One benefit of reading and rereading the Bible is that every time we come, even to a familiar text, we are in a different time and place. Like now, for example. As I write, authorities across the country are preparing for widespread, perhaps violent, protests, over the next week from disgruntled Republicans. If people are willing to storm the Capitol building while Congress is in session, what else might they do? I know people who were at the January 6 rally although they broke off from the march to the Capitol as soon as the police showed up. I get emails from friends, fellow believers, forwarding all kinds of “calls to action.” With that sort of thing in mind, a few days ago I was reading Matthew 5, Jesus’ words from the Sermon on the Mount. Do they apply?
38 “Your ancestors have also been taught, ‘Take an eye in exchange for an eye and a tooth in exchange for a tooth.’ 39 However, I say to you, don’t repay an evil act with another evil act. But whoever insults you by slapping you on the right cheek, turn the other to him as well… 41 And should people in authority take advantage of you, do more than what they demand. 42 Learn to generously share what you have with those who ask for help, and don’t close your heart to the one who comes to borrow from you.”
43 “Your ancestors have also been taught ‘Love your neighbors and hate the one who hates you.’ 44 However, I say to you, love your enemy, bless the one who curses you, do something wonderful for the one who hates you, and respond to the very ones who persecute you by praying for them. 45 For that will reveal your identity as children of your heavenly Father. He is kind to all by bringing the sunrise to warm and rainfall to refresh whether a person does what is good or evil. 46 What reward do you deserve if you only love the loveable? Don’t even the tax collectors do that? 47 How are you any different from others if you limit your kindness only to your friends? Don’t even the ungodly do that? 48 Since you are children of a perfect Father in heaven, you are to be perfect like him.” (Matthew 5.38 – 48, ESV)
And does this apply?
Do not call conspiracy all that this people calls conspiracy, and do not fear what they fear, nor be in dread. But the LORD of hosts, him you shall honor as holy. Let him be your fear, and let him be your dread. And he will become a sanctuary… (Isaiah 8.11 – 14, ESV)