After Jesus is murdered by rulers of the Roman Empire, his disciples do their best to “love one another.” Disciples start expanding Jesus’ Community of God to diverse members and to expanding their love to those diverse members. Peter is struggling though. He is initially inclined to be loving and show partiality to those who … Continue reading “Showing Partiality”
Tag: Insurrection
Bringing Home the Lost
When he was 12, Mary and Joseph lost Jesus. “They had journeyed for a day and looked for him among their relatives and acquaintances,” but could not find him. “They returned to Jerusalem to look for him. After three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, listening to … Continue reading “Bringing Home the Lost”
God’s Will for the Fourth of July
Prophets of the Old testament prophet believe they interpret God’s will. It is God’s will to inflict violence on sinners. They “have rebelled against me,” says the Lord. “(T)hey shall die for their sin.” (Ez 2) It is God’s will that a Chosen People in a Chosen Empire are ruled by a violent messianic warrior … Continue reading “God’s Will for the Fourth of July”
Leaving Militarism
Today’s reading from Exodus says Moses, Aaron, and other warlords “sacrifice young bulls as peace offerings to the Lord.” They did so believing the “Lord” would then not sacrifice them, “the Lord did not lay a hand on these chosen Israelites.” The reading from Hebrews tells us Jesus’ “own blood” is “sacrificed” to the “Lord.” … Continue reading “Leaving Militarism”