Discussion questions for ch 8

Life in the Spirit

 


1.   Worldview: Did Sallie McFague’s theology stretch your understanding of:

God’s relationship with the world?

Salvation?

Christian discipleship?

 

 

 

2.  Economics:  Did Sallie McFague’s arguments for ecological economics persuade you?  If so:

 

What could scientists do to work for change?

What can economists do?

What can you do?

 

3.   Spirituality: What does McFague mean by ‘the cruciform life’?

 

How does prayerful awareness of God’s presence support a cruciform life?

What spiritual practices could support the ‘abundant life’?

 

4.   Discipleship:  Life Abundant points to John Woolman and Dorothy Day as models for discipleship  (pp 186-195).   Another model could be Rachel Carson, the marine biologist whose book Silent Spring and other writings are credited with advancing the global environmental movement. Because of her work as a marine biologist, Carson grew into a fierce and unwavering commitment to environmental advocacy.

 

Remembering John Woolman, could a simpler lifestyle bring you closer to the abundant life?  


Remembering Dorothy Day,
can our faith communities grow in mutual sharing and  demonstrate practical compassion for others beyond the community?


Remembering Rachel Carson,  can we, too, grow in our commitment to saving the environment? 

 

5 .  Breaking addiction: Do you see signs of addiction to consumerism in yourself and/or your friends?  What concrete actions could you take to move toward more healthy living?


6.  Advocating change:  Life Abundant invites readers to envision a counter-cultural abundant life. What are some ways you and your faith community could become a voice for this vision of the abundant life?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Giving voice to every creature under heaven * 

 

You alone are God, living and true,
living in light inaccessible from before time and forever.

Fountain of life and source of all goodness,
you made all things and fill them with your blessing;
you created them to rejoice in the splendor of your radiance.

Countless throngs of angels stand before you to serve you night and day;
and, beholding the glory of your presence, they offer you unceasing praise.

Joining with them, and giving voice to every creature under heaven,
we acclaim you, and glorify your Name….

 

* Words from Eucharistic Prayer D (Book of Common Prayer, p.  372-375)
adapted from the 4th c Liturgy of St. Basil, and used today by

Roman Catholic, Anglican, Lutheran, Coptic, Orthodox and many Protestant Churches.
  

 

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