Epiphany
February 12, 2017
Scripture Reading: Matthew 5:21-37
‘Again, you have heard that it was said to those of ancient times, “You shall not swear falsely, but carry out the vows you have made to the Lord.” But I say to you, Do not swear at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God, or by the earth, for it is his footstool, or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or black. Let your word be “Yes, Yes” or “No, No”; anything more than this comes from the evil one.
–Matthew 5:33-37
I am cynical about most things I read, hear, or watch these days and I do not like it. Why must I cross check even things that seem reasonable? I depend on source-trust, some totally, others with a recognition of their known biases. I appreciate editorials but only when labeled as such. I am even acquainted with propaganda, but the prevalence of fake news or perhaps the sheer availability of it is disturbing.
Source-trust built on experience demands we follower of Christ be very attentive to how we represent our faith. Not only what we say or write must pass the test of eventuality, but we also must live as the Christ we teach lived. At times, I do not recognize Christ in what I perceive to be the hate and in-hospitality of people who claim to be Christian. Is that what they think and feel about me in return? Are my actions and words construed as un-Christlike because they differ so from another’s points of view? How do we find reconciliation in such circumstances?
Finding wholeness in Christ is the only way we can find oneness as his disciples and justice for all God’s children. Finding wholeness requires us to seek a deeper and more meaningful relationship with Christ, opening our beings to the fullness of his love. The beginning of faith is the acceptance of God’s unconditional redeeming love. It paves the way to oneness and justice.
Prayer: God of love, forgive me when I allow outside sources to shattered my relationship with you. Reconcile me to you enabling my reconciliation with all your children in the oneness of your love. Amen.