There has been a lot of talk in theological circles about “exile”. (Most notably Rob Bell but also Tim Keel has an article mentioning similar thoughts.) Historically this has been in reference to Israel but also in modern history to salvation in Christianity. I’ve been wondering lately if by emphasising on salvation and neglecting other areas where “leaving exile” is needed we are limiting everything the Gospel story is about. Some are already suggesting this but I’m going to be more specific for this post.
I guess I’m suggesting that in America I wish it were true that we were leading people out of exile and oppression of the standard American diet. You may argue “in Christ I have the liberty to eat or not eat what I want”. And this is true, but there is a big difference between doing something just because you can that is harmful and doing something positive motivated by Love. Just like conservative baptists I’ve known make a gigantic leap of logic by saying “once you have received salvation sin really shouldn’t even be a problem” , I’m saying, I wish people were compelled by their “life more abundantly” to include minimizing continuing in the rituals of the standard American diet. This could easily sound like legalism and if thats what you want it to be then so be it. But a good friend told me once, “where there is love there is no need for legalism” and I totally buy into that.
As ungrateful as it sounds Jesus can do more for you than just flip the switch from “Going to hell” to “Going to heaven”. Just a thought at least. All of this was just to get you to read this article and consider the implications for your life and health. Its long but well worth it. The article makes the case pretty clear. Obviously a disclaimer is not needed for me as we all know I love greasy totally awesome cheeseburgers, Krispy Kremes and Chinese buffets…I’m working on that.
Just a dude with a blog that probably shouldn't have one.
