Musings on the Daily Lectionary

My theological tradition produced, among others, the Dutch Reformed Church, the French Huguenots, the Presbyterians, and those barrels of fun the Puritans. Perhaps it's a stereotype, but many of us get our image of dour religion from folks such as the Puritans. And many people imagine most Christians as having a low fun quotient. They think of religious folks as worried about making sure everyone is behaving. They imagine us to be very judgmental, and, quite naturally, tend to imagine God in the same way.

One quote that I've heard used countless times in movies and on TV picks up on this image. A puritanical preacher hurls fire and brimstone judgments down on someone he views as a moral failure. And wagging an accusing finger at them says, "Vengeance is mine sayeth the Lord!"

Curious that this phrase is sometimes used to justify hatred or even violence against others, especially when you read it in its context. Paul is concluding his letter to the church at Rome with some general admonitions about Christian living, and the line about God's vengeance is there to dissuade them from using violence or taking vengeance. "Do not repay anyone evil for evil, but take thought for what is noble in the sight of all. If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave room for the wrath of God; for it is written, 'Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.' "

Paul clearly believes that God does judge, but he is insistent that we should leave that to God. In fact he urges us to care for our enemies as our way of getting back at them. Not much like the dour preacher with the wagging finger. And Paul also counsels rejoicing, love, hope, blessing others, living in harmony, being patient.

What sort of image do you have of religion? Perhaps more importantly, what sort of image do you project for others to see. Lord, help me to let others see your love.

Click here to learn more about the Daily Lectionary.