They Asked Only That We Remember the Poor

This meditation is based on a passage for January 25, 2011 in the Daily Lectionary Year 1 from the Book of Common Worship for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (1993).

Text: Galatians 1:18-2:10

Reflection and Question: In Paul’s letter to the Galatians a few decades after the Crucifixion, the direction of Christian mission hangs in the balance. Paul fervently lays out his case for seeing Jewish law from a new perspective after Jesus. He supports his argument by describing his encounter in Jerusalem with the pillars of the community, James, Peter and John who did not see a problem with Paul’s acceptance of Gentiles despite the fact that the Gentiles were not fulfilling Jewish law. Instead, James, Peter and John cared about receiving help for the poor. What priorities do you see for the Christian mission in our time?

Prayer: Holy Spirit, Love Divine, You filled the hearts of Jews and Gentiles alike, inspiring Paul, James, Peter and John to see beyond the Law. Leaders of the church, then, gave priority to the poor. Lead us now to remember the poor as they did. Amen.