Noted

As I've been reading The Jesus I Never Knew I come across a profound statement on almost every page. Either words that Jesus spoke directly or insight from Yancey that speaks into my life. Having said that, here is just one paragraph from the book.... for now.

"A political movenment by nature draws lines, makes distinctions, pronounces judgment; in contrast, Jesus' love cuts across lines, transcends distinctions, and dispenses grace. Regardless of the merits of a given issue - whether a pro-life lobby out of the Right or a peace-and-justice lobby out of the Left - political movements risk pulling onto themselves the mantle of power that smothers love. From Jesus I learn that, whatever activism I get involved in, it must not drive out love and humility or otherwise I betray the kingdom of heaven".

- Yancey



I had no idea what the political climate was like in 1st century Palestine when Jesus set into motion the very teachings and encounters with religious authority's that ultimately led to his execution. The Jewish people had been waiting for the messiah for so long and when his teaching didn't align with their political agendas for a revolt against an occupying pagan Roman empire, they simply could not accept him as the true messiah. They wanted a king they could crown as ruler of Israel who would restore the power and glory to it. Jesus always slipped away anytime they attempted to give him this title.

I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those that persecute you. An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth right? So our forefathers said. Love your kinsmen, hate your enemies, right? But I say it's easy to love your own brother, to love those who love you. Even tax collectors do that! You want me to congratulate you for loving your own kinsmen? No, love your enemy. Love the man who would kick you and spit at you. Love the soldier who would drive his sword in your belly. Love the brigand who robs and tortures you. Listen to me! Love your enemy! If a Roman soldier hits you on the left cheek, offer him the right one. If a man in authority orders you to walk one mile, walk two miles. If a man sues you for your coat, give him the the shirt off your back. Listen! I tell you, it is hard to follow me. What I'm saying to you hasn't been said since the world began!

"You can Imagine the villagers' response to such unwelcome advice. The Sermon on the Mount did not puzzle them; it infuriated them".

I know I get all kinds of worked up when I hear people mocking climate issues. Honestly, it makes me want to shove them on the ground. I think the majority of Americans are like that when it comes to the political topic of their choice but I love how Yancey says, "regardless of the merits of a given issue."



How can I get better at this? I think it will be difficult but that is what Jesus said it would be like to follow him.

I better get to work.

-Trey