Somewhere around 2016 the word “transactional” entered political discourse. It translates basically as “what’s in it for me.” This is, of course, clean contrary to the Gospel. Jesus envisions his followers not as transactional but as compassionate. Invite, Jesus says, those who will not be able to invite you back. “Blessed indeed will you be because of their inability to repay you.” We operate in that way in imitation of how God treats us, bestowing divine blessings freely and unearned. Look, St. Paul says, at the history of the Jewish people. Even though they messed up time and again and even though they are missing the presence of God in Jesus they are still the Chosen People. The gifts and the call of God are irrevocable. God does not get anything out of choosing the Jewish people but they are still is own special flock. Our lives as Christians should exhibit the same kind of compassion, kindness, generosity and forgiveness toward others that God has shown toward us — not to get anything out of it but because the others need it.
