Rome 2.0

by

Sometimes I mistake wishful thinking for Christian hope.

I like to believe that the world is incrementally inching down a path leading to the kingdom values Jesus talked about. Becoming more aware of issues, confronting injustice in varying forms, advocating for climate stewardship: all these things, aided by technology and instant communication, are hopeful.

Then Russia invades Ukraine.

Our feelings for the people living in the dark shadow of war and death are palpable. In our varied reactions to what is happening in eastern Europe, we are all united around an empathy for the sufferers and a new focus for our prayers.

Another curious reaction I had was finding myself turning to my, admittedly, least favorite book of the Bible. Revelation.

As I re-read some of the passages, they reminded me that we Christians are challenged to live with a hope that, regardless of the times when nations act like Rome 2.0, God still works through Jesus 1.0. The Resurrection started a force that is long-suffering but ultimately wins in the end.

Throughout history, the faithful have searched many ways to address the beasts rising from sea and land. Some have advocated pacifism, and some have followed the just war theory. Still others have taken the path of Bonhoeffer in World War 2. But they’ve all prayed the same prayers, and all have believed that the last kingdom standing will be God’s.

I recall a story where a man told of a time when, as a boy, the 8th grade bully picked on him. As a young Christian, he didn’t know whether he should fight back or not. I forget the course he chose as a boy, but remember his response as a man when asked what happened to the 8th grade bully. “He met the 9th grade bully.”

God is the architect of the new heaven and earth, and stronger than anyone choosing to erect a lesser kingdom. Such times as these serve to remind us that this is the hope we live our lives on, regardless of the latest CNN headlines.

“Come, Lord Jesus! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all.” (Revelation 22:20-21)

The Rev. Greg Weeks is a retired clergy member of the Missouri Annual Conference. This post is republished with permission from his blog.