How Do We Do Our Theology?

[AngelusSax]

The title asks the question precisely. How do we do our theology? Many people think of theology as something that is to be read, discussed, thought about. Luther understood, as we should, that theology isn't just what we say and think and debate about, it's what we do. It's how we are to live our lives. So how do we do that?

Share stories, either of yourself, or your church. For example, our theology is one that includes helping the needy. My congregation hosts a mobile food pantry twice per month, an annual "Tools-4-School" supplies giveaway, and a "Christmas with Dignity" giveaway which aims to provide presents for kids to give to parents and vice versa. There's no need to prove that one is needy, just show up (for the school thing, kids must be present to avoid having adults just grab bookbags and sell them at flea markets, which is sensible I think).

Anyone have stories of how our theology is played out by our churches? Or for that matter, by you or a friend or small group of people you know?

Note: This isn't meant to be a thread bragging about our good works (for who can claim good works but God alone through us as vessels, exercising free will but with God still in control in that mystery known as life as a Christian?). This is simply a feel-good thread, where others can see testimony of God's grace through us living our our theology, and perhaps even be inspired to go and do likewise in their own community.

 

[doulos_tou_kuriou]

It may sound generic but to me is essential, how theology plays out in worship and liturgy. It reflects the active salvific work of God in our lives and I think sends us out the door a new person, justified, forgiven, and commissioned.

A personal practice that I learned when I served as a hospital chaplain was what we call story theology. This is an exercise in trying to connect the stories of our lives with the biblical narrative and see how we as individuals and as communties fit within that great narrative today. The power it has in offering guidance, hope, and assurance is amazing. It is very important in my view towards practical theology. Some people have also utilized this method brilliantly in other areas of theological practice such as preaching. My mentor Walter Wangerin Jr. was perhaps the best I've ever known at this. If you have ever read his books or articles (he writes quarterly for "The Lutheran") or ever had the privilage to hear him preach you can see this practice done brilliantly.

Pax