Theme: Claiming a Vision of True Security
“Sometrust in chariots, and some in horses, but our trust is in the name of our God.” In the language of today, Psalm 20:7 might read: Some trust in violence and the technologies of war, and some in military power, but our trust is in the unfailing love and faithfulness of our saving God.
As people of faith and hope, we believe our nation is entering – and must enter -- an era of renewal and re-creation. The conviction is now widespread that it is time to envision and act on a new pathway to true human security – one which seeks not only the absence of tension, but the presence of justice (Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.) The 2008 Ecumenical Advocacy Days assembly will explore new visions of security in our homes, neighborhoods, nation and world.
Vision Statement
As people of faith and conscience, we envision a world where security is not measured by military power, closed borders or corporate profits, but by the capacity to achieve the common global good and share the resources which sustain communities. In such a world all children are treasured as sacred gifts and our elderly are regarded for their experience and wisdom. Each woman, man and child is safe from violence and has the resources for a life of dignity and sufficiency. Such a world looks to secure a safe and productive future for generations yet to come.
In the Book of Genesis God provides the earth’s bounty for the sustenance and well being of all people -- and indeed all creatures -- not just for a fortunate few (Gen. 1:29, 30). All human being – not just a powerful elite – are called as stewards of these resources for the sake of the common good (Gen. 1: 28).
Accordingly, in a truly secure world, the earth and all its people will receive the respect they are due as God’s creation and bearers of the divine image. Food, water and other essential resources, which are plentiful in some areas and desperately scarce in others, will be fairly distributed and available to all so that no one goes to bed hungry, no one is required to walk miles to find potable water, and no one is forced to flee their country to find work and safety.
As people of faith and action, we have the capacity to create public policies which move nations in the direction of true human security and the responsible care and keeping of the earth. Doing this is the best hope and the most practical strategy for achieving national and global security. The United States as a nation will only be secure if all people here and throughout the world are truly secure. This is a lesson from our nation’s historical experience as well as from our Scriptures.
Jesus calls out to the human family to embrace “the things that make for peace” (Luke 19:42). Ecumenical Advocacy Days 2008 is an opportunity to join him in this call.