Change is a part of our DNA. Our bodies’ cells recreate themselves over and over again throughout our life. Trees have a cycle of life where they experience change that sustains them. Change is good. It is an expression of growth and sustenance.
When we were kids, we were told that prayer is just simply talking to God. Many were taught to talk to God like they were talking to a friend. And of course, this isn’t all bad. But this understanding has harmed prayer practices and kept people from accessing meaningful connection with themselves and with others.
While many churches have been afraid of the SBNR as if they are witches (what’s wrong with witches, after all), progressive people of faith could learn a lot about religion and relationships from the SBNR. Their critiques of institutionalized religion shine a light on places that people who are loyal to the institution may not see. The spiritual but not religious have a lot to teach all of us about faith and religion.