Here is a summary word about Israel's encounter with Pharaoh. Good for these days of Passover. Israel knows that Egypt is endlessly resolved, vigilant, and canny for its way of life. In the narrative of counterreality, however, it becomes clear - over and over in reenactment - that the Egyptian project is doomed. In the end, Pharaoh is desperate and must say to Moses, "Bless me!" (Exodus 12:32). In the end the repressive achievements of Pharaoh are empty. This little community that begins in pain and ends in dancing, that stops its life for sabbath, that cancels debts for the sake of neighborliness, in the end this community has in its midst the force for life, and is the wave of the future. It is so because in the end, Yahweh denies Pharaoh any authority, even over Egypt (compare Exodus 19:5: "The whole earth is mine."). The story bring forth a truth that the world does not always let itself see - this God of ours is Lord of all. Yes, the line of empires runs one after the other and seem to never end, but it is this strange community that is contrary to the power of the day that lives on through all the powers. Israel, like the Church, is a living witness to another way to be human in a form that is truly blessed. The blessedness of the community is always for the good of all - even the empire. That is why we can dance...that is why can sing. In fact, I would go so far as to say our lives must be filled with dancing and singing and all the signs of a great banquet taking place even under the oppressive rule of empire. The word and the life we bring to the day will be a challenging one that will not give up the celebration of God's Reign for the reign of any other power. God Rules - that is enough to transform the day and be a part of the transformative power that will never be silent. Connection: Even in Holy Week, it is time to dance and sing. That is what Jesus did throughout the last days of his adventure in Jerusalem. Lord of the Dance, ignite our hearts that we will be bold followers of your way even as we must walk the paths through the powers of life that attempt to bend us and break us. Grant us you peace that we might find rest and courage. Amen. |
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