What a historic week. Regardless of your political leaning or citizenship, the dramatic change that occurred with leadership of the United States was significant and monumental. It was also rich in metaphors for our Christian spiritual journey.
As the former president departed DC on Airforce One the loudspeakers blasted Sinatra’s “I did it my way.” Across town inaugural speeches called the nation to unite and end an “uncivil” war of hate and violence between neighbours and fight the foes of disease, unemployment, poverty and hopelessness instead. Amanda Gorman, the first youth poet laureate, referenced the minor prophet Micah in a few of her stanzas.
American history buffs will know George Washington frequently quoted Micah 4:4 and fans of the musical Hamilton will recognize it in the Song “One Last Time” as well. After Micah’s warning that rebellion against God would lead to defeat and oppression at the hands of outside empires, he offers a prophetic promise that once God is restored as their King, people will enjoy a life of security and success “under their own vine and tree.”
Micah 4 reveals God’s people can only flourish when their first allegiance is to the Most High God who teaches truth and judges justly. “The Hill We Climb” echoed another appeal by Micah to act justly, love mercy and walk humbly with God. ‘If we merge mercy with might and might with right, then love becomes our legacy and change our children’s birthright.’ Mercy without might is weak; might without mercy is abusive. According to Micah 6:8, we need both plus humility to walk in step with Jesus. Let this be our prayer and hope today, that Jesus’ love will be the source of justice, mercy and victory in our lives.
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