The book, Jesus for President, by Shane Claiborne and Chris Haw, cleverly lays out in words and artwork how the world might look if we truly embraced what Jesus offered. Every once in a while I thumb through it as a reminder of the truth of Christianity. Today it was helpful.

The gospel readings of the past few days give us a glimpse into the popularity Jesus experienced and how those around him reacted to his popularity. At one point so many people tried to get into a house where Jesus was staying that it was impossible for those in the house to eat a meal. His relatives went as far as to ask if he was out of his mind with all he was doing. His preaching, teaching and healing made people shake their heads – many with gratitude and awe and others with dismay. Who was this guy?

As he moved about the countryside sharing his message of love, forgiveness, care for the poor, turning the other cheek, he invited others to join him. We see him naming the twelve apostles and calling his disciples, both men and women, offering them an opportunity for a new way of thinking, a new way of being. His message was challenging, his charisma was powerful. So many followed him he had to hide out at times  for some peace and quiet.

The message Jesus conveyed over and over, in so many different stories was not about the accumulation of goods, or the glory of fame and power. His message was quite the opposite. He asked his followers to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, take care of those in prison and generally be people who cared for each other. His model for care was the care God gives. Care that is offered freely, no strings attached, given without conditions.

It is curious to read that this man who preached a message contrary to the norm was embraced by so many. He was advocating for the poor and downtrodden when most would welcome the abundance of food, property and overall wealth as something to aspire to. Why did they listen? Why did they follow him in throngs hoping to get close to him, to hear what he said with their own ears or feel his healing touch?

What was it then that drew people to Jesus and what is it today that draws us to him?

Peace,

Anne