Introduction
The many events of the last week – some dramatic, some truly tragic – have largely revolved around contrasting visions. On the one hand, UK politicians have been busy on the campaign trail, seeking to share their vision (manifesto) of what the country will be like if they win the General Election. On the other, we witnessed the horrific events of the London Bridge atrocity, where terrorists used unspeakable violence to champion their warped vision of society.
Jesus’ vision of a world based around love, peace, truth and justice was the primary reason for the eleven disciples climbing the mountain to meet with him before he ascended. While in his presence, Jesus unpacked his manifesto to his followers, which was to share this message with the entire world, and set in motion the means to achieve it.
Context
- Leaders of the major political parties carry out one final push before the General Election.
- Pollsters are confident that they will predict the General Election result.
- MI5 is asked for answers as to how a known Jihadi entered Britain.
- There has been a rise in hate crime since the London Bridge attack.
Reflection
All mainstream politicians have a vision for our country in which ‘real’ change is effected by democratic means. The more astute ones devise catchy slogans that enable the populace to latch on to their upbeat ideas of a ‘brighter future’ or a ‘change for the better. ’It is often suggested that only desperate politicians – those bereft of a real vision – adopt negative or fear-driven campaigns, as most political pundits believe that positivity invariably trumps negativity with the electorate. As the election campaign ends, many political commentators suggest that election fatigue set in weeks ago, and that most people just want the whole event to end.
Unlike politicians, who must go in search of votes on the campaign trail, Jesus (and his message) was so appealing that his disciples went in search of him. In today’s Gospel passage, we read that on the advice of the women, the eleven disciples climbed a mountain to receive what would be their final instructions from the Lord before he ascended. What is more, unlike elected officials who find it difficult to put their manifestos into practice once in office, there were no ‘U-turns’ with Jesus’ promises. When he pledged to be with his disciples until the end of the age, he had both the will and power to accomplish this.
And, while ‘All political careers end in failure’, and government manifestos and policies get ditched, the risen Lord Jesus’ message of love, peace and justice has traversed the world, and continues to transform people’s lives wherever it is encountered and embraced.
Prayer
Gracious Lord,
we thank you that we – individually and collectively –
have the opportunity of experiencing your presence.
We are also grateful that neither time nor space limit your presence –
you are with us wherever we go.
Help us to take the name of Jesus with us on life’s journey,
unashamed to talk about all that you have done for us,
and all that you can do for others.
We ask this in Jesus’ name.
Amen.
Questions
- How comfortable are you sharing the Gospel with others?
- The disciples climbed a mountain to be with Jesus, such was their ardour. Is there anything cooling your ardour for the Lord?
Action
In the Gospel reading, the eleven disciples met with Jesus, and then went out into the world to share the good news. Pray for, and look for opportunities to support the work of, those organisations that share the gospel with hard to reach communities, or who work with Christians facing persecution.
Young people
The London Bridge and Manchester atrocities left many people with financial difficulties and life-changing injuries. Could you do something to raise funds for the charities who are bringing relief to those affected by these recent events?
Richard Reddie is a writer and cultural commentator. His most recent book, ‘Martin Luther King Jr: History Maker’ is published by Lion Hudson. He attends St James Church (C of E) West Streatham, London.
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