I think this may have to do with basketball, specifically NCAA basketball. It involves something called brackets whereby one counts down in groups of four (? or so) until winning teams play other winning teams and all are eliminated except one, the winner of March Madness.
Is this correct?
If not, somebody let me know. (And, just so you know -- I'm pulling for Mississippi Valley State because I grew up in the Mississippi. Besides, the Hornfrogs are having their own problems this year, and my other alma maters -- SMU and Mississippi State -- aren't anywhere on anyone's bracket as far as I know.)
I do believe, however, there's another kind of March Madness this year. And its not about fun and basketball and wonderful, dedicated young athletes.
Its about words.
Mean words.
Hard words.
Shout so loud no one can be heard over you words.
Words of exclusion.
Words of control.
Words of oppression.
This other March Madness has to do with all the highly charged rhetoric in the public sphere in the midst of this election year. Anxiety is high. Emotions are high. Frustration is high on all sides. We get that. But when words are used to slander rather than thoughtfully debate, it is a sin. When words are used to denigrate, rather than lift-up, no matter the perspective, it is a sin. When words are used to win at all costs, no matter who is hurt, rather than seek compromise for the good of all, it is a sin.
I don't care how you vote. Just vote.
I don't care who you vote for. Just make an informed choice.
I don't even care what you think about things. Just think -- really THINK -- about things.
And be grateful that we live in such a place and time that we can say what we feel compelled to say without fear of retribution or oppression.
But, when words are unfounded and hurtful, used just to prove a point or to bully, we do not honor that gift called free speech or the blessed souls who have died to protect it, or the Creator who has given us this life in the first place.
Use your voice to lift up, not tear down. Seek what is best for all people and all creation, charged to our oversight. Don't let this kind of 'madness' prevail. And, may the best team win.
See you in church this Lent.
Pastor a.
PS Go Mississippi Valley State!!!!!
