The Privilege Problem

There is an expression, "Don't do as I do; do as I say."

Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples,"The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses' seat; therefore, do whatever they teach you and follow it; but do not do as they do, for they do not practice what they teach. They tie up heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on the shoulders of others; but they themselves are unwilling to lift a finger to move them. They do all their deeds to be seen by others; for they make their phylacteries broad and their fringes long. They love to have the place of honor at banquets and the best seats in the synagogues, and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, and to have people call them rabbi. But you are not to be called rabbi, for you have one teacher, and you are all students. And call no one your father on earth, for you have one Father—the one in heaven. Nor are you to be called instructors, for you have one instructor, the Messiah. The greatest among you will be your servant. All who exalt themselves will be humbled, and all who humble themselves will be exalted. - Matthew 23:1-12

What would the world be like if everyone in authority followed the rules and laws they defend?

If we listen to all the loud voices, we might get the impression that we are not all treated equally, and in many instances that may prove to be true, but is it the system that is flawed, or those who carry it out?

Jesus told his disciples the laws and rules are just and should be followed, but those who administer them are not to be trusted.

Good advice, even for us today.

Those in authority can easily find themselves tempted to bend the rules for themselves or for those they feel need help.

Helping others is a good thing, and we should all try to do what we can for those who are struggling, but there should be a way to stay within the law when we do that.

When we start making exceptions for one, we find ourselves justifying exceptions for many, and soon none of what we profess to support is valid anymore.

So, maybe we should take Jesus' advice and act from a place of humility.

What can I do for you?  

If we take a close look at the laws and rules and discover there is no legal way to help those who need it, then maybe it is time to reevaluate the laws.

But in the meantime, simple acts of kindness on our part can move mountains.

Happy Independence Day!

More to come...