ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
June 2, 2022
The Prophets seemed to suggest that nations would be judged on how they cared for the most vulnerable. The categories most often referenced by the prophets were: the poor, widows, orphans, sick and immigrants. I do not want to give the impression of being absolutely positive, but I feel pretty confident in saying these are general categories and do not represent the complete and final list for all those seeking to follow in the ways of God. What other categories might you think God would sort of be expecting us to include today? Remember, even Jesus was dealing with a society that often blamed the sick and the foreigners for all life’s problems, and so many of the most vulnerable in society were scapegoated and thrown under the proverbial bus. Jesus didn’t blame them, but loved them. He gave forgiveness where forgiveness was needed; provided healing where healing was needed; made a place at the table where welcome was needed. When you are one of the vulnerable or find yourself marginalized, no matter the circumstance, it is easy for religion to blame you for all kinds of things. Politicians have also done an exceptional job at this, but I find it hard for anyone who knows and loves the life of Jesus to think this honors God. Throughout history, nations have lost their souls as they abused and scapegoated the most vulnerable, often nations that claimed to be quite Christian. I read the Gospels, and I see a Jesus who invited people to humble themselves, to grow in their capacity for compassion and to enflesh the love Jesus enfleshed. A nation finds its soul when it cares for the poor, widows, orphans, the sick and immigrants, along with the children who wish to attend school without fear, those who identify as LGBTQ, caregivers who are overwhelmed with their work, or those who are walking alongside a family member with an addiction… just to name a few categories that come to my mind. How will we be judged? It’s a serious question.
May the faith I claim be manifest in the love and humble service I bring to this beautifully diverse world around me. Holy One, be my guide in this work. Amen.
