Tell me again

"We know that our actions cannot bring in God's kingdom for which we long.  

But hope plunges us into the struggle for victories over evil that are possible now.  

Hope gives us courage and energy to contend against all opposition

 no matter how invincible it seems for the new world and new humanity 

are surely coming in Christ our Lord."*

It is so hard to stand up against the forces of this world - forces as simple as the town government who fails to collect the garbage in the poorer sections of town.  Perhaps if it is your problem, your garbage, your teen who is being stopped by the police on flimsy excuses, your elderly parent who is not receiving good care from the medical community, your child who is always the receiver of harsh treatment at school - it is easier.  It is easier if  you know and love someone who is the victim of injustice, but it still takes courage and strength.

We know that Jesus insisted on the worth of every person.  We read stories about lepers and tax collectors and women of the night and Roman soldiers who are accepted and acceptable to Jesus.

 We watch as 'those people we would never invite to dinner' feast with Jesus.  We are challenged to consider that our judgments are jaded and nasty and far from God's judgments and do not reflect God's love.  Jesus loves.....everyone....and most especially the folks we find really hard to love.

We know that, but it is very difficult to take the next steps.  It is hard to stand up and confront the powers of this world and demand change (nicely, but persistently).  It is hard to hear someone pounding on our door demanding justice and to respond in love.  

It is hard to make the break with this kingdom to begin to incarnate the kingdom of God.  Following Jesus is difficult work.  Thank God we are empowered by the very Spirit of the Resurrection to do God's work and participate in the breaking in of God's kingdom.  

The new life revealed on Easter morning is the source of all hope for all ages and all people. Tomorrow does not have to be like today.  In fact, the resurrection says, 'tomorrow is going to knock your socks off.'  When we stand for justice, we get a glimpse of Jesus' tomorrow.

*This is a declaration of faith from the Presbyterian Church - USA