Deuteronomy 5:33
“Walk in obedience to all that the Lord your God has commanded you, so that you may live and prosper and prolong your days in the land that you will possess.” Deuteronomy 5:33 (NIV)
The contract here seems so simple: obey the law and you’ll thrive. But what does “obedience to all that the Lord your God has commanded” mean for us? Jesus goes beyond the Ten Commandments and says that we should love each other unconditionally, refuse to return violence for violence, and take up our crosses and follow him. Our obedience is to extend well beyond ten commandments, and it should flow from the free gift of grace rather than be a price paid for prosperity.
But what is the scope of our obligation? I sometimes hear people say that the church shouldn’t be involved in politics and, in one sense, I agree. I don’t need church leaders to tell me who to elect to the School Board or how much property taxes should be raised or lowered. But sometimes the demand to keep church separate from politics feels like a cover for avoiding human obligations that concern us all.
After all, Jesus was a highly political figure in his time. His healing of the Roman centurion’s servant would have been perceived as a political act as was his refusal to be the kind of messiah who would lead a revolt against the Romans. And, of course, his followers throughout history have acted for justice in the political sphere. Martin Luther’s reformation was not just rebellion against the Catholic Church but also the Holy Roman Empire. Martin Luther King, Jr., his namesake, preached against racial segregation and repeatedly broke the law to attain a higher justice.
When we act in love and compassion, welcoming all people equally and speaking out against injustice, we may sometimes seem to act politically, but God’s love transcends politics and nations and every human institution.
Questions for Reflection:
- In these politically divisive times, what are some ways we can find unity in the faith?
- Do you see much crossover in your political life and your faith life? Where are those places?
Prayer:
Lord, help us to see each other as your children, bound together in our brokenness and our potential. Show us what you would have us do to live out your love and compassion for all. Amen.
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