Lutherans in the 21st century must leave the playing field of theological irrelevancy. The theology of the cross is a term coined by Martin Luther Follow the link if you want to read more about Theologica Crucis. Properly understood, the theology of the cross picks up on the Buddha's Four Noble Truths. (See "The Feeling Buddha" by David Brazier for more on what follows.)
1. Dukkah - affliction (suffering) is part of an authentic life. It cannot be avoided
2. Samudaya - this suffering results in passions in us. These passions are noble but they can be inflamed by the ego traits of greed, hate, or oblivion.
3. Niroda - this is the way passions can be controlled and be directed to servoce to others.
4. Nirvana - a state of enlightenment by those who choose the way to direct passions to a fruitful happy life. Jesus calls the the Kingdom of heaven.
If we Lutherans want to be relevant in the 21st century, I believe we must talk about the theology of nature and grace - with non violence as the keystone. The link will take you to a 30 minute interview with Joseph Sittler, recorded at Pacific Lutheran Seminary, Berkeley, in 1981. Sittler talked about environmentalism his whole life. Care of the earth and nature is central to this Debonaire Giant.
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