URC Daily Devotion 10 December 2024

Reflection
In our readings from Luke’s gospel we are regularly confronted by Jesus’ encounters with those who are on the margins of first century Palestinian society. Today’s reading starts with ‘after this’, which begs the question “after what?”  Jesus has just dealt with some wanton destruction of property, and a person excluded from society through disability. He is now dealing with someone who, for whatever reason, has marginalised himself, through collaboration with the occupying forces. 

Not only does Jesus befriend this traitor, but then feasts with Levi’s friends and acquaintances, none of whom belong in polite society. The respectable citizens are enraged. Quite why they want Jesus to themselves is questionable – though they do enjoy trying to trip him up with their questions, and when they ask him why he’s mixing with all the wrong people, he manages a response which is both flattering to them, and also a bit of  a put down.

At our last General Assembly we were challenged about being a church with people on the margins. The question of who is on the margins is a fascinating one. We might even perceive ourselves, as people of faith, to be those who are on the margins of society ourselves! Who are the people in our own communities who, by choice or chance – or a combination of the two – are on the margins? And how can we, as individual disciples, or as a community of Christians, work with them to bring about signs of the Kingdom?

Prayer
Lord Jesus, help us to see those who are marginalised, to listen to voices are seldom heard, and to be changed by those who have a different perspective on life and faith.
 
Help us to work together to bring about your kingdom – your rule – in and beyond the Church.

Amen