Day 6 - March 2

Stacey Cole Wilson

Because of God (I Am), We Are ~

Inspired by the South African concept of Ubuntu and Leviticus 19:1–2,11–18; Matthew 25:31–46; Psalm 19:7–14.

Where is the evidence that God exists and that God’s existence substantiates our own? Who is this Force called God and what is God’s nature? Is God the Creator of humankind, the heavens and the earth; and if so, is God limited by the laws it creates? Is God fragile and finite? More specifically, why would God (YHVH, the Eternal One, I am Who I Am, I will be Who I Will Be, Hashem, the Name, Love) invite me, you, us into existence as a part of God-self for such a time as this? Why would God create us as a human family (community) and intricately connect our lives to God, one another and the rest of God’s creation?

Our scripture readings offer responses to these questions. They remind us that because God is, we are. They remind us that God is Eternal (has no beginning, end or death), is Holy (set apart from all that exists), and that God is the Human’s Redeemer, Rock and Soul Reviver. Furthermore, God gives imperfect beings power to transform our selves and God’s world.

In some way, these texts point us to God’s highest law which is Love in action. This Love correlates love of God, neighbor and self. It is an ethnorelative kind of love. Because of God’s love, we are… here, loved, respected, claimed and now we must go and do likewise. This love makes no room for any hierarchy of human value. This is our why. This is our lifework and prayer for this glorifies God.

Eternal Word, Thank you for the gift of your presence. Thank you for being mindful of us and for interpreting the groans of Your children here and around the world. Reveal Yourself to us and cause us to love one another as you love us. You know everything. We are Your Creation. Let your will be done as it is in heaven. In the Name of Jesus, we ask it all. Amen