Dreaming
With so much bad news threatening to drown out hope, I felt challenged to write down a positive vision (Habakkuk 2).
I dream of a world without violence and the threat of violence (Isa. 11). In this world, even defensive weapons have been destroyed (Ps. 46). Resources are shared—not hoarded— because the worth of a human being far exceeds the worth of anything (Matt. 6). In this world, everyone can eat. They live in beloved community and “share everything in common” (Acts 2). Power is shared, too—not hoarded—and not lorded over others (Matt. 20). In this world, no one is afraid; each person knows deeply that they are loved (1 John 4). Every person understands that we belong to each other (1 Cor. 12).
People spend their time looking out for and responding to the needs and concerns of others (Phil. 2), especially those with whom they disagree (Luke 6). Conflict is understood as a catalyst to growth and healing, so it is not hidden or ignored (Matt. 5). Conflict becomes the way to deepen relationships instead of the excuse for ending them (Rom. 5, Col. 1). Conflict is an opportunity to better understand a person or perspective (James 1). Such understanding leads to greater patience—a cherished virtue (Gal. 5)—and often leads to creating new solutions, over time and with careful attention.
Adults teach children to reject the demands of greed (Luke 12). Practicing an ability to self-reflect, discern, and choose the good is a rite of passage (or “freedom”, Gal. 5). Rather than living lonely, isolated lives, people all have a place in beloved community. They speak their pain and grief to others who have learned how to listen deeply, respond appropriately, and offer comfort with their presence and their practical help. They share their joys. They don’t hide their weaknesses. They apologize. They forgive. They grow together, individually and collectively becoming more truly themselves (Eph. 4).
Some Christians tell me this dream is impossible in this world. Surely, it is aspirational and far from our current reality. Yet, I’ve experienced joyful tastes of this world to come in various communities and friendships. What more might be possible? Nothing is impossible with God (Luke 1). Did not Jesus send the Holy Spirit and say, “You will do greater things than I have done” (John 14)? Could it be that the unfolding dream of a whole and flourishing humanity lives by faith in us (Heb. 11)?
I am sad when I see the church dealing in sin management, shame, fear, exclusion, and control—patterns of worldly power. Jesus didn’t teach fear (John 14), exclusion (Mark 9), fixation on personal sins (John 3, John 8), or domination and worldly power games (Matt. 20). Quite the opposite, Jesus lay down his life for others. He rejects violence and domination (Matt. 26, John 18). His new commandment is love (John 13). Church, we need to renew our minds to think like Jesus (Rom. 12).
If you feel that resisting wars and famine is in vain (Matt. 24), remember that Jesus told his friends how to respond in these moments—to feed the hungry, welcome strangers, clothe the naked, heal the sick, and visit prisoners (Matt. 25). May Christians be known for such love (John 13).
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In its third year of war, Sudan is now in its second year of famine. Food prices are rising as people starve in isolated & blockaded areas. The closure of USAID stopped funding for many lifesaving programs. Here are some ways you can help.
URGENT NUTRITIONAL NEEDS
Give to Mother of Mercy Hospital, Treating Malnourished Patients
Located in Gidel, South Kordofan (read more)Give to Displacement & Health Relief Network
Located in El Fasher in DarfurGive to Hope Relief and Rehabilitation For Disabilities Support
Located in South Kordofan (read more)Give to Hope and Haven for Refugees
Located in Al Geneina, Darfur; Adre refugee camp in Chad; Humanitarian kitchens across Sudan
ADDITIONAL NUTRITIONAL NEEDS
Give to Al Abbasiya
Located in Omdurman, devastated by urban warfareGive to Khartoum Kitchen Appeal
Located in Khartoum, devastated by urban warfareGive to Trauma Rescue Aid
Located in Uganda, feeding the Sudanese refugee community
Jennie Telfer is Peace Catalyst mobilizer and conflict transformation trainer based in South Korea. In cooperation with Korean and Sudanese communities, Jennie mobilizes people for practical solidarity across lines of difference through peace education, advocacy, and humanitarian engagement.
