Today's readings: Ps 98, 144; Jer 30:10-17; Col 1:15-23; Luke 6:12-26
Jeremiah is a complex book containing poems, history and prophecies from multiple authors. It does not tell a linear story, but describes the experience of a people whose faith in a protective God is strained to breaking when enemies defeat and enslave them. Jeremiah alternately claims Judah’s people have been wicked and lost God’s favor, and also that God loves and will save them. The end result, rather than painting a clear picture of their relationship with God, reflects their confusion and search for answers.
Today’s psalms also show us a God who both punishes and rescues the same people. For the Israelites, everything from harvests to the outcome of battle was assumed to be a result of God’s favor or displeasure. This view seems simplistic, but it complicates and even makes contradictory our relationship with God. Unless one is a prophet (and so few of us are!), such a belief structure makes it hard to determine whether we are in the middle of a punishment or a deliverance.
Yet many self-styled prophets are quick to blame personal and public disasters on God’s disfavor. Hurricane Katrina, tsunami’s in Haiti, an uncontrollable child: one doesn’t have to wait long or look hard for a preacher who blames specific “sinners.” And while the world is indeed broken in ways that need to be named and addressed, those who speak with eagerness and certitude about the people God is punishing never seem to consider their own sins might bring about such action. On the contrary, they often point to their own prosperity as a sign of favor.
Jesus’ words in Luke turn that notion upside down. He calls the blessed poor, hungry and mournful. The mirthful rich are the ones in trouble. So what are we to do? If the state of our pocketbooks and bellies doesn’t tell us whether we are living according to God’s plan, what does? Jesus calls us to be loving people no matter our external state. He assures us God always loves us, and is with us through both sorrows and joys. A godly life is constant in its humility and charity regardless of fortune. Living such a life renders the question of God’s favor pointless.
Comfort: God’s love for us is constant.
Challenge: Think of the times you’ve asked “Why me?”
Prayer: God of freedom, thank you for your constancy.
Evening reading: Ps 9, 118
Discussion question: At what moments in your life have you felt rewarded or punished by God? Has time changed your understanding of these moments? (Please comment)
Often what first seems to be a "punishment" or simply a "tragedy" later proves to have been an opportunity for growth in some way. If we look hard enough, there is usually something to be gained from even the most painful experiences. Time offers us the perspective we need to see the lessons.
ReplyDeleteMy life is a study in how difficult challenges can bring positive outcomes. The 0-6 (Captain's) list for my year group came out this week. The woman who did the same jobs I did (hers in Rota, mine in Misawa) and who actually replaced me at the Pentagon (when I had leave for health reasons) made the list. I did wonder what could have been. However, I have had many benefits that wouldn't have befallen me if I hadn't been locked in at home with all my health challenges these years.
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