Absolut-ion (#4)

I won’t disclose any names, but I recently had a silly conversation with a few congregants. One said a second was seeking absolution from the pastor. The second said something like, “Yeah, that’s what you drink with cranberry juice right?” How many times have folks confused drinking Absolut vodka with seeking absolution? I’m not even sure how to collect that data. How often do we attempt to regain a sense of balance and normalcy by doing something other than what might help, which is asking for forgiveness? It works the other way too. Rather than seeking to forgive, we numb ourselves to the pain, disappointment, or betrayal. It seems completely unknown to members, but the ELCA offers the opportunity for individual forgiveness. You can find it in the ELW (cranberry book of worship) near the corporate confessions section. I can hear some folks grumbling already that “it sounds too Catholic.” I ask, “Why should it matter? A sound spiritual practice is a sound spiritual practice.” What happens in individual confession? It varies, but it is an opportunity to discuss one or more sins or temptations that trouble you. It’s an opportunity to look at the precursors and consequences of the behavior, thought, or emotion and to contemplate ways to reduce or remove the temptation. The minister is there to speak aloud the words of Christ’s promise of forgiveness of sins. Sometimes just exposing our fears and concerns and learning that we are not alone helps us to be less anxious or ashamed. Absolut might loosen the tongue, but it is a poor substitute for the assurance of reconciliation. [If you insist on trying the Absolut path first, at least stick with the liturgical color. The flavors Kurant and Berri Acai have purple labels.]