February 12: Sixth Sunday in Epiphany

Deuteronomy 30:15-20; Psalm 119:1-8; 1 Corinthians 3:1-9; Matthew 5:21-37

“Happy are they whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the LORD!” (119:1).

At Coffee Table Communion this week we talked about the way of life that Moses sets before the people.  When he tells them to “choose life,” he means for them to keep the many commandments he has just given them.  Pages and pages of rules, of restrictions and mandates.  It can sound exhausting.  But he says to the people, “Surely, this commandment that I am commanding you today is not too hard for you” (Dt. 30:11).  It is meant to be not a burden but a blessing.  As we say in 12-Step rooms, it is the “easier, softer way” once we understand it.

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus continues to deepen this way.  And once again, it looks like more burden.  Not only are we not to murder; we are not even to rest in our anger and rancor.  We are to be faithful in our relationships (OK, the whole passage on divorce deserves another post, I know, but we are called to be faithful).  We are to be honest and trustworthy without a lot of fuss.  He’s setting a high bar here.  But later he says his yoke is easy, and his burden in light (Mt. 11:30).  What does he mean?

You know, in your heart.  The way of Jesus is demanding, but the rewards are enormous.  The way of anger and rampant desire is the way to death.  If you aren’t convinced, look at our current political situation.  Do the principal actors in that drama look to you like they’re happy and free?  They sure don’t to me. 

In Jesus’ upside-down world, the meek do inherit what matters.  The peacemakers are blessed.  The pure of heart see God.  The merciful receive mercy.  Those who forgive, who reconcile with their companions, are set free.  It looks like a lot of work, and it is.  But it is the path of life, and hope, and freedom.

We don't choose this way or walk this road alone.  We are propelled and supported by God and our companions.  If you think this work is all up to you, think again.  You are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses who are praying for you and with you, walking the road alongside you.  And you, as you walk, become part of that cloud for others.

May you be blessed today and every day on the path of life.