SD-3: Today I read through the second sura "The Cow." It is the longest sura in the Qur'an. It really goes all over the place.
Over and over again, I'm hearing "this is the way we live." It is always set within the context of 'being mindful of God.' I like that. It is stated at the beginning of this sura. But then, I really heard words of advice to an ancient civilization - in many ways like those in the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures. That is not saying they are wrong or not needed. In fact, many of the instructions are wonderful. This example is in regard to charitable giving: Satan threatens you with the prospect of poverty and commands you to do foul deeds; God promises you His forgiveness and His abundance: God is limitless and all knowing. We need to try that line in a stewardship program. Better yet, the next time "Christian" people in our country go about complaining about the money we don't have and how we must take control of our money and not 'give it away' to the poor - we must say stop! Financial fears make us less than ones who are 'mindful of God.'
There are teachings on divorce. Though they always point to that same 'mindfulness,' there is still the contextual reality of an ancient tribal people where women really are not viewed as men. For example: it takes two women to be the equivalent witness as one man - this is needed in case one of the women forgets what she heard.
Finally, I heard Jesus throughout this sura. Not to much in how the directives are given - but in how they point to mercy and justice and the well-being of folks and a purity of heart that is always essential. Listen to this one: If you give charity openly, it is good, but if you keep it secret and give to the needy in private, that is better for you, and it will atone for some of your bad deeds. Now this sounds like Jesus - to a point. We do not give to atone for our sins. We would say we cannot atone for our sins. That has been done by our God who calls us to live within a reality in which we are righteous before God - beloved by God. The action by God shapes our character.
Connection: Though there are many contextual issues in these words, they still hold up for us a vision that is not always followed. How would 'being mindful of God' impact our day!?
Blessed are you, God of Mercy, for you continue to hold us and keep us as your beloved and from there, this day begins anew. Amen.
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