Over the last few days I have been comparing the Presence U model with the ancient hymn in Philippians chapter 2. In this post I want to take a step back and ask to what extent this is a legitimate exercise. I don't think I'm going to be able to come to a conclusive argument either way but I think it is important in any theological work to reflect on the methods deployed.
I have already stated several times that I do not think the U model and the hymn are the same thing. They are images of each other and whilst I don't think it is even desirable to reduce them to a single process, it may be helpful to allow them to inform each other.
There is no copyright on the U shape. The pattern of death and resurrection can be found in many faiths. Indeed, Christian mission would be more difficult if this were not the case. This congruence between faiths allows for the exploration of common ground. Theologians and missiologists call this inculturation.
The U model was devised for use in businesses by people asking how they might meet the challenges of climate change. It is not a religious exercise, although it has religious connotations. This in itself is an opening for conversations about matters of faith.
However, we should be aware that it is possible the U model might consciously or unconsciously have been influenced by Christian theology. In places the book resonates with allusions to gospel material. None of the authors in their biographies lay claim to a Christian faith although it is hard to imagine they have been shielded entirely from its influences growing up in the United States. But these images are a part of our culture. Anyone exploring matters of psychology, spirituality or philosophy is likely to encounter them.
We should also be mindful of Missio Dei, where it is understood the spirit of God goes before us into communities (similar to if not the same as Wesley's 'prevenient grace'). The issues facing us are so severe say the authors they cannot identify any power other than business able to effect the necessary changes. In terms of how God may be working through humanity to mitigate climate change, it is not impossible that businesses have a crucial part to play in it, especially considering their role in causing it.
So, let me try to summarise the mutual advantage of an interplay between these movements. It seems to me that Presence is a timely reminder to the churches of the power of conversations to effect change. They offer us an opportunity to recall how the spirit transforms our values and helps us work collaboratively for the welfare of humanity and the whole cosmos. In return, the Christian faith offers a challenge to Presence - is it likely that setting aside our assumptions and picking up new ones is enough? Sooner or later the challenge will be to make material sacrifices. Certainly it is apparent current global financial systems cannot last if they are to be fair and far less exploitative of the enviromment. This implies a move towards a mutual approach to economics. This will require a spiritual change which seems to go beyond what Presence has experienced so far.
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