Obama has been highly criticized by many on the right, including many of the Christian community, for not completely aligning himself with Israel’s position and goals concerning the Palestinians and Israeli territory. However, I wonder if Jesus were alive today if we be more criticized by the Christian Community for his position on Israel.
The reality is that when Jesus came to earth, he made the sons of Abraham very angry. He basically told them that their position as Jews and sons of Abraham was irrelevant if they did not live a life filled with justice and love. He did not come preaching a pro-Israeli message, rather he came preaching a message of the Kingdom of God, a Kingdom of justice that extends beyond any border, and which does not put one group of people above another. A Kingdom where there is no longer any Jew or Gentile.
Jesus always tended to always stand up for the oppressed and powerless; he was critical of those in power who used their influence to oppress others. I understand there is much complexity and grey in the current conflict between the Israelis and Palestinians. Neither side is without significant grievances and blame. However, I don’t believe Jesus would simply be pro-Israeli in this situation, rather he would be pro-justice. It is sad that in the Christian community, especially in the U.S, it is become more important to be pro-Israeli than pro-justice. Many think they will be on the side of God if they are on the side of Israel, even if the Israeli actions are unjust. However, if they really want to be on God’s side, they should be on the side of the poor and oppressed the side of compassion, fairness, and justice.
The reality is that Obama’s latest comments and positions are still highly pro-Israel; the individuals that he is saying that he is “throwing Israel under the bus” are either simply paying politics or are so blinded by a pro-Israeli agenda that they can’t see the need of compromise and justice for the Palestinian people. As long as injustice is allowed to prosper, there will never be peace.
Essence Restored 