It is the Law

The rules are a challenge to many. The texts today from the Roman Catholic Lectionary invite consideration of the role of rules in bringing changes to our lives which will move us closer to the joy and praise proclaimed by the psalmist as found in the court of the Lord. The Council of Jerusalem, which Friar Jude Winkler comments would be better referred to as the meeting in Jerusalem, freed Gentiles who came to be baptized as followers of Jesus from observance of the Jewish law. This decision invokes contemplation about the universal applicability of rules which we choose, follow and feel the need to impose on others. The Law served the Jews. It did not serve the growth of the Love shown by Jesus in the Gentile community. Discussion today about the millennial generation, who are roughly in the 20-35 year age group, suggests that they share similar desires to the 60ish “boomers”, yet lack the confidence in the rules and institutions of the dominant culture. The counter cultural ethics of the “Woodstock generation” have morphed to be the rules of society. The Gospel of John today presents the path to Love and “Shalom” in God through abiding in Jesus and being empowered to die to self in the loving service of God and people. John reminds us and Friar Jude notes that we sometimes need commandments to keep us from the disorder and selfishness which will may direct us away from our deeper goal of living in Love.