know if I believe that. The reconciliation, I mean.” “You could decide to. We’re back at faith again, you see. In the long run, it’s the only product I’ve got in the store.””

Show Notes

Summary

This conversation delves into the themes of grief, loss, and forgiveness through the lens of Mabel's journey. The speakers explore personal experiences of grief, the role of faith in healing, and the importance of community support. They discuss the political dimensions of forgiveness and the nature of God's grace, emphasizing the need for rituals in processing grief. The conversation concludes with reflections on the communal aspects of healing and the ongoing journey of faith.

Takeaways

  • Grief is a common experience that can be isolating.

  • Forgiveness is essential for healing but can be complex.

  • Personal experiences of loss shape our understanding of grief.

  • Faith plays a crucial role in navigating grief and loss.

  • Community support is vital in the healing process.

  • Rituals help us remember and process our grief.

  • The nature of God is rooted in love and grace.

  • Understanding our role in the community can aid healing.

  • The political dimensions of forgiveness impact our relationships.

  • Grief can lead to deeper connections with others and with God.

Sound Bites

  • "I think she was well insulated."

  • "Grief was not the dominant motif."

  • "Don't let my death be yours."

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