In response to the Pharisees enquiring about the most important commandment, Jesus tells us that loving God, our neighbour, and ourselves are most important and that “All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments”.
The Law Jesus is speaking of is the Torah, expressed in 613 laws. Jesus summarises what the most significant thing about these rules is: that they are intended to guide people towards an expression of love – firstly, for God, and then for all others, nature and ourselves. They are for the good of all. In the New Covenant, Jesus emphasises that this remains the same.
This means that when we look at the rules of our homes, schools, community groups, political parties, churches and nations, these are the criteria we seek to fulfil. These rules should serve everyone and be inclusive and just. The intention is to bring connection and not division, to include and not to divide, to show care for all God’s creation. Jesus always emphasises those on the fringes of society, the ‘little ones’. God offers loving kindness, mercy and compassion.
That is the example we are to follow.
The Prophets are those who are part of the whole community but who look in on their group with a critical eye of wisdom and honesty. They look for places for growth, identify injustice, exclusion and division and see the neglect of smaller groups. We see this in the prophets of old. They demanded of the Israelites that
they conform to God’s covenant of love. The prophets often scolded the people for neglecting God’s requirement of love. The people worshipped false gods and lost the sense of justice and care for all. They served themselves selfishly, failing to be guided by God. They arrogantly saw themselves as being in control and not needing God. All kinds of injustice occurred. The needs of all were not met.
We need prophets in our times, too. South Africa is in great need of bonding and care for all, especially the most neglected: the poor, women and children, refugees, and the unemployed. Who are the prophets? We are! Each of us is baptised as a priest, prophet and king. Will I stand on the edge of my nation, political party, church or other groups and see what is good? And, also see the failures – where love of God, love of neighbour and self are not
happening?
Prophets not only see but speak out and act on what they see. God always asks in love, not in judgement, not by dividing, not by punishing/violence, but in restorative ways, discussion, bringing dignity to others, promoting sharing and compassion and service. This is the guideline.
What is the injustice I see today that God calls me to point out, speak out about, and act on in love? Where can I grow in my role as a prophet?
Reflections by Kath
Knowles
