The 4th of July, Independence Day in the United States. It is a day of fireworks, parades, barbecues, carnivals, fairs, picnics, concerts baseball games, family reunions, political speeches, and ceremonies.
With all its fan fair the day, is about government commemorating the ratification of the Declaration of Independence and the overthrow of British rule.
Last I checked there will be no 4th of July celebration here in the Holy Land. However, absent the hot dogs this day does allow reflection on the role of government during the time of Jesus and how we should view government today.
The Roman empire was the ruling governmental authority during the time of Jesus. So, when Jesus proclaimed the kingdom of God, he implicitly questioned the supremacy of Rome. In saying God’s kingdom is at hand implies that Caesar’s kingdom is not the ultimate.
American exceptionalism is the belief that the United States is either distinctive, unique, or exemplary compared to other nations. Many faith leaders have endorsed the concept believing that in the United States man has created a society that would be the best and the happiest in the world. And that American exceptionalism was ordained by God.
In his ministry, Jesus sought to foster renewal among his people, in part by expanding the scope of who would be included among people of the covenant. Hence, he came into conflict with the religious leaders who would be more restrictive, the guardians of the law and the guardians of the temple.
The restrictive view of American exceptionalism runs counter to the teachings of Jesus. The Gospel reveals Christ call that all are created equal, a claim not written by slaveholders’ intent to keep their way of life, but a command from God, who is intent to give life more abundantly to all.
Therefore, the independence we celebrate today is truly our interdependence on God. Because we sever the Kingdom of God not the Roman Empire, not the State of Israel and not the U.S. Government.
So, when government diminishes God’s people by breaking up families at the U.S. southern border of launching airstrikes into a Palestinian refugee camp in Israel. God’s people should be angry, God’s people should be distressed, and God’s people call out their governments while praying for peace.
Happy 4th of July from the Holy Land
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