The Old Testament reading describes the establishment of holy rule, “All the elders of Israel” stood “before the Lord” to “anoint David King.” The king’s rule consists of taking command of the army and its soldiers, torturing enemies, and killing people. It is what king Pilate does in the Gospel, specifically targeting Jesus. Thus, as … Continue reading “Freedom From Kings”
Tag: Donald Trump
Who Started Political Violence?
The Old Testament’s prophet Habakkuk is wanting the Lord to do his violent duty, “How long, O LORD, must I… cry out to you, “Violence!” and you do not intervene?” The Lord finally avenges the Israelites and does his violent duty against enemy sinners, “For the violence done to (Israel) shall overwhelm you,” sinners. Habakkuk … Continue reading “Who Started Political Violence?”
Trump and Kirk: Obedient to Death
On this Feast that errantly celebrates the Exaltation of the Cross, Paul of Tarsus teaches that though “Jesus was in the form of God, he did not regard equality with God something to be grasped. Rather, he emptied himself, taking the form of a slave… becoming obedient to death, even death on a cross. Because … Continue reading “Trump and Kirk: Obedient to Death”
MAGA is Making Eugenics Great Again
“Jesus went to dine at the home of one of the great Pharisees, and the people there were observing him carefully. He told a parable to” them about “how they were choosing the places of greatness at the table.” He concluded his parable describing their dehumanizing supremacy by sharing wisdom about communion, “He said to … Continue reading “MAGA is Making Eugenics Great Again”
Ghislaine MAGA
The Old Testament reading says the people should be “an offering to the LORD.” It means the people should live their lives in sacrifice to the Lord. If they do so, the Lord will save them from their “enemies.” In the Gospel “Jesus passed through towns and villages, teaching as he went.” “Someone asked him, … Continue reading “Ghislaine MAGA”
Perpetrators as Victims
“Martha welcomed Jesus. She had a sister named Mary who sat beside the Lord at his feet listening to him speak. Martha, burdened with much serving, came to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me by myself to do the serving? Tell her to help me.” The Lord … Continue reading “Perpetrators as Victims”
The ICE Agents Who Fell Victim to Robbers
“On a journey to Jericho, a man fell victim to robbers. A priest happened to be going down that road, but when he saw him, he passed by on the opposite side. Likewise a Levite came to the place, and when he saw him, he passed by on the opposite side. But a Samaritan who … Continue reading “The ICE Agents Who Fell Victim to Robbers”
Silent Slaves or People of Conscience
In the Old Testament reading, Abraham has slaves whom he takes to war as soldiers to kill enemies. Upon victory, an allied king, Melchizedek, who also uses slaves as soldiers, glorifies Abraham as God/Godly. Abraham gave the war’s plunder to his slaves/soldiers. “Abraham gave Melchizedek a tenth of everything.” Melchizedek specifically tells Abraham, “Give me … Continue reading “Silent Slaves or People of Conscience”
Fathers and Sons
Jesus said to his disciples: “I have much more to tell you, but you cannot bear it now. But when he comes, the Spirit of truth, he will guide you to all truth. What are the hopes and dreams of every father for his son? Perhaps it is that he too should know the joy … Continue reading “Fathers and Sons”
How Splinters and Beams Burn
Jesus asks his listeners, “Why do you notice the splinter in your brother’s eye, but do not perceive the wooden beam in your own?” “How can you say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me remove that splinter in your eye,’ when you do not even notice the wooden beam in your own eye? You hypocrite!” … Continue reading “How Splinters and Beams Burn”