Whenever a person moves into the arena of transparency about what one has done or said there is a risk taken and an unanswered question, “will I be loved or will I be judged for what was shared.”  The church I knew from childhood through early adulthood communicated dutiful messages about the Christian walk. Somehow the people in this church believed that a good relationship with Christ meant that you have your life together. If you have personal problems or problems in relationship, there is something wrong in your relationship with God. The solution, pray more often, attend church frequently, have more faith and tithe.  The church believed it was theologically on target and correct in its judgement of other faiths.  The love of God communicated that Jesus cares for us. Yet dutiful christian living was promoted.  If you are dutiful (do what the bible says) life will be good. Well what if  someone messed up? Condemnation or judgement of the wrong done was the norm, followed by biblical prescription as how to right the wrong. Suffering and struggle were not accepted as something good, worthy, listened to or understood. 

Is there another way to address problems in church or in the lives of it members? There is a path of being lovingly disruptive.  Jesus was with a group of Pharisees.  Sitting with these men a prostitute came into the room.  She went to Jesus and started crying on his feet. Following her tears, she dried his feet with her hair. She poured an expensive perfume on his feet.  While this was going on Jesus realized the condemnation and disgust as these men peered toward the woman.  Jesus told these religious leaders a story about forgiveness.  When he was finished with the story he asked them who experienced more forgiveness. Their understanding and their response was accurate, then Jesus said to Simon,”…You gave me no oil for my head, but she has put perfume on my feet. That is why I tell you, Simon, that her sins, many as they are, are forgiven: for she has shown me so much love.  But the man who has little to be forgiven has only a little love to give.” Then Jesus said to her , “Your sins are forgiven…its is your faith that has saved you . Go in peace” Luke 7:36-50.

What did Jesus offer from his heart that was spoken? He offered a lovingly disruptive hope for those who understand their wrongs that bring suffering or shame. Opening up our own heart to what we have done will open up a door of forgiveness and Jesus’s love for us. Those who have many sins that are forgiven will guide them toward love, mercy, and greatfulness.

When we know and experience the forgiveness from Jesus, will we offer those who have wronged us or others with love and forgiveness that Jesus offers us?  The life that Jesus lived reveals what it means to be lovingly disruptive.