A Note From Rob ...
Week of November 22, 2009
One of the important questions that the founders of the Constitution of the United States answered as they
began to chart a course for a “ new world order” was the relationship between the government and religion. Two
aspects of this are found in the freedom to practice one’s faith and the division between an organized religion and
the government. The latter forbade a Church to be supported by tax money.
I begin our focus for our worship this Sunday by drawing attention to the tension that exists between rule
and religion. In Jesus’ time it might have been reign and religion, since kings and caesars were the order of the day
at that time.
In our Gospel lesson this Sunday Jesus is standing before Pilate. He is accused of a crime against the
church but is now standing before Pilate, the government’s leader in the area- so much for a separation between
church and state. We know from other sources Herod Antipas was the recognized King of the Jews and he is wellknown
for eliminating his opponents as was his father before him.
So why place Jesus before Rome? Pilate can kill two birds with one execution, so to speak. He can appease
the religious community and keep peace with the puppet Herod Antipas.
But before washing his hands of the situation, he asks Jesus if he is a King. His focus is upon Jesus’
followers, which was Pilate’s real concern. What political fallout would he be forced to suffer because of the
decision of what to do with Jesus. I think Jesus answered from a position of on what authority he was sovereign
when he said, “My Kingdom is not of this world.” It is the difference between motivation and results. In a political
world votes are taken. From that perspective the right decision is the one with the most votes. However, Jesus
answer was one of core values.
Christ the King Sunday calls us to a time of decision. It is a time for each person to cast a vote for whom or
what will rule a life, shapes decisions and directs a path.
In a way we are like those assembled below Pilate’s balcony. They were asked to choose between Jesus and
Barabbas. They represent the Kingdom of God and kingdom of this world, so to speak.
So, who is in charge? A vote will be taken Sunday at 11:00 am.
RETURN
|