A Tonic

During Advent, I’ve been thinking about what it means to redeem masculinity. Most models of manhood emphasize a counterfeit form of “strength” that is oblivious to the suffering of others. Being a man, however, does not have to be controlling and abusive - or passive and emotionally distant either. Real men take sides. They take cues from women and queer folk and others who are marginalized. Real men possess a passion for other people. They are nurturing, present, playful, open-hearted, humble and tender. Real men turn the toxic into a tonic – a wonderful phrase from my friend Johari Jabir. 

This is true for christianity too. All the hate and harm done in the name of Jesus brings some serious tension to “being a christian.” But I believe in digging deeper into the biblical tradition so we can compost christianity. Let the oppressive elements decay – and water the love-and-liberation stuff so we can grow Something Else. Back in the day, Frederick Douglass called the white christianity that sanctified slavery “the boldest of all frauds.” Douglass was a christian, but he refused to let the fraud have the final word. The world will be a better place if we, like Douglass, turn toxic faith into a tonic – infused with a Love that lays down its life for others.