Christians are a strange people. In general, we’re exilic and designed to be subcultural. A Christian on center stage, in the flow of culture, wooing large followings feels counter to the message of Christ. I say feel because I also know the world we live in. It is a media-driven, cyber-infused time in history in which any particular message can be broadcast anywhere on planet earth. On one hand, I say, Yay for technology. I’m more than grateful the good news of the kingdom of God is accessible to so many.
On the other hand, I cringe for our future as humans—and certainly as Christians—as we sink deeper into a system that demands we promote, brand, and broadcast our every feeling, opinion, and tirade on an open platform. This week I read Francis Chan’s impassioned plan to leave the comfort of America for the mission field. I was challenged as he said, “I’m going to stand before Him (God) one day and I’m going to be judged by Him, and I don’t want to be judged as a coward.” If you’ve followed Chan’s trajectory, he has the freedom and resources to do anything. He could write another bestseller. He could certainly pastor another megachurch. Instead, he chooses to leave.
He chooses exile. He’s had his fill of living in the mushy middle of American narcissism and he’s electing for the ragged edges. Some are shocked by his choice. Others are applauding his faith. But here’s the thing: isn’t that where we’re meant to be too? Exiled. On the edge. Away from the power center. The bible seems to make the case.
1 Peter 2:11 Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles . . .
Hebrews 13:12-14 So Jesus also suffered outside the gate in order to sanctify the people through his own blood. Therefore let us go to him outside the camp and bear the reproach he endured. For here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city that is to come.
Some of us have been exiled because our faith has sharp edges to it. We didn’t choose exile, but we find ourselves there anyway. We’re living “outside the camp bearing the reproach” of Christ. And it’s in these moments we will decide where we want to live. Will we scrape, claw, and rationalize our way back into the camp (the hearts and approval of this finicky world) or will we lean into our exile as sons and daughters of God?
Jesus began his ministry in the desert and ended his ministry outside the city. It seems as though these are places we should be comfortable in.
