Tag Archives: nationalism

Us vs. Them

Posted on May 30, 2024 by mitchteemley

I am perpetually disturbed by the rise of patriotic nationalism worldwide. Powered by the false logic of protecting “our own,” each successive wave crashes down with increasing vehemence on any convenient scapegoat that can be blamed. A popular rallying cry … Continue reading →

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Scapegoatism

Posted on August 1, 2022 by mitchteemley

Thought for the Week Scapegoats were the animals the ancient Hebrews laid their hands on in order to cast away their sins. It was a symbolic act, meaning, “I’m ashamed of the evil in myself and I publicly disown it.” … Continue reading →

Posted in Culture | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 38 Comments

Should I Celebrate or Not?

Posted on July 3, 2022 by mitchteemley

Tomorrow is the day America celebrates its founding. One of my Facebook friends announced that as a follower of Jesus, and therefore a citizen of no earthly realm, he steers clear of national celebrations. He has a point, especially in … Continue reading →

Posted in For Pastors and Teachers, Quips and Quotes, Religion/Faith | Tagged , , , , , , | 31 Comments

Us vs. Them

Posted on July 16, 2018 by mitchteemley

“There is no ‘them.’ There never was. There is only us.” I wrote this brief meditation on the rise of protective nationalism two years ago. It’s still happening, and I’m still against it. You?

Posted in Culture, Quips and Quotes | Tagged , , , , , , , | 25 Comments

Scapegoat

Posted on August 15, 2017 by mitchteemley

Scapegoats were the animals the ancient Hebrews laid their hands on in order to cast away their sins. It was a symbolic act, meaning, “I’m ashamed of the evil in myself and I publicly disown it.” The key to healing … Continue reading →

Posted in Culture, For Pastors and Teachers | Tagged , , , , , , , | 26 Comments

To Celebrate…or Not?

Posted on July 4, 2017 by mitchteemley

Today is the day America celebrates its founding. I wasn’t going to post anything. But then a Facebook friend announced that, as a follower of Jesus–and therefore as a citizen of no earthly kingdom but rather of God’s kingdom–he steers … Continue reading →

Posted in For Pastors and Teachers, Quips and Quotes, Religion/Faith | Tagged , , , , , , | 29 Comments

Us vs. Them

Posted on June 30, 2016 by mitchteemley

I am profoundly disturbed by the current rise of nationalism in Europe, in the Americas, in the Middle East, in nearly every nation on earth. Powered by the false logic of isolationism and protectionism, each successive wave of nationalism crashes … Continue reading →

Posted in Culture, Quips and Quotes | Tagged , , , , , , , | 45 Comments