Lesson 1
Good day, friends and seekers of truth and compassion. Today we gather to explore the profound realm of solidarity, a path often obscured by the noise of the world’s troubles. Throughout the course we will encounter the heart of Christianity, a faith rooted in God’s boundless love that reaches out to all of creation. As we journey through these lessons, may we embody the essence of love, solidarity, and inclusivity, shaping a community where all souls find acceptance and belonging. May our hearts be open to the sacred bond that unites us with those often rejected and forgotten, those standing in the shadows and margins of society.:
God’s Radical Solidarity with Reality
Christianity’s essence lies in understanding God’s solidarity—loving and profound—with all people and the very fabric of reality. Through Jesus of Nazareth, God’s expansive, all-encompassing perspective is unveiled before us. In this light, we can view life as a call to stand in unwavering solidarity with every facet of existence. The Incarnation itself, symbolized by the cross, exemplifies God’s solidarity over judgment—a transformative act that reverberates through time. In imitating Jesus, we see how he embraced diverse souls, from Gentiles and tax collectors to sinners and eunuchs. Jesus showed us that otherness is not to be feared, but celebrated and welcomed.
Inclusion Over Exclusion
The term “catholic” in its truest sense, means universal. The heart of Christianity calls us to emulate Jesus by embodying inclusion rather than exclusion. Jesus’ ministry exemplified inclusion as he embraced all, refusing to exclude even exclusion itself. This profound teaching guides us to view every person as a unique expression of God’s love, deserving of our unwavering acceptance. In doing so, we foster a community that reflects the full spectrum of humanity, transcending societal boundaries and divisions.
The Liberating Message of Eunuchs
Drawing from Isaiah’s wisdom and author Shannon Kearns’ insight, we find a message of liberation in the experiences of eunuchs. Their story reveals God’s inclusive solidarity, offering them an enduring legacy. This message echoes loudly in our present times, resonating with marginalized individuals who find solace in being seen and heard. The message challenges us to reject confining boxes, recognizing that true freedom lies in embracing our full selves and creating space for others to do the same. We are summoned to question who is excluded, who is marginalized, and who lacks a space to flourish. The essence of the message is that all are welcome in the kingdom of God, not needing to change to become worthy, for their desire for inclusion makes them inherently worthy.
In conclusion, my fellow seekers, the heart of Christianity invites us into a profound journey of love, solidarity, and inclusivity. As we meditate upon these concepts, let us embark on a path that mirrors God’s expansive love and Jesus’ example of embracing all. Let us heed the call to create a community where anyone who desires the water of acceptance and belonging is warmly welcomed.