I found the first two readings to be way too violent for my taste. On the other hand, when I look at the news and the blatant racism and classism going on in our legal system right now, I think violence IS a reasonable response. I think part of my problem with the Old Testament readings is that the speaker is unwilling to take responsibility for the violence. They want God to be the violent one, not themselves. On the one hand, as a person of faith, there is no excuse for violence in God's name without God actually there leading. On the other, if you are going to be violent for the sake of your freedom or better treatment, own it as the right or best or available choice, don't blame it on God.
The New Testament reading particularly Luke 21 verses 34-36 is something I found much more personally valuable.
Whether it is "stand[ing] before the Son of Man" or anything else important we have a tendency to get involved in the necessities of living and lose sight of it. I think this tends to be particularly likely with regards to things like family, faith, love, nature - all things people of faith count as works and blessings from God or the Holy.34 “Be on guard so that your hearts are not weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of this life, and that day does not catch you unexpectedly, 35 like a trap. For it will come upon all who live on the face of the whole earth. 36 Be alert at all times, praying that you may have the strength to escape all these things that will take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.”
20141214 Fixed Typo while updating labels
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