Reversal

 

I was reminded today in Morning Prayer that Hannah’s Song from 1 Samuel and Mary’s Song from Luke are similar in that both speak of God’s radical reversal of roles. Specifically, those well off end up disadvantaged and those not so well off (poor) finish strong in God’s eyes. Jesus echoes this in his “First will be last and last will be first” and “a leader is servant of all” talk.  

If you read this (or write it for that matter,) you are rich. How will you prepare for eternity by embracing the poor, forgotten and suffering who have God’s favor?

Jesus said:

“Blessed are the poor in spirit,
    for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn,
    for they will be comforted.
Blessed are the meek,
    for they will inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
    for they will be filled.
Blessed are the merciful,
    for they will be shown mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart,
    for they will see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers,
    for they will be called children of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,
    for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

Matthew 5:3-11 (NIV)