The Rebuke

The Rebuke
Pentecost 3; Luke 9:51-62
See how Jesus is set on this journey
to the city that slaughters the prophets.
He’ll be threatened by temple and empire,
but he’s willing to suffer and die there,
at the hands of the fearful and powerful,
for the sake of God’s love and forgiveness.

When they ask in a village for shelter,
the Samaritans will not receive them:
they reject all to do with that city.
Then his followers want to bring fire
from the heavens to punish those people.
It’s no wonder he turns and rebukes them.

Jesus’ way is respect and compassion.
It’s ironic and tragic at present
that some leaders who claim to be Christian
think that missiles will force a surrender.
They are bullies demanding submission:
those who crucified Christ made such choices.

Jesus chose to be humble and homeless
with no claim to high status or palace.
If you follow him, try to tread lightly
on this Earth so that all have sufficient.
Far too many are addicts of plenty
and will sacrifice welfare for winning.
	Barbara Messner 26/06/2025