Reading cities through the letters again. It’s a good way to pray for cities as well!

Reading Paul’s letter to the Corinthians as a letter written to this city today! Helpful way of reading, and very applicable. San Fran and Corinth are very similar on many levels (both strengths and shadows!). The multiculturalism the openness to spirituality, but also the sensual carnality of Aphrodite (goddess of the seafarers or sailors) worship etc. Also, i like applying the letters to today’s cities, as we often have most of the same issues or problems, and basic needs.

To them, Paul preached the foolishness of Christ crucified, and that Jesus was both the power and wisdom of God! He was speaking to Jews, Greeks, those seeking signs and wisdom, and he chose to preach The Cross-the foolishness of God.
He asked them to work on purity, unity and told them that God would use the weak and lowly in that “high” city. Interesting analogous message for this city.

And it has the same history of carnality and quick money speculation, but also has the whole spiritual gift package. So, Paul was teaching them how to move in the spiritual gifts in order. So similar to here really. Cool looking at 1 Corinthians as a lens to look at the particular city through anyway. Each city has her gifts and shadows, and you can usually see them most clearly in the church of that city.

Serving the poor, going low and using spiritual power well, as well as working on unity and purity all seem still essential here for the city to become healthier.

The way of the Cross, in short.

Turns out, the letters of Paul are still helpful in looking at cities! At least for me. Lots hasn’t changed about the nature and needs of cities.