Paying Attention

It’s the Biblical preacher part of Dr. King’s legacy I’m reflecting on this year, and how he represented his understanding of God and scripture to the world.  Today it’s preachers from the Christian Right who command the public stage, and their witness doesn’t stand up very well by comparison.  

Dr. King defended poor and marginalized minorities against the strong and powerful, in keeping with the biblical prophets and Jesus (who commended “the least of these”).  Today’s national preachers ally themselves with the powerful and demonize marginalized minorities, such as those who happen to be gay, on welfare, etc.

Dr. King advocated distributive justice for the poor, in keeping with hundreds of biblical texts.  Today’s preachers turn that upside down, advocating “tough love” for the poor and tax cuts for the rich.

Dr. King was rejected when he dared resist war in the name of the Prince of Peace.  Today’s preachers are militarists and invoke God in service to empire.

Dr. King gave away his prize money and died with just a modest house to his name.  Today’s preachers keep alot for themselves, as evidenced  by their luxury cars, planes, mansions and jewelry.

Dr. King condemned churches both black and white for being more concerned with income than injustice.  Today’s preachers… well, you get the idea.

Dr. King saw his mission as holding society accountable to God.

Today’s “God bless America” preachers see their mission as holding God accountable to society.