We continue our worship series,World Cup, by focusing on the writing and teaching of a prophetic theologian/pastor from one of the countries competing in this year’s World Cup. We will turn our attention to George Tinker, a prominent American Indian theologian, this Sunday. Tinker teaches at a United Methodist seminary in Denver. His writing and work will challenge us to consider US independence very differently than it is commonly depicted in dominant tellings of US history.
Outline for World Cup
- June 15: Genesis 1.1-2.4a (Brazil – Ivone Gebara)
- June 22: Genesis 22.1-14 (Ghana – Mercy Amba Oduyoye)
- June 29: Genesis 21.8-21 (Croatia – Miroslav Volf)
- July 6: Romans 7.15-25a (USA – George Tinker)
- July 13: Genesis 25.19-34 (Germany – Marion Grau)
What experience, if any, have you had with American Indians.
Read Romans 7.15-25a.
As we celebrate independence this week, our faith tradition calls us to remember the complexities that gave rise to our freedom. American Indians have suffered throughout the generations in our country. Paul’s letter to the church in Rome reminds us of our own propensity to sin and our own complicity in harming others. Paul writes, 15I do not understand my own actions. For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate. How is this for you?