no right is absolute--"right" here meaning whatever man is owed from other men, whether it be material goods or actions /1

for, if someone breaks the rules of the society which pledges to preserve those rights, those rights are taken away from him--if he breaks the law, his property of money is seized as a fine

also, some things are not rights--no one deserves everything under the sun but God /2

rights must sometimes be denied--in the name of the higher good or in retribution

to be sure, rights can be taken away wrongly at times--but what does scripture claim here?

“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’... /3

...But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. If anyone wants to sue you and take away your tunic, let him have your cloak also. And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two... /4

...Give to him who asks you, and from him who wants to borrow from you do not turn away." (Matthew 5:38-42)

we have a right to property, happiness, physical and spiritual flourishing--other men ought to honor that

but when they don't, we are called to surrender rights... /5

...not fight for them or assert them

love lays down, gives up, and surrenders to those around them

it's not pleasant or fun, but its loving and that's what matters--love is at the heart of God's nature and His central command to humanity /6

so Christian, if your primary concern during this time of fear and danger is your rights, reconsider the words of God and deny yourself--give up how you ought to be treated, and treat others how they ought to be no matter what /7

you have a right to assemble--but it loves your neighbor to not assemble, for it preserves their life and health

who do we love more? ourselves or our neighbors?

and in deliberation, who OUGHT we to love? ourselves or our neighbors? /fin