Given by Rev. Madison Shockley September 20, 2020 at Pilgrim UCC in Carlsbad CA pilgrimucc.org
Our reading today tells the story of the Israelites complaining about being hungry in the wilderness. After all God did for them to be free, they were still unhappy. In every revolution, there are those who complain. They prefer life under slavery to a life in the wilderness. They are afraid of change. Life is uncertain. They lack the courage to be free. An example in our history is Benedict Arnold. He betrayed our country for money and recognition from the British. During WWII, Vidkun Quisling betrayed Norway. Even Jesus had Judas. Revolution breeds heroes and traitors. The Hebrew people were in a revolution. They were seeking a new life. They wanted to leave Egypt to worship God which is to live the justice of God. This means equality for all. Everyone should have enough to eat. Everyone should be treated equal under the law. No one should treated differently due to gender, sexual orientation, skin color, or ethnicity. We want to live lives of faith. Love your neighbor as yourself. Do unto others as you would have others do unto you. These are simple rules. Another lesson we learn from our reading is in every revolution, there are setbacks. We just need to persevere. We learn that if we complain or protest, God hears us and sends relief. We need to make a lot of noise today. We have a big opportunity. We need to vote. We cannot lose hope. Continue to live a life seeking the justice of God.
Video: