Today on The Open Door (April 20) we discuss power! Our welcome and returning guest is Ed Rushman, from Anaheim, California. Ed directs the enterprise IT efforts of leading companies, most recently securing them against ransomware attacks. He is a long time religious educator who prepares young people for the Sacrament of Confirmation. And Confirmation is the sacrament of courage! So it’s no surprise that Rushman is also an indefatigable and independent political reformer. He’s running for Congress!

1.There are many types of power, are there not? Examples help! Help us sort out the power of:

a. coercion
b. reward
c. authority
d. knowledge
e. experience
f. respect
g. association

2. We often frame things in terms of power. How does this dynamic bear on the following?

a. self-image
b. interactions with others
c. authority figures

3. Sometimes we fear acquiring power. How does power connect with the following?

a. responsibility
b. corruption
c. arrogance

4. How should we deal with the loss of power?

5. What are some key themes in the wise use of power? Explain how it can be:

a. organic
b. used to serve
c. exercised gracefully

6. In what context does Christianity understand power?