Introduction
In the gospel passage Jesus makes clear that even the apparently strong can be subjugated and in unexpected ways. This message gives hope for those who are themselves victims of abusers and oppressors. This prompts reflection on where, how and over whom power is exercised. Jesus broadens the understanding of family by including others who sit with him. They represent all who seek to do God’s will.
This week's news
In this week’s news there are three very different stories about power, how it is exercised, and how it can be responded to:
- A 14-year old Syrian boy is tortured.
- Sepp Blatter quits as FIFA president.
- A cruise ship capsizes in China.
Reflection
‘This is the corruption of a generation. The children of the IS will grow into young men trained to kill and hate and they will trouble Syria and Iraq for years to come’ writes the BBC news reporter at the end of the story of the torture of children, and their use to further the so-called Islamic State. This is an abuse of power that can bring us close to despair. However Jesus reminds us that even the most powerful are subject to God, and attempts to hide behind God as justification for actions can be construed as blasphemy against the Holy Spirit.
However, this is not an excuse to attack others. It is also appropriate to consider ways in which the Church has misused power by condoning abuse and ignoring the vulnerable. Jesus reminds us that we can be forgiven, but there is also here a reminder of the need for repentance to enable that forgiveness to become real.
The sinking of the cruise ship in the Yangtze River is a tragedy for a community. However the determination to win the race against time, and the way in which thousands of rescuers worked through the night, is an example of hope. It is also an example of tireless and selfless effort for the benefit of others, which thus includes the rescuers within the family of God. Jesus redefined the family of God by his inclusion of those seeking to understand and follow kingdom values (Mark 3 34-35).
The resignation of Sepp Blatter from FIFA is a response to corruption and a lack of confidence. The full story has not yet emerged, and although there have been arrests, there have not been convictions. The story merits reflection in relation to motivation, to the question: on whose behalf power is held, and to whom the powerful are subject? Jesus reflects on similar issues in Mark 3 27-30 without giving a categorical answer.
Genesis 3.8-15 describes what happens when people turn away from God, and seek too much power. It is a passage about responsibility, and Adam and Eve both have to bear the consequences of their actions. In the news story about Islamic State, and in the account about Sepp Blatter, there is opportunity for reflection on responsibility and the consequences of our actions.
Prayer
Focus intercessory prayers on the powerful and the vulnerable. For example
We pray...
for those who live in poverty, and those who live in plenty,
that all people might use their resources not simply for their own benefit;
for those in positions of power,
either through their role, their employment or their wealth,
that they may respect those over whom their power is exercised;
for those who are victims of cyber bullying,
those who are abused and live in fear of any sort of violence,
that their abusers may find repentance and the victims peace;
for all the children of the world and those who have influence over them.
May we and all your children
recognise the power we hold and the power held over us;
help us to respect each other
and not to misuse what we have
to the detriment of our brothers and sisters.
Amen.
As a simple worship activity you could invite people to help you to write an acrostic prayer on the word POWER.
Questions
- What power do you have? How do you use it? Over whom do you exercise it?
- Where do you see hope for the vulnerable? What can you do to make that hope a reality?
- Do you feel that Jesus means you when he refers to his brothers and sisters?
Action
Every day for the next week, spend some time identifying a person or group of people who are vulnerable. Pray for them that they may have hope.
Young People
Share with the final paragraphs of Quentin Somerville’s report on the Syrian boy who was tortured. Give an opportunity to voice how they might feel if that was their life. What have they got to be thankful for?
Stuart Wild is the Superintendent Minister of the Manchester Methodist Circuit, and minister of Didsbury and East Didsbury Methodist Churches.
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