Sanctification

We read in our book: the Christian tradition has called this state of hopeful, wonder-filled life sanctification. Drawn into the community of God's love, we are made holy in the light of God and understand the holiness of those we encounter as well. The work of God in the world does not end with the resurrection and ascension of Jesus...the work of God continues through God's people as we are enlivened by the Holy Spirit.

The term 'sanctification' can seem daunting, if not foreign in liturgical circles. I remember spending time in the hills of Georgia with some of my husband's family who were part of a religious group called "Christ's Sanctified Holiness." Admittedly it made me a bit nervous as their style and understanding of theology were worlds apart from mine.

What does it mean that God's will is for us to be sanctified? Unfortunately, it seems that this designation has been used in a derogatory way in modern speech. Yet, I think there is a rich biblical tradition and promise that we need to recapture. Technically, “sanctification” is a translation of the Greek word hagiasmos, meaning “holiness” or “a separation.” In the past, God granted us justification, a once-for-all, positional holiness in Christ. Now, God guides us to maturity, a practical, progressive holiness.

There is a fancy Greek word perichoresis which describes the relationship of God, Christ, Holy Spirit as mutuality and equality, a creative energy that literally dances forth (it is where we get the word, choreography).  Theologians have used this concept to teach how the Trinity relates and how we are to interact with one another: putting aside our power structures, especially in helping one another, we are called to foster mutuality and relationship over a benefactor/receiver type of relationship which has an inherently unequal cast to it. Thus, in our relationship with God, we are called to progressive holiness. We might wonder, "how does that happen?"

Part of the equation is simple: do justice, love kindness, walk humbly with your God.  What if we thought of each other with this in mind? What if we humbled ourselves enough to realize that whomever we think we are "helping" may have some way of helping us in return? What if in reality we are more needy than they are? What if we allowed a give and take in the relationship beyond just handing off money or provision? Perhaps this reciprocity lies at the heart of spiritual growth and sanctification.

In Jewish circles the word for charity is tzedakah.  It is tied to the Hebrew word for righteousness.  It is a sacred duty and obligation to engage in tzedakah. What would our lives look like if we acted in this sphere of social justice more often? Beyond just aiding those in need, what if we recognized a responsibility for the well being of the other person: that whatever aid is rendered must help the person become more independent, more whole.

How often do we rob people of their independence? How often do we settle for mailing a donation instead of engaging in relationship? Are we Enablers? Benefactors? Or, are we faithful people trying to live in a sense of gratitude, righteousness, and sanctified living?

In the mix with sanctification is our ultimate value of radical kindness and lavish giving balanced with common sense respect, tough love and the call of each person to live a responsible life.  We do not always strike this balance well, especially in our churches and in our own wounded lives. If we are not to be defined by our seating capacity in our churches, but by our sending capacity, what difference will that make in our community? 

Who is my neighbor? You are. We are. Everyone. Will I open my heart to this reality and allow God to sanctify and bless my grappling at spiritual growth and wholeness this Lent?  

Yes, and I ask God to help me.