WE ARE born into a world filled with symbols, meanings, and stories. The mystery of who we are emerges from this chaos. Endless possibilities can unfold - if we are able to let go of our myths, our constructs and our own interpretations and perspectives.

So, we may need an iconoclast - a person who attacks cultural and religious symbols, beliefs, and institutions. We need to have our ideas about ourselves, others and God brought to nought. Because while we either reflect, or react against our cultural paradigm, we are still caught within the matrix.

It is easy to look at ancient and religious texts, for example, the Old Testament, and conclude with Dawkins that “God is the most unpleasant character in history.” However, could it be possible that ancient myths and stories reflect the evolution of human understanding. That the writers were either reflecting, or reacting to, the cultural paradigms and myths they were born into. Letting go of religious and cultural constructs, connecting and awakening us to love and beauty that leaves us with sense of awe. The Easter story reveals Jesus as the great iconoclast. He enters our myths of redemptive violence and subverts them. There is no need for revenge killings because the innocent victim lives and forgives. Pentecost, which follows, is the conclusion of the work of the iconoclast, who shows humanity the possibility of awakening to love and beauty, as the Spirit is poured out on all flesh.

Irm Hollenbach

Windermere Christian Community