Readings for today: Genesis 8-11, Matthew 5
Yesterday was a truly horrifying day. We watched an insurrection take place in the heart of our nation. Domestic terrorists forced their way onto the hallowed grounds of the US Capitol building. Lives were lost. People were hurt. Elected officials forced to find safe shelter. Images of law enforcement defending the House and Senate floors. It was one of the ugliest moments in our history. Thankfully, law enforcement restored order. US Representatives and Senators went back to work and the election results were certified.
For me, the most heartbreaking thing about the whole episode was to see so many “Jesus saves” or “Jesus 2020” signs amidst the mob. So many Christians have been led astray by the heresy of Christian nationalism. They have wrapped the cross in an American flag. They believe God identifies Himself with one particular political party over another. They believe violence is justified to defend their way of life. They too easily believe the lies their leaders tell them. Too easily fall for the conspiracy theories being spun. And as our national rhetoric has become more and more heated in recent years, they act out. They lash out. And we all bore witness to the tragic results.
Thankfully, most Christians are able to differentiate between patriotism and faith. Most Christians are able to differentiate between love of country and love of Jesus. Most Christians have found a way to honor our nation and honor our God. But this majority has remained silent for far too long. We keep waiting for the radical elements to just go away. We assume things will eventually calm down once the election cycle is over. Once the pandemic ends. Once things get back to normal. But, friends, we cannot wait any longer. God is calling Christians to take a stand. God is calling His Church to take a stand. God is calling His people to show the world a different way. The way of Jesus.
“And Jesus opened his mouth and taught them, saying:
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.
Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you…
You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden…In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven…
You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder; and whoever murders will be liable to judgment.’ But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother will be liable to the council; and whoever says, ‘You fool!’ will be liable to the hell of fire…
You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also…
You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.” (Matthew 5:2-12, 14, 16, 21-22, 38-39, 43-45)
Friends, the work of healing and rebuilding and restoring our nation begins with each one of us. It begins today with the prayers we pray. The words we say. The memes we share. The news we consume. It begins with the votes we cast. The candidates we support. The money we give. It begins with the lives we lead. The love we share. The hospitality we show. It begins with a commitment to love others the way Christ loves us. A commitment to serve others the way Christ serves us. A commitment to forgive and reconcile with others the way Christ forgives and reconciles Himself to us. There is no other way. Our nation has no other hope. The world is watching. The world is waiting. “All of creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons and daughters of God.” (Romans 8:19)
Readings for tomorrow: Genesis 12-14, Matthew 6