Sheep into the midst of wolves

14Oct
‘See, I am sending you out like sheep into the midst of wolves; so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. Beware of them, for they will hand you over to councils and flog you in their synagogues; and you will be dragged before governors and kings because of me, as a testimony to them and the Gentiles. When they hand you over, do not worry about how you are to speak or what you are to say; for what you are to say will be given to you at that time; for it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.  
-Matthew 10:16-23


Given the current divisions among our citizens, some will undoubtedly believe that I chose this passage and am trying to make a point, while others may be cheering my “choice” and hoping that I will “make a point”. I must admit to finding these times to be quite challenging as a preacher, and have been told numerous times in the past year that I shouldn’t be political! Thank you, Jesus. But you did, after all, warn us that following you was going to get us in a mess of trouble. “I am sending you out like sheep into the midst of wolves” is not ambiguous. Try talking about peace, mercy, and forgiveness to those who want a fight, who want revenge, and who have no intention of forgiving. Jesus says this may be even more challenging (read “frightening”) if those against you are the civic and religious leaders of the community. Jesus faced them all and suffered for taking that stance. The followers of Jesus should not expect less. So why hang in there? I find myself imagining that I could do otherwise, and I have a hard time facing that in myself. I long for the courage to do the right thing, to follow Christ’s teachings. I am tired of being told that believing in the power of peace, love, justice and mercy is somehow naive in this world. I now see, more than ever, that it is the only sane path to walk. And I pray that, when the time comes, the Spirit will direct the words I am to say and the actions I am to take. So, do not worry; but get ready.


Musical Reflection - What's so Funny 'Bout Peace Love and Understanding - Elvis Costello and the Attractions


O God, the Father of all, whose Son commanded us to love our enemies: Lead them and us from prejudice to truth: deliver them and us from hatred, cruelty, and revenge; and in your good time enable us all to stand reconciled before you, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

AuthorityPentecost

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