responsibility vs. blame-evasion; justification by grace vs. self-justification

A good essay by Joel Belz in World on 1.) something modern and 2.) something as old as the hills...

1.) Post-modernism has much to offer (esp. relative to modernism), but it's penchant for relativism causes a lot of trouble.

2.) Blame-evasion and rationalization goes back to Genesis 3.

Our response should be:

a.) look in the mirror; accept responsibility

b.) accept God's mercy and grace

c.) extend that mercy and grace to others

d.) focus on discipleship with Jesus and positively influencing those around you-- rather than falling for the illusions and trappings of an idolatrous political world