New Leadership

New leaders in Greece & Italy may have the immediate effect of calming the markets. But their honeymoon period is likely to be short, as substantial changes will be needed rather than skin-deep changes. We know that a coat of paint doesn't address the structural problems of a tottering wall. What is not so clear is what structural issues must be addressed to solve the world's economic problems. And then there are other issues, like justice, fair trade, religious freedom, and environmental matters. Is there an answer to all this?
In Jesus' day, there were looming problems of all sorts, and some expected Jesus to solve them all.
The Zealots were those looking for a radical response to the Roman Empire. There were Jewish religious groups, all with a different take on their problems. Then ordinary people, exploited by crooked financial systems, facing an unequal struggle. How was Jesus to provide the answer to everyone's problems?
In word and action, Jesus procalimed the Kingdom of God, which is when we are under new leadership and with a new direction for our lives. Not a big programme, but people in community with one another, living out a different sort of life.
He spoke often of what this life would look like.  'So Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them. But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must be the slave of everyone else. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Mark 10.42-45)
Today, all of us have a chance to live out this sort of life - showing ourselves to be ransomed, healed, restored, forgiven. If we are like Jesus, that will show up. What next? Just watch what happens!
Best wishes,
Richard