I cannot say enough about the benefits of following a proscribed
lectionary. When we pick and choose what verses we will read, we tend to
look for answers in the Bible, rather than allowing God to inform us of
the essential questions.
This week, my lectionary is directing
me to verses from Zechariah. This is a book I would seldom refer to, if
left on my own. If you open your bibles and start to read this short
book, you may say, "With good reason!" There are images and references
in there which could confuse us and make us wonder about the geography
of the ancient world. He names cities and countries which have long
gone away or been renamed.
But the message of Zechariah's contribution to Holy Scripture comes through.
In
the 11th chapter, he recounts an experience of serving as shepherd. He
serves not just any flock, but over "the flock doomed to slaughter."
He sets about the task of admonishing the other shepherds, with the aim
of providing "Favor" and "Unity." But there is a rebellion and
Zechariah is opposed. Finally, he leaves the sheep, doomed to
slaughter, to their end.
What is it with these sheep? Why do
they reject the oversight and care of the shepherd attempting to be
helpful? Why is there a rejection of the one who comes in order to make
things right?
Good questions. Pertinent questions. Eternal questions.
We
never seem to fully grasp the opportunity which is set before us. We
have been shown a King who uses his position to serve and provide; we
choose instead the kings which enslave and drain us of life.
There
is something alluring about that which glitters and sparkles and offers
us the chance at self-aggrandizement. But life is found, life occurs
when we devote ourselves to those things which unite us and make us one
with each other, with creation, and with the God who created us.
During this week of Christ the King, we reflect on the daily decision of which king we will follow.
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