Disasters indicate the complex peril of earthly existence. Suffering and risk are global realities. Yet, the biblical depiction of persons and communities as “earthen vessels” also suggests that vulnerable creatures can be strengthened to receive and bear the grace and glory of God. Culp demonstrates how vulnerability to devastation and to transformation is the very basis for life before God. The glory of God may be witnessed in resistance to inhumanity and idolatry, and expressed in delight and gratitude for the good gifts of life.
Kristine A. Culp is Associate Professor of Theology and Dean of the Disciples Divinity Hosue at the University of Chicago Divinity School. She works in constructive theology, especially in relation to feminist theologies and theology in North America. She has written on protest and resistance as theological themes, the use of fiction in theological thinking, a theology of Christian community, feminist and womanist theologies, and “experience” in contemporary theology.