Now Is the Time

Column by Rev. Dr. Mark Sandlin on February, 29 2024

“The whirlwinds of revolt will continue to shake the foundations of our nation until the bright day of justice emerges.” If you did not know already, it will not surprise you to know that quote is from the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
 

My Easter/Christmas Scripture Conundrum

Column by Rev. Dr. Mark Sandlin on November, 9 2023

In the majority of Christian churches every Easter and frequently around Christmas, we hear scripture reading proclaiming, “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness – on them, light has shined,” and I have to say, it really bothers me.

Down with Christian Nationalism

Column by Rev. Dr. Mark Sandlin on August, 3 2023

I’d even go as far as to say the modern version of Dominionism, that’s now called Christian Nationalism, is nothing like the teachings of the man who said, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” 

The Divine Within

Column by Rev. Dr. Mark Sandlin on April, 27 2023

Namasté: “The Divine in me honors the Divine in you.” In my way of seeing it, namasté includes the understanding that we all are one.

More God in Us, Less Us in God

Column by Rev. Dr. Mark Sandlin on January, 12 2023

Few progressive Christians believe that God is something we can truly ever fully understand. Yet, in constantly choosing to anthropomorphize God, we provide ourselves with fertile mental ground for believing we are doing just that.

President Trump the 2nd Christ?

Column by Rev. Dr. Mark Sandlin on September, 29 2022

“President Donald J. Trump, The Son of Man – The Christ.” That’s the title of a book that is pictured in a meme making its way around social media. While it might sound like some kind of satirical production, it is not.

Jesus – Queer Theology Incarnate

Column by Rev. Dr. Mark Sandlin on June, 9 2022

In his book “Radical Love: An Introduction to Queer Theology”. The Rev. Dr. Patrick Cheng says, “God is the very manifestation of a love that is so extreme that it dissolves existing boundaries.” So, it seems to me, living a life that dismantles existing boundaries is the very definition of being in relationship with God.

American Christianity as a Cover for Racism

Column by Rev. Dr. Mark Sandlin on February, 3 2022

 
Race plays a profound role in all aspects of life in the United States. When you stop to think about it, that is absolutely astounding …

The “Emerging” Theology this Straight Minister Loves

Column by Rev. Dr. Mark Sandlin on October, 7 2021

As I read the first Creation story and put it in conversation with the big bang theory, there is a message that comes through loudly: Creation comes from unbinding everything in order to give it meaning. I would go as far as to say the best, most remarkable creations always do just that, unbind things, breakdown barriers and boundaries.

Beautifully Entangled

Column by Rev. Dr. Mark Sandlin on June, 24 2021

Could it be, as some psychologists suggest, that ‘pure’ altruism doesn’t exist? According to them, when we help strangers, there is always some benefit to us personally, even if we’re not aware of it. This could include gaining respect from others, helping us feel good about ourselves, or for some Christians it could increase our chances of getting into heaven.