Once the trees went to anoint a king over themselves.
So they said to the olive tree, 'Reign over us.'
But the olive tree answered them, 'Must I give up my rich oil, whereby men and gods are honored, and go to wave over the trees?'
This Old Testament parable from the Book of Judges should sound familiar to anyone concerned for the state of democracy in America. Leaders of the Democratic Party, after suffering huge losses last November, are looking for a younger generation to run for elective offices in state and federal elections. Republicans, somewhat more energized but nonetheless undermined by strident supporters and incompetent leaders, are trying to represent their conservative principles to a disinterested, disengaged generation.
In today's parable the Judge Jotham described how all the worthy leaders of the people reneged on their responsibilities, leaving a vacuum for the despot Abimelech. He had murdered fifty of his kin so as to inherit his father Jerubbaal's rule but his supporters did not seem troubled by his crimes.
Nor should the story be unfamiliar to many Catholic and Christian congregations. Church councils and committees are often filled by the least unwilling. Standing for election for even the most important responsibilities is the same as accepting the office; there is no opposition.
God's presence is apparent by his absence in such proceedings. With infinite wisdom the Lord allows his people to be misled by their own unwillingness and punished for that "spirituality" which remains disengaged from real life. People get the leadership they deserve, whether their government is democratic, aristocratic, plutocratic or dictatorial.
There are few simple answers in this real world and separating faith from politics is not one of them. As Saint James said, "Faith without works is dead."
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I love to write. This blog helps me to meditate on the Word of God, and I hope to make some contribution to our contemplations of God's Mighty Works.
Ordinarily, I write these reflections two or three weeks in advance of their publication. I do not intend to comment on current events.
I understand many people prefer gender-neutral references to "God." I don't disagree with them but find that language impersonal, unappealing and tasteless. When I refer to "God" I think of the One whom Jesus called "Abba" and "Father", and I would not attempt to improve on Jesus' language.
You're welcome to add a thought or raise a question.