19/08/2021

The Old Testament, particularly in its character as the history of the Sons of Israel, is difficult for me to grasp as it is truly of its place and times, without the Grace brought to the World by the Incarnation. I have heard it preached that  Abraham' s acceptance of the Lord's command to sacrifice Isaac should be read as an allegory forbidding human sacrifices. "Do not teach your children that God ordered a human sacrifice". Today's story from Judges records an event many centuries later that brings that interpretation into doubt as the Lord does accept the killing of Jepthah's daughter, at least the if killing went ahead as promised.

The moral superiority of the Jews in the Old Testament is largely in their recognition of  One God  and following the Law as revealed to Moses.. Most of their time is spent in living the same life as their neighbours and enemies but periodically this equanimity is interrupted by the revelations of the prophets directly inspired by God.

Jesus too reveals a similar continuity with the culture of the Middle East. In this parable the King has no compunction in wiping out those who have offended him. The unwilling guests did not make excuses they slaughtered the messengers, this is the reality of the history of Israel.

 My fear is that the one who sneaked into Wedding Feast could be me.

The Father, Son and Holy Spirit, the Incarnation, Crucifixion and Resurrection know me and are my salvation.

Dear Lord you know my sincerity as it is undermined by temptation. Let my prayers be answered in all my deeds.