“Jesus entered the synagogue and taught. The people were astonished at his teaching, for he taught them as one having authority and not as the scribes.” Rulers, such as the scribes, could keep the people busy with memorizing doctrine or even entertained with superficial rhetoric. But rulers could not draw forth what Jesus drew forth, … Continue reading “Bread and Circuses”
Category: Military-Dominion
Critical Thinking
In the Old Testament, young Samuel believes he is being called by Eli. But Eli is certain “the Lord was calling the youth.” The Lord is calling Samuel for allegiance to a War Lord, King David, and to a warrior nation, Israel. In the Gospel, Andrew believes he is being called by Jesus. Jesus says … Continue reading “Critical Thinking”
Institutions Will Not Save Us
“Magi from the East arrived in Jerusalem” where they told “King Herod” of their quest. They seek a newborn holy one, “We saw his star rising.” The Magi are scientists and believers open to epiphanies, to experiencing the essential meaning of divinity present in the world. They cultivate care for the natural world and all … Continue reading “Institutions Will Not Save Us”
Belonging to Caesar
The ‘Chosen People’ of ancient Israel, captured by Babylon, dreamed of rebuilding their empire. When Persia’s King Cyrus defeated Babylon, he helped helped realize that dream. The people acclaim Cyrus as an agent of Yahweh, “Thus says the Lord to his anointed, Cyrus.” “It is I who arm you, though you know me not.” The … Continue reading “Belonging to Caesar”
Conspiracy Theories
In Jesus’ time, learned scholars, closed off from the people, devised rules for the people to obey. Often using specialized language, the scholars asserted knowledge hidden from mere commoners. The learned rulers kept the people divided, arguing over minutiae about their rules. Jesus, on the other hand, spoke openly in public, conversing with whomever he … Continue reading “Conspiracy Theories”
The Inchained
Jesus is disobedient to the rulers of his time; the “scribes and Pharisees,” so too “the Sanhedrin.” He will not be chained by them, made subservient to their divisive rules or system. He is free and encourages others to be free. Join in common unity; “be reconciled with your brother.” Rulers are more agitated Jesus … Continue reading “The Inchained”
The Myth of Chosen Ones
People who believe they are ‘Chosen Ones’ are undertaking a violent coup. They believe their mythical warrior deity, ‘the Lord,’ has unchosen Saul as King and chosen David. “(T)he LORD said to David, ‘You shall shepherd my people Israel and shall be commander of Israel.” Soldiers, some of whom once fought and killed for the … Continue reading “The Myth of Chosen Ones”
The Con of Wile E. Characters
Jesus tells a parable this Sunday about a conniving steward caught “squandering the master’s property.” Though caught, he does not stop his conniving. He merely shifts it to “his master’s debtors one by one.” He does so for personal benefit, figuring, “when I am removed from the stewardship, they may welcome me into their homes.” … Continue reading “The Con of Wile E. Characters”
Magic Kingdom
Abraham is known for a rather famous offer of hospitality to travelers, “please do not go on past … let me bring you a little food, that you may refresh yourselves.” Afterward, Abraham is rewarded, “One of them said, ‘I will surely return to you about this time next year, and Sarah will then have … Continue reading “Magic Kingdom”
Stop Supporting the Troops
Abram in the Old Testament is set to wage war. He “mustered three hundred and eighteen of his slaves, born in his house, and went in pursuit.” Upon Abram’s victory, Melchizedek, allied with Abram, “brought out bread and wine, and being a priest of God Most High, he blessed Abram.” “Then Abram gave him a … Continue reading “Stop Supporting the Troops”