I was wondering if Br. David could expand on his explanation of sin: “'Turn away from sin, and believe the Gospel.' Sin stands for everything that cuts us off from our authentic self, from one another, and from the divine ground of our being; Gospel stands for the Good News that the Kingdom of God is at hand. The world order in accord with God’s design is only waiting for us to make it a reality here and now." I like the way his explanation makes me feel not so guilty. — Valorie, Colorado

Dear Valorie,

One could add, that the English word "sin" comes from the same root as "sundering", cutting asunder. Sin is what cuts us off from our quintessential Self, from all others, and from the divine ground of our being. Actions that do not cut us off in this way are not sinful, regardless what any rule or laws may have to say.

When the topic of sin comes up, it is helpful to think less of the negative aspects but rather of ways in which we can heal wounds that sin creates. We should especially think of systemic evil (sin) – and how we can heal it – in this context. The very word "salvation" primarily means healing, like its derivative, "salve". Like all wounds, the wounds of sin heal from the inside out. G-d loves the “sinner” more, just like a mother’s love goes out more immediately to the one child who has fallen and gotten hurt.

-- Your Brother David