13 December 2006

We continue in 1 Peter.

For the Lord's sake accept the authority of every human institution, whether of the emperor as supreme, or the governors, as sent by him to punish who do wrong and to praise those who do right. For it is God's will that by doing right you should silence the ignorance of the foolish. As servants of God live as free people, yet do not use your freedom as a pretext for evil. Honor everyone. Love the family of believers. Fear God. Honor the emperor.

We need to remember that this is being written to people who are to consider themselves aliens and exiles. So the existing system is not to be disturbed. And yet, the existing system will be disturbed by actions within the "family of believers" that is quite contrary to the ways of the authorities of the land. Now is this being said because this community in this age was being portrayed as being a problem? Remember that as we look at our own country today, we will see people who have been coming from Mexico and farther south for years. But now, to some people they are causing "problems" within the institutions of the U.S. When that happens, crack downs begin in order to cease their actions. In this text, it is not hard to appreciate the remarks by the writer if it is intended to nurture in the community of faith a way of upholding their alien life without pressing it upon others. Then again, if the system of authorities is unjust and we are to be a people whose alien nature is defined by a call to justice, do we simply go along with what is taking place. Or...do we become an alien community that embraces those who are unjustly treated by the governing powers. In that way, I can see the image of the Christ coming to life.

Connection: Sometimes we can do nothing about the powers of the day. And yet, we can always be a power that takes on our own agenda for life and begin to create something new.

Give us eyes to see the way of your Blessed Reign in this day. Even when we must act contrary to the world, help us to build up others rather than tear down. Amen.