Liberation II: No One In Need Among You
by the Rev. AJ Ochart
Deuteronomy 15:1-18; Psalm 82; Acts 4: 32-37; Luke 19:1-10
This week we will continue to consider the theme of liberation found throughout our scriptures and the vision that is cast for a just society. The Levitical and Deuteronomistic Laws provide a vision of equality, where those who have provide for those in need, and a 7 and 50 year reset that wipes out all debt. We hear of Jesus’ conversation with Zacchaeus, and his efforts to be righteous, make things right, with anyone who he may have defrauded. We hear later of the early church who actually lives out this radically communal lifestyle, at least for a while.
We will continue to consider different translations and reflections of the Lord’s Prayer, this week we use one created by Enfleshed.com.
Mother of us all, who dwells within and beyond, Sacred is your name.
May your holy vision for collective flourishing come to fruition among us.
May your dreams of justice, love, compassion, and connection be enfleshed on earth.
Provide us today with what we need to be nourished in body, soul, and heart.
Forgive us for the harm we cause as we seek to forgive those who have harmed us.
Lead us away from everything that destroys and liberate us from the hands of evil.
For you are the ultimate source of hope. Your power-with exceeds all power-over.
Your presence incites eternal wonder. All praise to you, our comfort and strength. Amen.
Questions to Consider
– What does Justice mean to you?
– What obligation do those with material means have to those without them?
– If there is economic inequality, how should we address it?
