Psychology has done a wonderful job of giving us words and concepts such as vulnerability and the false or shadow self to talk about our weaknesses. The AA or 12 step program starts with the admission of powerlessness. The Bible starts (in Genesis) with two concepts of humanity: Original goodness Original sin We need a … Continue reading Advent Hope
Pastoral Theology
Don’t Waste The Pain
You'll need community, care, and courage. You'll need a power bigger than you.
Listening: the art of Pastoral Presence
When I think about our work, I think of the God who listens. He hears our cries, petitions, longings, and hopes. In Jesus, we find the Good Shepherd making space for others to share their stories (i.e. Samaritan woman, the blind man at the pool). We see them share specifics as Jesus asks poignant questions. … Continue reading Listening: the art of Pastoral Presence
The re-imaging of God and the importance of it
We must create spaces for us (and others) to kill our versions of God that are not coherent with life and scripture. In some ways, we must become atheists in order to confront ill-images of God. The Israelites did it through protest and lament (see the Exodus story and the Psalms). The hope is that … Continue reading The re-imaging of God and the importance of it
Roy Inzunza 