Such a Strange Way to Save The World

Column by Rev. Dr. Mark Sandlin on December, 19 2024

When it comes to “saving the world,” I am much more interested in the life and teachings of Jesus than I am in any divinely ordered sacrificial actions that humanity has overly burdened the stories with. Even in the stories themselves, we see signs of the importance of his life and teachings.

Reproductive Rights and the Bible

Column by Rev. Dr. Mark Sandlin on September, 12 2024

First of all, the New Testament doesn’t directly deal with the issue of abortion or even when life begins. And, the Old Testament or the Jewish Bible turns out to not be anti-abortion at all.

Christians Caring for Creation

Column by Rev. Dr. Mark Sandlin on June, 13 2024

There is not much in this world that I would call a miracle, but the world itself definitely is. It’s existence and ability to support and sustain the life that it has is simply improbable. How dare humanity so go about to indifferently as we are destroying a miracle.

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.