Thread by @kkdumez

I had the privilege of talking about Jesus and John Wayne with @aaronieq @cb_johns @aprilldiaz and Jackie Johns. I do a lot of podcasts and I love them all, but this one felt different. It went kind of deep. Take a listen. Also, as a historian, context is always relevant... 1/8

https://twitter.com/aaronieq/status/1364557319670018050

So I'll note that when we recorded this episode, I was unaware that @sniequist was about to break her silence and apologize publicly for her silence in light of revelations of her dad's (Bill Hybels) abusive behavior. Here's more on that: religionnews.com/2021/02/22/aut… 2/8

This is a lot to process, so a couple thoughts. First, as a historian I am unaccustomed to writing histories in which principal actors are still among us. Even stranger is having my own book become part of the story I've traced, in its own way. I'll say more on that another time

But I'll add that I've had many conversations with readers of J&JW who acknowledge their complicity in the story I tell. Some minor figures, others of greater prominence. I am often asked "What next?" I'm better at examining the past than offering advice in the present, but... 4/

...here's what I say. Make amends if possible with those you've harmed. (What is critical here is that the experiences and voices of victims/survivors are always centered.) 5/8

Think of those you've actively excluded, and consider what it looks like to make amends in those cases. Then, think of those you've never even considered including--because of racial, theological, political, or other boundaries. 6/8

Seek them out, and listen. Learn from them. And maybe then work to lead in a different direction. Or, maybe discover that it's not your job to lead. Maybe instead find where the faith is flourishing, and follow. 7/8

And let me add that as unsettling as it is for me at times, it is an immense privilege, as a historian, to encounter such meaningful, personal, and often painful engagement with my book. It is a responsibility that I don't take lightly. 8/8