Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Put the Poor & Working People First

In today's meditation from Upper Room Disciplines 2011, the author starts off by saying he had seen a political poster for a little known political party that said, "Put the Poor & Working People First". He made the observation that this was not a very savvy way to win in politics since the poor and working class had no one in privileged positions or with "clout" - money, prestige and access.

"Who in the world could truly put “poor and working people first” as a matter of principle? Then it occurred to me that Jesus is the guy who says “the greatest among you will be your servant.” That must have sounded positively ludicrous in a hierarchical society like Roman-ruled, first-century Palestine. And it still makes us pretty uncomfortable in much of our contemporary society."
Upper Room,  (2011-01-24). Disciplines 2011 (Kindle Locations 4026-4029). Unknown. Kindle Edition.

Today's scripture is from Matthew 23:1-12

Matthew 23:11-12

The Message (MSG)
11-12"Do you want to stand out? Then step down. Be a servant. If you puff yourself up, you'll get the wind knocked out of you. But if you're content to simply be yourself, your life will count for plenty.

I am very puzzled by the Republican veneer that they are the "better" Christians because they love God & country, but have little room in their view point for caring for the poor, widowed and orphaned. I wonder what Bible they read. Jesus was humble, concerned about the welfare of others, especially the vulnerable in society. And he repeatedly calls us to do likewise.

I do agree that our country needs to address the deficit in a planned, systematic manner. It is a dangerous albatross around our necks. But I believe that getting people working is a far more successful approach than making draconian cuts to the budget, especially in the human service areas. Our country is only as strong as its weakest members. Making sure that people have education, medical services, affordable housing, clean air to breathe, and safe food to eat needs a national approach to be effective. And these services will elevate us all.

Creator God: I pray that You will guide our leadership locally, on the state level and nationally to work together to heal our country, to provide for the needs of the most vulnerable, and to require all citizens and large corporations to pay their fair share.
In Jesus' Holy Name I pray, AMEN!

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