Old Testament Reading: Joel 2:23-32
For Sunday, October 27, 2013: Year C—Lectionary 30
For being such a small book Joel packs a punch in the Liturgical calendar. Not only do we hear Peter draw upon the minor prophet as he explains the events of Pentecost but also Joel is used every Ash Wednesday.
For a book that only contains three chapters I have actually heard from Joel more than most of the other minor prophets. This, I would guess, gives Joel the status of being the prophet who might be closest to moving up into the big leagues…
And…
…I love how this text begins! It fills me with optimism and joy! There is hope, even for Israel! The vision of the Lord that Joel shares is inclusive in every way. Not only is this prophetic word for God’s people but for the land and all the animals of the earth as well. Then, there is the greatest line ever, “I will pour out my spirit on all flesh...” Did you hear that, “ALL FLESH!” God’s redemption is for ALL!
But…
…why does there always have to be a big but? But...then we come to verse 30—32 and all of a sudden our vision of inclusive—hope filled—dreams are made dark with apocalyptic images of blood, fire, darkness and terrible days. I guess we can’t have our cake and eat it too! Someone is going to have to suffer and endure the days ahead. Top it all off only those who call on the name of the Lord shall be saved...”
All this brings to mind my younger days sitting in front of a fired up revivalist selling the fear of hell as the ticket price to heaven. “Turn or burn!” “If you died tonight would you go to heaven?” Whatever happened to “All” and the power that comes through God’s grace and redemptive action on our behalf?
The Hardest Question
I guess, I wonder at what point did this eschatological vision of hope and God’s gracious outpouring on all flesh turn toward doomsday darkness and the need of self justification?