Each Saturday the Tennessean publishes an opinion from a local pastor or other religious cleric. Yesterday’s was too good not to share. Enjoy and send a thanks to the editor at The Tennessean if you have a minute!
Mahatma Gandhi was the preeminent leader of Indian independence. His method of choice? Non-violent, civil disobedience.
He was deeply concerned with matters of peace and justice but, sadly, was assassinated on Jan. 30, 1948. Gandhi once famously said, “I would have been a Christian if not for all the Christians.” He named the “Seven Blunders of the World That Lead to Violence” and gave them to his grandson days before his assassination. These are now etched into human history, still speaking to our modern world.
1. Wealth without work. This could be defined as “getting something for nothing.” Think of Wall Street scandals, ponzi schemes and shady business deals. Also, think of able bodies who simply choose to work the system. Ours is a “get rich quick” culture and many are not willing to work hard in the process, doing the bare minimum to get by and wanting to reap the rewards without paying the price.
2. Pleasure without conscience. It’s a culture obsessed with sex and sexuality. More and more children are born out of wedlock, which often leads to other problems. Many believe, “if it feels good, do it!” Worry about the consequences later. Educational issues are often tied to the breakdown of the family and the lack of responsible parenting. Teachers can only do so much with little support in the home.
3. Knowledge without character. There is an abundance of knowledge, but is there any wisdom? Bernard of Clairvaux once said: “There are those who seek knowledge for the sake of knowledge; that is curiosity. There are those who seek knowledge to be known by others; that is vanity. There are those who seek knowledge in order to serve; that is love.” Are we growing and loving while we are learning?
4. Commerce without morality. How are employees treated? Are they paid a fair wage and shown respect? It is possible to succeed in business, remain ethical and treat people fairly. Many do it well. Jesus said, “What good is it to gain the whole world but forfeit your life?” There is more to life than chasing the almighty dollar.
5. Science without humanity.
The technological advances in the medical world are astounding. It becomes tempting for humans to think that they can play God. Science should strengthen faith.
6. Worship without sacrifice. As our culture becomes more individualized, sacrificing to help others may seem like a foreign concept. Many choose to worship the mirror. Phillips Brooks says, “Over the past several decades we have built a moral ecology around the Big Me, around the belief in a golden figure inside. This has led to a rise in narcissism and self-aggrandizement.” Jesus taught, “Deny self.” How popular is that?
7. Politics without principle. What are we willing to stand for and speak up for? What issues really matter? Do moderates still have a place at the table or have they been drowned out by all the crazies? When do we quit fighting, compromise and work together?
Governing and leadership have always required compromise. Gandhi once prayed: “I offer you peace. I offer you love. I offer you friendship. I see your beauty. I hear your need. I feel your feelings. My wisdom flows from the highest source. I salute that source in you. Let us work together for unity and love.”
The Rev. Dr. Clay Stauffer is senior minister of Woodmont Christian Church
Thank you Rev. Stauffer; these words are as important in today’s world as they were a century ago