Worthless Is Quite A Different Thing

“You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to a brother or sister, ‘Raca,’ is answerable to the court. And anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell.” Matthew 5: 21-23

I have always been told that “Raca” meant “Fool,” which is one thing.  But “Raca” means “Worthless” in the ancient Hebrew. Which is a different sort of thing.  Quite honestly, each of us is foolish, and we are wont to demonstrate that on a daily basis. But worthless is quite a different matter.  This boils down to the core issue of all of the law and prophets: love.  In that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.  For He so loved the world.  God has an overwhelming passionate love for each and every person, and if we cannot let go of our judgment and hatred, then we do not understand the big picture.  And are in danger of the fire of hell.  Judge not less you be judged. 

This is quite the serious issue, and cannot and should not be brushed aside.  Wandering around the internet, popping in verse references is an amazing experience- really and truly a gift from God in these last days, as we can enjoy the bodyness of Christ at a whole new level.  For instance, there is “The Matthew Project: Evangelicals for Nuclear Reduction is the hopeful work of evangelicals, who through biblical and theological reflection and careful political analysis seek to provide a realistic approach to the nuclear weapons problem” based totally on this little section of scripture, so gripping should it be.  This is Rick Warren and George Shultz level of evangelicalism. Jesus Christ Commands Us to Go, Make Peace with Our Adversary: Matthew 5:21-26 is a command, not an option. The sanctity of all human life created in the image of God includes all persons.

And oh how difficult this is.  I am about to do my Sunday morning thing, read the newspaper… once I start marinating the Father Day steaks for the guys.  And is it possible to read the paper, the words, deeds and opinions of humanity, and grieve, but still not sin?  To be caught up in mercy, not judgment.  And to be aware of God’s great love for each of these, His lost sheep?  None of this absolute wickedness catches Him by surprise.  As he stood looking down over the teeming masses, he cried out:Jerusalem, Jerusalem, who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, the way a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing.”  And yet, with this clear understanding of rejection, still He set His face for Jerusalem, and offered Himself in our stead. 

Am I willing to follow His footsteps?