Anti-Benjaminite

But the Benjaminites did not drive out the Jebusites who lived in Jerusalem; so the Jebusites have lived in Jerusalem among the Benjaminites to this day. Judges 1: 21 NRSV

From the first chapter of Judges, it is clear that the tribe of Benjamin is not the best. They have not cleared out the people in their lands which will make the susceptible to foreign gods. In fact, their behavior will eventually cause them to become completely wicked by the end of this book. They will end up fighting against all their Israelite kin and losing.

This is a very interesting story of a tribe that came from one of Israel's favorite sons and later will produce King David.

I would say that the book of Judges is clearly anti-Benjaminite.

This tribe is not the only tribe that has turned to foreign gods. The tribe of Benjamin is probably not the only tribe that has done evil things is the sight of God and neighbor. However, they do become easy targets. And they end up suffering and causing others to suffer even when their kin try to put things to right at the end of Judges.

This brings to mind our human inclination to point fingers and find someone to blame. How much easier it is to put the responsibility for our problems on someone else! Yet, during Lent we reminded to stop the pointing unless it is at ourselves. We are to look at our own hearts, our own actions, and our own sins. Lent is a time to think in terms of anti-me.

God, we spend this season of the church year taking a close look at ourselves. But you don't leave us there, wallowing in our blame and shame. You also want us to accept the forgiveness you have for each and every one of us. Open us to your mercy. Thank you, Lord! In Jesus' precious name we pray. Amen.

Copyright 2010 Amelia G. Sims