Tuesday, October 1, 2019

Blessed are the Merciful. Remember?

Why is it we never hear Evangelicals or their leaders speak publicly or preach about the Beatitudes? They’re quick, for instance, to condemn anyone for a perceived sin, no doubt. Or to refuse service to anyone that is perceived to impinge on their religious freedom.

Franklin Graham recently reminded Pete Buttigieg, Democratic candidate for president, that being gay is a "sin, something to be repentant of, not something to be flaunted, praised or politicized."

"He that is without sin among you, let him cast the first stone..."

Remember the Beatitudes? Apparently, this group of so-called Christians do not. 

Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

They could provide food, clothing, or shelter for the immigrants being held in cages along our Southern border. Jesus did. He cured the sick; healed the blind; and, fed the hungry. Even if they thought the immigrants should be quickly deported, they could make it their mission to give them soap so they could take a shower. Or perhaps milk for the children.

Jesus washed the feet of his apostles and would be the perfect example for this type of service mission.

And yet, what we hear is their discrimination attempts in the name of religious freedom. Evangelicals in this country should get back to the basics and read the gospels of Jesus Christ. They might be surprised.