By Beth DeCristofaro
Cast away your calf, O Samaria! My wrath is kindled against them; How long
will they be unable to attain innocence in Israel? The work of an artisan, no god at all, Destined
for the flames—such is the calf of Samaria! (Hosea 8:5-6)
Jesus went around to all the towns and villages, teaching
in their synagogues, proclaiming the Gospel of the Kingdom, and curing every
disease and illness. At the sight of the
crowds, his heart was moved with pity for them because they were troubled and
abandoned, like sheep without a shepherd. (Matthew 9:35-36)
Piety
Father God help me
recognize your glorious creation around me all day and remain gratefully
joyous. Walk beside me, Brother Jesus
that I might experience and share your mercy today. Breathe Grace into me today, Holy Spirit, to
shine with your light not the flames of worldly illusion.
Study
We are still experienced
artisans fashioning our own calves of idolatry even to this day. And they still lead us into destructive
behaviors, stunted personal growth, deadened relationships and even disillusionment
with God who doesn’t answer the entreaties we utter to our idols. Jesus is the Shepherd, compassionate,
bestowing mercy no matter a person’s
economic status, what border he crossed, whether she was properly introduced to
him or not or was even an adversary.
It’s a tall order
to look at people with empathy all the time but it is life-sucking to view
people as antagonists, competitors, threats or inferior as viewed from the back
of my golden calf. God gave the people
of Samaria the chance to turn back just like God gave second chances to the
Israelites time and again. Should I do
less than offer mercy in Jesus’ name and expect God’s mercy in return?
Action
Such divisive
times. Where could I today offer
reconciliation? I can start by looking
honestly and clearly at the golden calves I have elevated in my life and which
obstruct my view and my actions toward Jesus’ brothers and sisters around
me. Cast away any calf and touch Jesus’
robe in a request for healing.
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