Topsy turvy

Matthew 5:1-12

          When I think of polar extremes, I think of American politics. Republicans and Democrats, Conservatives and Liberals - and never the twain shall meet. I'm sure we each have our own opinion about those extremes and those opinions are , well, often extreme!

          It was a with a bit of wonderment that when I saw he move Lincoln a few months ago, the Republicans were the more liberal party,trying to get legislation passed that abolished slavery.  Not that Republicans of today would be in favor of slavery, it's just that they are often viewed as the more stubborn, conservative party.

           Onto the topic at hand though. We all know Jesus was counter cultural. He argued against the status quo. He spoke to the outcasts, welcomed sinners in his midst and here in this passage he is really turning things upside down.

           Sometimes issues are all perception. I recall a song called Wonderful from the Broadway play Wicked, here are a few lines from that song:                

                                                 A man's called a traitor - or liberator

                                                 A rich man's a thief - or philanthropist

                                                 Is one a crusader - or ruthless invader?

Isn't it true? It seems Jesus is saying that the world will be topsy turvy. What we see now will be the opposite. The rich will be poor, the hungry shall be filled. 

            If only we could see the opposite now. If we could gain the knowledge and appreciation for the other side. Why do some Muslims act with such venom? What belief allows them to act so contrary to God? Why did the Christians act venomously in the Crusades? Perhaps more closer to home, when we feel slighted, is there another way of looking at the situation? Perhaps the motivation on someone else' part was good.  Perhaps God is not  answering your prayer the way you want it answered. Perhaps the answer is the opposite of which you asked but is what you need.

             Polar extremes can be very dangerous things. I often thought I was blessed to be able o see two sides of a situation. I also lamented though when people demanded I pick a side when I saw both sides. I guess I can see gray when many other people only see  black and white. I lieu of the ability to see gray, perhaps it would be good if we tried to learn or appreciate black when we see white, and white when we see back.

            Just some thoughts to ponder.

       

When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him. Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying:

‘Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

‘Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.

‘Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.

‘Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.

‘Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.

‘Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.

‘Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.

‘Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

‘Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.