Messiah

Now while the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them this question: ‘What do you think of the Messiah? Whose son is he?’ They said to him, ‘The son of David.’ He said to them, ‘How is it then that David by the Spirit calls him Lord, saying, “The Lord said to my Lord, ‘Sit at my right hand, until I put your enemies under your feet’ ”? If David thus calls him Lord, how can he be his son?’ No one was able to give him an answer, nor from that day did anyone dare to ask him any more questions. Matthew 22:41-46

We humans too often revel in arguing and fighting, tussling as small children and having political debates as adults. We pretend it's all in fun, in the name of sport, or in the name of vigorous democracy. In fact, too often, it is pride and jealousy rolling around like young cubs, biting and teasing until blood is drawn. We want our way, we want to dominate, and when we don't get our way, we often lash out and call it righteousness. Jesus was in conversation with the religious leaders of the day who barely tolerated in the best of times. They wanted him gone because he pointed out their hypocrisy, selfishness and love of money and power. Often, act all spiritual, humble and thoughtful but when pressed we are violent in our responses. The religious leaders of his day could not answer him in the end and so were silent. Maybe, we all might practice some silence and listening before we do battle, act righteous and pretend we are better than others.

Precious Creator, heart of our hearts 

you sent us a messiah, a savior

to walk with us and teach us love

yet we are stubborn and want our way.

You do not chose one over the other

yet we want our group to be your favorite

we think our hurts allow us to hurt others and

think ourselves righteous when we are mean.

Humble us enough to see our cruel ways

let us follow in the messiah's path of love

which is renewal, healing and deep grace

even in the face of pain, sorrow and grief. Amen.