Luke 6:17-26
Then he looked up at his disciples and said: “Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. “Blessed are you who are hungry now, for you will be filled. “Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh. “Blessed are you when people hate you and when they exclude you, revile you, and defame you on account of the Son of Man. Rejoice on that day and leap for joy, for surely your reward is great in heaven, for that is how their ancestors treated the prophets. “But woe to you who are rich, for you have received your consolation. “Woe to you who are full now, for you will be hungry. “Woe to you who are laughing now, for you will mourn and weep. “Woe to you when all speak well of you, for that is how their ancestors treated the false prophets Luke 6:20-26 (NRSVUE)
When I first read this, I was confused. Poor, despised and dejected is good, but wealthy, popular and joyful is bad? These verses seem contradictory to my normal world view. But, if you consider the speaker (Jesus), the audience (his newly chosen disciples) and the times (a Jewish society run by the rabbis), it takes on new meaning.
The 12 disciples would have been familiar with the Torah and the laws that governed their lives. If you look at Deuteronomy 28, Moses told the Israelites that diligently following all the laws would result in earthly prosperity and happiness.
“If you will only obey the Lord your God, by diligently observing all his commandments that I am commanding you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations of the earth; 2 all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, if you obey the Lord your God…” (NRSVUE)
Moses goes on to list the many blessings the people will receive if they obey God’s Word and the curses they will incur for disobedience.
But, in today’s verses, Jesus is telling his disciples to forget that old code. He has a new vision for God’s work to go forward. There’s nothing wrong with wealth and happiness, but it shouldn’t be our focus.
As G. K. Chesterton puts it: “On first reading… you feel that it turns everything upside down, but the second time you read it you discover that it turns everything right side up. The first time you read it you feel that it is impossible; the second time, you feel that nothing else is possible.”
These verses tell me:
- true fulfillment comes from reliance on God
- focus on eternal rewards rather than earthly gain.
- find joy in my trials
- use my blessings to serve others and reflect God’s love.
That’s the “right-side-up” way of life.
Questions for Reflection:
- Do you choose the world’s way or Christ’s way?
- How can you help turn the world “right side up”?
Prayer:
Hey God, As Homer Simpson would say, “DOH!” I get it, but don’t always Do It. Keep reminding me to share your love with everyone around me. When I get wrapped up in myself, give me a nudge – or a good shove – back on track. I appreciate Your patience. Amen.
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