We don’t need to look very far to see that power corrupts. Several times revolutionary leaders have swept to power on a wave of hope and liberation, only to become corrupt dictators themselves. Democracies fair no better, with scandals of corruption a seemingly regular event for newspaper headline writers. When we find ourselves in positions of power it becomes all too easy to see others as ‘less valuable’.
In 1 Kings 21 we have a classic example. Ahab, the King, wants a vineyard belonging to Naboth. He first offers money, then the Queen uses her power to set up Naboth and have him killed. The King gets the vineyard, and if you read on in the story, God isn’t too pleased.
A more subtle example is found in Luke 7:36. We’re at the home of Simon The Pharisee, who has invited Jesus to visit. A woman in need of forgiveness and acceptance arrives, acknowledges Jesus’ holiness and makes a fuss of him. Simon looks down upon the woman, his position and power have clouded his vision of what justice and forgiveness is. Fortunately Jesus in on hand to give an example through a parable.
In the western church what has become corrupted for us? Many of us will be educated, middle-class , second (or greater) generation Christians - who do we view as second (or lower) class people? Are there people we envy due to their success and possessions? Are there types of individuals who we are uneasy to be around: people who we feel don’t deserve God’s grace?
Both of the above stories are readings from this week’s Lectionary. Every week The Seed has a special section of resources that relate to the current week’s Lectionary. Simply click the Browse button and then the link ‘This Week’s Lectionary’. The page will refresh and you’ll have a range of relevant resources. If you are UK based and lead a worship service, you can qualify for a free subscription that gives you 3 free resources each week.
Power can corrupt and change a person.
Grace can recreate and change a person.
Let’s thank God for one and guard against the other.
