Living in the Spirit
November 4, 2017
Scripture Reading: Matthew 23:1-12
Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples, ‘The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat; therefore, do whatever they teach you and follow it; but do not do as they do, for they do not practice what they teach. They tie up heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on the shoulders of others; but they themselves are unwilling to lift a finger to move them. They do all their deeds to be seen by others; for they make their phylacteries broad and their fringes long. They love to have the place of honor at banquets and the best seats in the synagogues, and to be greeted with respect in the market-places, and to have people call them rabbi. –Matthew 23:1-7
Rarely does anyone speak the words “do what I say not what I do, ” but there are sure a lot of people practicing this philosophy. From politicians to church leaders, people speak righteously, perhaps more self-righteously, while conjuring deals in the dark that play to their power and personal interest. Like the first century scribes and Pharisees, they rant about causes that have limited if any impact on most people but do draw out strong emotional reactions and fears while missing the mark on major issues that affect millions of people with life or death consequences. How are we harmed by NFL players taking a knee at their games in protest of racism? How many people do you think will suffer from lack of healthcare when we implement proposed major cuts in Medicaid and Medicare? Such cuts do not just impact the recipients of these services. Many rural hospitals will close as a result of these cuts.
Jesus would have none of that idea in the first century or now. He held the power brokers of the day accountable for their hypocrisy. We seem to admire people who can manipulate us to their benefit. Why is that? What is so beguiling about exploiters often when we are the exploited? Are we envious of their guile?
Jesus said in Matthew 7:15, Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. We would do well to follow that advice.
Prayer: Lord, enable us as doers of your justice for all your children. Amen.