Liberation theology...

I´ve come across an interesting thought line. I have been reading the Peru Reader which is an historical anthology of Peruvian writing. I came across as essay by Gustavo Gutierez Even if a bit radically Christian which I am usually a bit weary of it has a basic logic to it that I found both afronting and comforting.... thought you guys might like to chew on it for a bit also... Liberation theology:


The idea´s basic premise is that caring for the poor is part of the Christian duty. Sounds plainly familiar, but the "hum? moment" is in the why.

I was raised to believe in compassion and kindness, generosity and hospitality. These are fundamental Christian values right? Well, why?

Liberation Theology says that the poor are God´s chosen people. (Remember the beatitudes? for my none church friends check here: http://members.tripod.com/~robertwells/Beatitudes.html) Right. It goes on to say that those with more are recquired to serve those with less out of a love and fear of God and a desire to be with those that are the chosen. Though compassion is nice in people, this theology made it seem so much a duty or chore to be traded for salvation.

The us vs. them language was intense and I was so supprised to even feel a bit of a grudge toward the "meek and poor". It was startling how the theology seemed to promote generosity with a somewhat Socialistic harmony line but out of a feeling of Christian duty and desire. ie. the poor shall inheret the earth and heaven so go on and make yourself one of the poor. What happened to giving without expecting return. Agape. I guess it helps to give people a proverbial "carrot" when asking them to give away their earthly carrots. Interesting no?

Go look it up... it´s not long, but interesting:


Here´s some of the original essay:
http://www.liberationtheology.org/john_yu_document_collection.htm#gg

Here´s more info if any of you really feel like you have some time to kill :)
http://mb-soft.com/believe/txn/liberati.htm