Over the last few days there has been a minor skirmish about Maori spirituality. John Tertillian has named the current insistence that we obey tapu and noa as idolatry.
He has been heavily criticized, by those who say it is mere politeness, that the Maori own this land and we are but guests. This is wrong. Not only was soveignty acceded to the crown (article one of the treaty)… but by 1870 my ancestors had acquired most of the Taranaki — by means of force.
Psalm 96
1 O sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all the earth.
2 Sing to the LORD, bless his name; tell of his salvation from day to day.
3 Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous works among all the peoples.
4 For great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised; he is to be revered above all gods.
5 For all the gods of the peoples are idols, but the LORD made the heavens.
6 Honor and majesty are before him; strength and beauty are in his sanctuary.
7 Ascribe to the LORD, O families of the peoples, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength.
8 Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name; bring an offering, and come into his courts.
9 Worship the LORD in holy splendor;
tremble before him, all the earth.
via Daily Lectionary Readings — Devotions and Readings — Mission and Ministry — GAMC.
God and only God deserves worship. We should not submit to other demands.
No Comments