St. Paul's Cathedral is in the news for the wrong reasons!
The resignation of Giles Fraser, over how to respond to the Occupy London protests, has raised uncomfortable issues. On the one hand, Canon Fraser and others have appeared to speak with a prophetic voice, challenging the greed of our culture and the City which generates so much wealth. On the other hand, the cathedral authorities appear to have taken the side of the rich & powerful, and appear to be more worried about their own health & safety than wider issues.
I wonder what the prophets Amos or Micah might have said!
In our culture, everyone wants to be popular, and to win the public vote. It is striking how many popular TV programmes give 'the public' a chance to vote contestants or participants off the show. We like to feel our voice matters. But with whom do we want to be popular?
But Jesus gave us some stark warnings about what we should value. 'What sorrow awaits you who are praised by the crowds, for their ancestors also praised false prophets.' (Luke 6.26)
Those called by Jesus are called to value His opinion more highly than the fickle moods of the crowds. Trying to fit into the latest fashion will never lead to a God-shaped life. So which side should we take on these complex issues? How can we be in line with the way of Jesus, who cleansed the Temple, and attacked those whose highest value seemed to be making money? Are we prepared to be unfashionable, in order to walk in step with Jesus?
Best wishes,
Richard
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