Church is taking on a new look. No longer enduring outgrown concepts we read Scriptures with healthy skepticism.

For example, although we read in the Gospel John that Jesus “went out, bearing His own cross, to the spot called The Place of the Skull,” the mass populace doesn’t haul wooden crosses to what is referred to as Golgotha. Taking up the cross is interpreted metaphorically.

We take up the cross of health problems, endure the indignity, and overcome the issue with grace, truth, and love.

We take up the cross of relationship mishaps and mend connections.

We take up the cross of adapting to new concepts of church and God. Old sermons are replaced with new sermons. Rituals become more practical. Idolatrous devotion is replaced with honest hard work. We follow spiritual leaders instead of repeat their words.

The metaphorical interpretations will continue, let’s keep up with them and see church, not as safety-valve, but as a living breathing force of inclusive oneness.