Last week we explored how Babel is an archetype of empire in its quest for control. We were challenged: Instead of innovating a tower for the sake of independence and control – we humble ourselves under God, in the pattern of Christ who humbled himself for us (Phil 2:1-11), and see our neighbors as images of God and not plastic objects for exploitation. Rather than communities which devolve into personal spheres of influence marked by pragmatism, efficiency, and management, we’re called to be a spiritual community marked by “unsophisticated helping love” (Bonhoeffer, Life Together). Who can you show “unsophisticated helping love” to this week?

This week, we continue our mini-series on ‘Captivating Stories’, exploring Babel’s quest of “making a name for ourselves” (Gen 11:4). We’ll diagnose the parallels to the celebration of self-autonomy today, why that’s an unfulfilling story, and why the gospel speaks to a better hope we have in God naming us! 

“Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. (Isaiah 43:1)