From the earliest days of recorded history, conflict has been an
integral part of human life. Although conflict and crisis are
painful, they are visible and vital signs of the perpetual work of
the church and society. Viewed in this light, they become sources
of growth and gifts to be pressed into service.
The trouble with Jesus was—and is—that he stands in the midst of
conflict, and allows the conflict actually to live in him even
though it tears him apart, in order that new life might be born.
The trouble with Jesus was—and is—that he invites us to follow
where he has led.
Newly revised and expanded, this book is not a how-to manual for
problem-solving, but a hopeful and creative reflection on the
positive aspects of conflict in our relationships and institutions,
as demonstrated throughout scripture in the life and ministry of
Jesus, the early church, the church today, and within ourselves.
For those willing to embrace conflict and the work that it
requires, the result is a celebration of the community that God has
given us.
Conflict is frightening. It threatens our sense of control and
upsets our notions of order. It touches our vulnerability and
reveals uncomfortable realities. Therefore, we tend to deny
conflict, or we try to manage it, tame it. In fantasies of ultimate
control, we banish conflict altogether. . . .
But the ways of God in the real and quite tangible world in which I
live are obviously not the same as my ways. In this world, I am
rarely in agreement with others and God obviously tolerates much
more untidiness than I find comfortable. This conflict, which is
with me every hour and becomes quite apparent hundreds of times a
day, arouses fear within me. I want to be in control, and yet I
cannot be in control.
from Conflict and a Christian Life
This edition features a study guide designed by educator Amanda
Millay Hughes, making it a valuable resource for group study by
vestries, parish staffs, adult education groups, and anyone wishing
to gain greater facility in negotiati
Portaro leaves no stone unturned as he follows every footprint that Christ left on his way to ameliorate the greatest conflict of all. . . .“. . . the mother of all conflicts is divinely transformed into a lush garden that is sure to produce a bumper crop of beautiful fruit. Portaro's book is the best map to the orchard I've seen in a long time
SAM PORTARO is the Episcopal Chaplain to the University of Chicago. He is the author of several books, including Brightest and Best, Daysprings, and Crossing the Jordan.