In contemporary theology the Trinity has become a symbol of an interacting diversity in unity: God is expressed in three activities (“Persons”) of creating, redeeming, giving life. While each “Person” is different, yet they live in dynamic interaction with each other. A Greek word perichoresis expresses it : peri (around) choresis (a dance). The three Persons dance together, hence the modern hymn “I am the Lord of the Dance”.
This divine and trinitarian community becomes the symbol of all of human existence :
- each of us is called to be part of the dance, with God and with each other
- the Body of Christ, the Church, an interactive community, diverse gifts in shared mission with other faiths, not blurring our Christian heritage, but working together to cross the divides of cultural, racial and credal difference in the interests of peace and well-being for all
- we see our links with all members of God’s family, reaching out to others in a relationship of mutual compassion
- we share in God’s special work of compassion for the poor
- example in today’s reading from 1 Kings 17. 8-16 : Elijah the prophet comes to the widow of Zarephath seeking food. A poor woman, she has very little but gives of what she has, her act of generosity reflecting God’s grace which ensures her food supply is never depleted.
- Jesus’ life-giving compassion is seen in this morning’s Gospel (Luke 7. 11-17) where he restores life to the son of the widow of Nain
- tragic example with the death of Folole Muliaga (woman on a life-support machine at home whose power was cut off for late payment of a bill). The Chair and CEO of powerful corporations and the Prime Minister all descend on a lowly dwelling in Mangere where a family is devastated and grieving. Remote decisions by the powerful are seen as having human consequences in a world where we are all bound to one another.
- the Earth itself and all Creation are part of the Dance also (Genesis 1)
Thus the Trinity is far more than a philosophical attempt to explain what is after all inexplicable mystery. It becomes a symbol of all of existence in the way we relate to God, each other, all of God’s people and creatures on Earth, and indeed the Earth itself. It is the basis for our trust in God which leads to our mission of compassion, justice, peace and stewardship of the Earth.
James K Baxter : (1) Song to the Lord God (2) Song to the Holy Spirit (NZPB pp 160,157)
Lord God, you are above and beyond all things;
Your nature is to love. You put us in the furnace of the world
to learn to love you and love one another (1)
Lord Christ, you are the house in whom we live
The house in which we share the cup of peace
The house of your body that was broken on the cross
The house you have built for us beyond the stars (1)
Lord, Holy Spirit, in the love of friends you are building a new house.
Heaven is with us when you are with us.
You are singing your song in the hearts of the poor.
Guide us, wound us, heal us. Bring us to the Father. (2)
