Continuing the scandal…
Risky. Dangerous. Such was the life and message of Jesus. He promised blessings and fulness of life to those who were not offended – literally scandalized – by his words and deeds.*
But many were scandalized. Especially the traditional, institutionalized religious community of his day. So scandalized, in fact, that in spite of all their differences, they came together, exercised their worldly, political power, and had him crucified.
But the kernel of wheat that fell to the ground and died, came forth from the grave and produced a harvest of changed lives.** His followers continued to trumpet his message of “Good News, God’s kingdom is among us.”***
And just as their Lord, they attracted people from all walks of life. Barriers were removed and replaced by open doors.
In time, like their Lord, they left the exclusive and controlling religious camps of their day. They had no choice. They were no longer welcome. But outside the walls, they found life abundant and full. They experienced freedom, and they tasted the goodness of God.