'the other"

Once upon a time there was family with one grandma, two aunts, one uncle and two grandsons.  One aunt was called "Aunt Tate" (you know how it is when they are learning to talk) and the other was called "Not Tate" (poor Megan will never live that one down).

In every walk of life, no matter where you are or who you are there is someone who is "Not Tate".  She/he is 'the other.'  The one who is different, who is 'not you', who is a bit strange.  They talk different, dress different, eat odd foods, have odd customs.  Sometimes 'the other' is more than strange, they are unappealing, maybe a little scary.  They might smell bad or be sick or ...... well, you get the idea.  "The other" is someone who isn't like you.

"The other" is also the focus of much of Jesus' attention, miraculous healing and invitations to dinner.  "The other" ....the widow, the orphan, the stranger in your midst....has been worthy not only of your tolerance, but your hospitality and concern.  When the geneologies of the Bible are examined we see that two foreign women are ancestors of Jesus - two women who were considered 'other.'

Many of the stories within the gospels address Jesus' connection with those counted 'other' by the society of that time:  women and children, lepers, the lame, the poor, tax collectors and Gentiles, even thieves on the cross.  We might call these folks 'other' but Jesus called them beloved.

'The other' is one of the great stumbling blocks of disicpleship.  In Jesus' eyes, there are those he loved and for whom he died.....and....well, no one else.  There is no 'other.'  All are members of the family of God.  All are in need of healing; all are hurting; all are hungry and Jesus came for each one of them.  We are to do no other.

Our hospitality is not to be measured out only to those who are familiar.  Likewise our generosity, our forgiveness, our prayers and our search for justice and peace.  These are the tasks of discipleship and within them there is no 'other.'

Let's look at a couple of stories where Jesus boldly crosses the boundaries of his culture and society to express a kind of love that has room for everyone.  Keep reading this week.