Date: Thursday, February 27
Scripture: James 2:5
Listen, my dear brothers and sisters: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him?
by Faith Neece, Sycamore House Service Corps Member
As I sit down to write this reflection, it’s the end of awards season. I have to admit I love the glitz and glam. And I love to see the hard work of artists recognized. But while the awards are fun to watch, they also remind me of whom our culture chooses. We choose the rich and famous. We choose the strong and mighty. We choose the glamorous and accomplished. But that’s not whom God chooses.
James writes “Listen, my beloved brothers, has not God chosen those who are poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom, which he has promised to those who love him?” God chooses the poor, the forgotten, the outcasts for God’s kingdom.
I’m struck by the fact that if the Beatitudes were written based on our cultural values, they would be the exact opposite of what Jesus says. Our Beatitudes might say, “Blessed are the successful. Blessed are those who do what it takes to get to the top. Blessed are those who look out for themselves.”
But Jesus blesses the poor in spirit, the meek, the peacemakers. Jesus chooses the vulnerable and broken parts of us. Today, I encourage you to think about whom you choose. If I’m honest with myself, I’m much more inclined to choose the powerful. I need the Spirit to remind me what and who really matters.
Prayer: When we are searching for your Kingdom, may we turn to face those whom our society considers the last and least. May we see your face in the stranger asking for help and may we be brave enough to offer it. Amen.
Criminal Justice Fact: It is estimated that anywhere from 80,000 to 100,000 people are in solitary confinement in prisons throughout the United States at any given time.
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