Gospel: Luke 12: 39-48
The disciples of Jesus are continually preoccupied with the question of whether Jesus intends his teaching just for them or for the whole world. In short, are the disciples a special, privileged group who can lord it over others for having this special knowledge or not? The answer is one the disciples of Jesus then - and now - really do not want to hear.
The teaching of Jesus is fundamentally one of love and mercy extended to others, a message written on the heart of every human being. In that respect, the message is not special. What is special is the example of Jesus in showing us how to live this message written on our hearts. It is an example that should lead ones privy to it to live in their lives, but sadly this is not the case. More often than not followers of Jesus are more interesting in empire building and special status for themselves rather than actually living this message. As in the parable, others are abused by them and leave wounded and marred.
The disciples did not want to hear this message. They thought it was a reference to Israel and they would replace that former kingdom, but in reality Jesus was speaking to his disciples, then and now. Judgment will fall on us for all the people we have driven away and abused. But there are those who do live the message of love and mercy Jesus provides - those who are his followers and those who are not. Let us be these blessed souls who bring loving kindness to the world.
No comments:
Post a Comment