The dilemma of the poor in Les Misérables The music of the stage show Les Misérables touches many emotions, from the tear-jerking “I Dreamed a Dream”, the haunting “Empty Chairs at Empty Tables”, of unreturned love “On My Own” to the final rousing anthem, “Do You Hear The People Sing?” Two themes dominate the storyline. Firstly, there is the theme of justice without mercy: heartless Javert’s relentlessly pursues Valjean in the name of legalistic justice, even after Valjean becomes a reformed character. Secondly, there is the dilemma that the poor and oppressed (or Les Misérables) of France face, as they suffer while the heartless rich indulge and maintain their lavish lifestyle while ignoring those mush less fortunate than themselves. Should the underclass too try to look after ‘number one’, like the corrupt innkeeper and his wife? Should they follow the path of rebellion, unmercifully turning the tables on the aristocracy in order to become rich themselves? Or should they follow Valjean’s example of grace and mercy now while seeking a better future in God’s kingdom? We face the similar dilemmas in various ways It may not seem immediately obvious, but we face similar dilemmas. Should we follow the path of doing what is wrong, in order to get what we want – do the ends justify the means? Or should we follow God and do what is right, depending on him in the present as we look forward to the fulfilment of promised blessing with him for eternity? Should we compromise our morals for short term gain, or keep integrity and look forward to future blessing as we struggle through current difficulties with God’s strength? Of course, at the same time, we can campaign for truth and justice, in a non-violent manner. (In extreme circumstances, though, it is necessary to overthrow a completely unjust regime, but most situations are much less clear-cut than this.) A Godly alternative to violence and force People often resort to bullying or violence at school, in the office or at home, in order to get their way. Employers and governments too have historically used force to obtain or maintain their position of power and control (such as Syria’s use of force over its citizens at present). Yet, the Bible teaches that meekness (or as it is often translated, gentleness) is an alternative to the use of force. The original word in Greek is used of wild animals that have been tamed, that are under control. They don’t lose their strength, but have it under control. Meekness is not the same as weakness, even though they may look similar at times. In the Bible, meekness is most often described in the context of enduring situations that cannot easily be changed or improved, in a patient, self-controlled manner, while looking forward to God’s blessing in the future. This is the context of Psalm 37, and where Jesus alludes to verse 11 in the beatitude: “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.” Matthew 5:5 Bullying, direct action that involves violence, violent demonstrations, and terrorism are therefore clearly all against God’s will. He is the one who will avenge in the long run, and we must respond peacefully in all but the worst situations. nevertheless, peaceful action can be very effective, bringing significant changes. The Bible calls for believers to campaign for justice, and to defend the powerless. But that doesn’t necessarily mean the use of force or violence to do so. It is worth remembering that Jesus taught the beatitudes in a context where others promoted force and armed insurrection against Roman occupation. A guaranteed inheritance, if we will only follow God’s way The famous atheist Frederick Nietzsche, who coined the phrase “God is dead,” once said, “Assert yourself. Care for nothing except yourself. The only vice is weakness and the only virtue is strength. Be strong. Be a superman. The world is yours if you work hard enough for it.” Instead of looking after ‘number one’ by force, Jesus commends meekness and trust in God. Nietzsche could only strive towards his goals, but in contrast God promises to deliver for those who trust in him and follow his way. Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:5 that the meek ‘will inherit’ it all. That is a wonderful promise. But first, we need to trust in Jesus, and have the Spirit of God in our lives We might therefore be tempted to try to follow God’s way of meekness, in order to deserve the promised blessing. However, that would be a mistake. This is because we are naturally not meek. We fail when we try to do what we ought to. Yet, as Paul teaches: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness (meekness) and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22–23, NIV84) In order to have the fruit of the Spirit, we need to have the Spirit of God. In order to have the Spirit of God, we need to have saving faith in Jesus Christ: “Because those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.” (Romans 8:14, NIV84) (If you would like to pray a prayer to trust in Jesus, you could use this one. )