Take me to Church?
Luke’s Gospel, chapter 21:5–21, felt like a fitting parallel to our own temple and building challenges at HUC. Using the song Take Me to Church added a haunting tone. This song is often seen within the LGBTQ community as a commentary on institutional hypocrisy and the harm done by the church.
Luke’s account is considered apocalyptic writing, using imagery and language of the end times. Scholars suggest it is not so much about the end of the world as it is an invitation to look “behind the curtain” at what is being revealed. Whether we like it or not, there are dark signs in the world, and we are called to keep our eyes wide open with loving attention to what is right in front of us and to who is present with us.
Second Gaze
Jesus says this kind of endurance strengthens our souls. Paying deep attention to the present is not easy, but it calms and deepens us. It slows us down and helps us surrender, not to give up, but to turn inward so that Love can be lived and discovered as balm for the soul.
