Author: Walter Thiessen

Peter Fitch shared ideas from a chapter in a book by Thomas Merton called “Tradition and Revolution.” Merton thinks that there is a form of traditionalism which is not helpful, just as there is a form of revolution which changes things only in appearance. And yet, there is something priceless, given by God, in the heart of tradition, and there is such a thing as a true revolution, which continually renews the heart as we turn back again and again to the revolutionary message of Jesus.

Peter Fitch shares some thoughts about a subtle distinction that divides Christians, as well as others, into completely opposing attitudes toward social issues. Behind the obvious differences that come with being Orthodox, or Catholic, or Protestant, there are very different attitudes and practices in relation to power. Some individuals and groups have chosen coercion over a form of self-emptying, co-suffering love. Many have flipped and flopped from one kind of power to the other, at times looking like Jesus and at other times looking like His opposite. Understanding this may help us avoid manipulation and the temptation to oppress others in various ways.

Peter Fitch spoke today about C. S. Lewis, telling some of the stories about complications that he faced in his life and career. Through it all he became a treasured writer who helped a great many people around the world. Even after his death, the complications continued as people dealt with his literary legacy. Before the talk we watched a video by Justin Timberlake and Chris Stapleton called “Say Something” as it speaks about the feelings we have in the midst of life’s complexities. Then Michael Leung shared some music that he created on the piano. After the talk, we watched a video of Leon Bridges called “River.”