April 20, 2009 issue
A unifying word
By Mary Rufenacht Archbold, OhioI enjoyed Jane Yoder-Short’s column “Caught in the Whirlwind” probably because I have struggled with which word to use instead of “liberal” or “conservative” when talking about ideas in the Mennonite church. These words seem to divide and classify people who should be caring about each other and showing by example what Christ’s love looks like.
Then I discovered one word that would work for either word: “radical.” I like it a lot, and Yoder-Short did use it at one point in her article. Merriam-Webster’s Online Dictionary gives this definition: “marked by a considerable departure from the usual or traditional.” Jesus was radical. His teachings are radical, and since I’m a follower of his, I don’t mind being called radical.
Yoder-Short mentioned listening to each other. What better way to bring understanding. It doesn’t mean we will necessarily agree. When I really listen to someone, I learn to know that person better and gain an understanding of where he or she is coming from. It feels good to connect, even if we have different views.
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