Today’s New Testament reading from Timothy begins with the author, either Paul of Tarsus or one of his followers, asking “that supplications, prayers, petitions, and thanksgivings be offered for everyone, for kings and for all in authority, that we may lead a quiet and tranquil life.” The life witness Paul promotes for disciples differs from … Continue reading “Being Powerful Amidst Tyranny”
Tag: nationalism
Speaking Out
In the first reading this Sunday, Ezra is reading to the people from “the book of the law of God” and speaking out in support of their ruler, Nehemiah. He is instructing the people to support Nehemiah too. Nehemiah is a nationalist who is dividing the people from neighbors. He is rebuilding a wall around … Continue reading “Speaking Out”
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”
Kings
Jesus is no king. Kings however, would like us to believe he is. The king of the Roman Catholic Church, the Pope, instituted a feast day in 1925 proclaiming Jesus a king. Pope Pius XI did so in an attempt to encourage disciples to transcend earthly kings and the nationalism they were ratcheting up in … Continue reading “Kings”