Advent in the Empire
Last Sunday we discussed the calling to challenge the empire directly; this Sunday we consider how that challenge is lived out in light of Christ's example. It can often be difficult to frame our resistance in the context of loving our enemies; it seems as though violence is ultimately a more effective means of overthrowing evil, violent men. And yet, the Maccabean revolt that culminated in Hanukkah lasted only 100 years; Jesus' revolution continues 2,000 years after His death and resurrection.
Dust of the Rabbi: Loving Subversively Under the Empire
Nothing unravels the systems of the Empire like the love that Jesus embodies. In Luke 6:27-36, Jesus gives what is often called "the Sermon on the Plain." This set of commands is more than merely moral teaching - it is designed to radically reshape our understanding of community, economics, relationships, and conflict. To love subversively means that we can effect more transformation through our faithfulness to these commands than through all the political maneuvering and mass media and commercialism of our modern Empire. Violence will not be overthrown by violence, but by the suffering servant (Isaiah 53:1-12). Greed will not be overcome by financial regulators and anti-trust suits, but by giving to everyone who asks of us.
Jesus models this life for us in His radical love that accepted and overcame even suffering and death. We then are called to challenge the empire by a subversive love that undermines the pillars of all empires: power, greed, violence, self-centeredness, indulgence, entertainment. Look over the last century and note the impact of even one person following Him faithfully (Martin Luther King, Mother Theresa). If all the disciples of Jesus truly embraced His commands, how do you imagine the world would be today? Do we choose to ignore the tools Christ gave us because we think they will not work, or because we think they are not worth the work they require?
Extras:
In the midst of this Christmas season, we have the opportunity to challenge the empire's assimilation of our holiday. The institutions of the secular Christmas industry (from Santa Claus and elves to Macy's Christmas sales) are designed to focus our time and wealth on the purchase, giving and acquisition of things. And yet, our money is entrusted to us by God so that we might use it for His Kingdom. How can you make loving subversively a part of your holiday season, refocusing on Christ in the midst of a culture focused on commercialism?