Songs and a Timely Image

Great God of all,

We turn to you and ask you for mercy, grace and peace. If we can, we also ask you to flex your muscles against all that is corrupt and wrong with our society and world. We pray for an end to the pandemic. Guide us to participate and engage more fully in your good work. In your unequaled Name, we pray. Amen.

Isaiah 42:10-18- New Revised Standard Version
10 Sing to the Lord a new song,
his praise from the end of the earth!
Let the sea roar and all that fills it,
the coastlands and their inhabitants.
11 Let the desert and its towns lift up their voice,
the villages that Kedar inhabits;
let the inhabitants of Sela sing for joy,
let them shout from the tops of the mountains.
12 Let them give glory to the Lord,
and declare his praise in the coastlands.
13 The Lord goes forth like a soldier,
like a warrior he stirs up his fury;
he cries out, he shouts aloud,
he shows himself mighty against his foes.

14 For a long time I have held my peace,
I have kept still and restrained myself;
now I will cry out like a woman in labor,
I will gasp and pant.
15 I will lay waste mountains and hills,
and dry up all their herbage;
I will turn the rivers into islands,
and dry up the pools.
16 I will lead the blind
by a road they do not know,
by paths they have not known
I will guide them.
I will turn the darkness before them into light,
the rough places into level ground.
These are the things I will do,
and I will not forsake them.
17 They shall be turned back and utterly put to shame—
those who trust in carved images,
who say to cast images,
“You are our gods.”

18 Listen, you that are deaf;
and you that are blind, look up and see!

Reflection

     I was caught by the call to sing and create a new song for God. Writing new songs is hard, time consuming and energy sapping. That is, unless, we hear this as more of a call to be current and free with what God is doing in the world. I have to admit that I only really write new songs for my dogs..."puppers and duppers are what you are..." No, they aren't very high quality, but they work well for feeding time or just being goofy and free. I think this is part of what Isaiah captures here is that spontaneous and creatively loving part of our heart that turns away from predictability, habits and just relishes in God's presence. This is more powerful than we give it credit. It seems, dear church, like we need more workshops on creative song-writing to God!

     I was also caught by the descriptions of the Warrior God who was done waiting. Wow and ouch. I
am sure that this is where a vivid understanding of the "fear of the Lord" comes from. I suppose that this reading was selected more for the image of when God stops waiting, then where my mind went. I know it is almost Christmas, but I thought of the crucifixion of the Warrior God (the book and the reality). This is a great insight into the distinct difference of tone and message from Old Testament to New Testament. God chose to end the warring with our rebellion and disobedience so that we all might be saved. So, the battle for eternal peace is over, but we are all called into the battle work of spreading love and hope! This is noticeably non-violent, all-negativities-absorbing and truth-telling.

Are you done waiting to make hope happen and love spread around you?

Word Pictures

Great God, speak to us through your Sacred Pages. Let us take in the richness of your being in our lives. While our spirit is aware of your presence, make us more aware of your work around us and enable us to be a frutiful and effective conduit of your Way. In Christ, we pray. Amen.

Isaiah 12:2-6
Surely God is my salvation;
I will trust, and will not be afraid,
for the Lord God is my strength and my might;
he has become my salvation.
With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation. 

 And you will say in that day:
Give thanks to the Lord,
call on his name;
make known his deeds among the nations;
proclaim that his name is exalted.
Sing praises to the Lord, for he has done gloriously;
let this be known in all the earth.
Shout aloud and sing for joy, O royal Zion,
for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel.

     It is a well known saying that a picture is worth a thousand words. A word picture in Scripture is worth an unknown number of words. It is perhaps a great deal more, particularly given the number of books written on various passages. Sometimes, though, it is a lot less because the mind and hands are not able to easily write what the spirit quickly perceives. 

     The skeptic might hear a passage like "draw water from the well of salvation..." and ask how are you drawing the water, and what is the water--a portion of salvation? This poetic prophecy defies straightforward logic. Yet, in faith, it makes perfect sense to our heart, soul, spirit, inner being and well drawer.

     We also can connect through time with those in the majority of Isaiah's original audience that would have had many reasons for sensing a tremendous hope in this whole text. We know what it feels like when everything seems dry, cracked and broken without much life. This word picture pulls us up out of our dry place and tells our heart to turn to praise and thanksgiving. God draws us into the recognition of a whole rich reality beyond our current condition. The Creator splashes us with a great and long holy recall of promises kept and many more still waiting to erupt against a time of great need.  Lift up your head! Lift up your voice! Praise God!

"Sir, what are your orders?"

With an opening note of gratitude and appreciation to all of our veterans, we thank you for your service!

     After looking at the texts for today, and considering some of the themes, I considered it a bit comical that these verses are not favorites transferred onto signs and media posts. Read on and see what I mean.

1 Timothy 6:11-21 (New English Translation)
But you, as a person dedicated to God, keep away from all that. Instead pursue righteousness, godliness, faithfulness, love, endurance, and gentleness. Compete well for the faith and lay hold of that eternal life you were called for and made your good confession for in the presence of many witnesses. I charge you before God who gives life to all things and Christ Jesus who made his good confession before Pontius Pilate, to obey this command without fault or failure until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ —whose appearing the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords, will reveal at the right time. He alone possesses immortality and lives in unapproachable light, whom no human has ever seen or is able to see. To him be honor and eternal power! Amen.

Command those who are rich in this world’s goods not to be haughty or to set their hope on riches, which are uncertain, but on God who richly provides us with all things for our enjoyment. Tell them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, to be generous givers, sharing with others. In this way they will save up a treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the future and so lay hold of what is truly life.

O Timothy, protect what has been entrusted to you. Avoid the profane chatter and absurdities of so-called “knowledge.” By professing it, some have strayed from the faith. Grace be with you all.

Reflection

     The second paragraph is ripe for the picking, isn't it?! Even if you use a softer word than command, it is still not likely to be well received. It is a well known fact that the rich prefer to stay rich and will use all their power to keep getting richer. It is also true that the wealthy and powerful don't like to be told what to do anymore than the rest of us. Generosity is nearly impossible if you are growing more and more proud and fond of what you have and all that you have accomplished. We also need to remember that we are rich. We possess much more than most of the world. This isn't just about "them."

     Of course, "command" also brings a great deal of good and bad with it. Good for those who chose to serve and fill a position or rank for the keeping of order. Bad with those who abuse their power and issue orders that only hurt and hinder, as well as those who have no right to wield inhumane control over another that they have enslaved. The good followers (soldiers, servants, citizens, etc.) illustrate the meaning of hard-working trust and respect. Sometimes, even well meaning leaders can issue a command that doesn't make sense. Do you know of a veteran that has shared a funny story about obeying orders even when they knew it would end comically? 

     Our veterans could teach us a great deal about obeying and following. Many of Jesus' teachings are met with a mild smile and the thought that it is inspirational, but little in the actual practice. We could do a better job following the order to be generous in giving.

Prayer

We praise you, O God, for watching over us all. Guide us to follow you more closely and to learn more practically what it means to share and give. Enlighten us in our service to your Way of love. Amen. 

Impressive

Focus Verse
Matthew 20:16 (NRSV)
So the last will be first, and the first will be last.

     Maybe it was the Revelation text for this coming All Saints Sunday that connected me to this verse, but I also remembered a time many years ago that I preached a message on this. I am not sure that it was my absolute best in terms of reception, but as a preacher and writer it was memorable for me. It still feels like a bit of a technical masterpiece. I preached it backwards! Of course, the words and sentences were in their understandable order, but the thoughts and paragraphs were essentially in reverse. I wrote it out in regular order and then rewrote it in reverse. Then I added in a few markers and clues for the hearers to get the point and also be able to piece the message back together in their mind. I had a few repeated phrases to be sure that if they got a little lost, the point was still clear--God operates under God's own rules and the Gospel means a reversal of many things that the world holds dear. Of course, the main point of the entire parable that precedes this verse is that God choses to be generous and give abundantly. Sometimes, what God gives will seem "unfair." 

Here is the whole parable:

“For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard. After agreeing with the laborers for the usual daily wage, he sent them into his vineyard.  When he went out about nine o’clock, he saw others standing idle in the marketplace; and he said to them, ‘You also go into the vineyard, and I will pay you whatever is right.’ So they went. When he went out again about noon and about three o’clock, he did the same. And about five o’clock he went out and found others standing around; and he said to them, ‘Why are you standing here idle all day?’ They said to him, ‘Because no one has hired us.’ He said to them, ‘You also go into the vineyard.’ When evening came, the owner of the vineyard said to his manager, ‘Call the laborers and give them their pay, beginning with the last and then going to the first.’ When those hired about five o’clock came, each of them received the usual daily wage.  Now when the first came, they thought they would receive more; but each of them also received the usual daily wage.  And when they received it, they grumbled against the landowner, saying, ‘These last worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the day and the scorching heat.’ But he replied to one of them, ‘Friend, I am doing you no wrong; did you not agree with me for the usual daily wage? Take what belongs to you and go; I choose to give to this last the same as I give to you. Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me? Or are you envious because I am generous?’ So the last will be first, and the first will be last.”

     After I stopped patting myself on the back and remembering all the remarks about it being a good and inspirational sermon, somewhere around Tuesday I realized that I had missed the point. I liked to hear that it was impressive, of course, but the Spirit asked me if my attitude was a part of the Gospel reversal. Pride had ensnared me. It is so easy to get caught up in our accomplishments, no matter how well meaning or positive in sense. This parable is not about hard work, but about the intersection of mercy and generosity in God's activity. To truly understand and proclaim Jesus, we need to let go of our urge to do better and measure ethical behavior only through God's lens of mercy. This in turn yields justice and peace.

Museum of Tomorrow Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Architect: Santiago Calatrava

     I saw a press release that Lego is releasing one of its largest sets of all time--the Titanic. It is $630 (and it is already temporarily out of stock at that price!) and consists of 9090 pieces. Yes, it would be a brag worthy, but not generous or merciful. Impressive buildings are fun to look at, but don't usher in the reign of the Way of Christ.

Dear Lord,

Help us to turn away from greed and wealth. Teach us your way of abundant and sharing love. Mold our hearts into multiple exchanges of mercy. You, O God, are steadfast and ever-living, showing love beyond our merit and our generations. We thank and praise you for choosing as you see fit. We all are dependent upon your grace. In the Name of Christ Jesus, we pray. Amen.

     

Look Ma, No Hands!

Hebrews 9:1-12
     Now even the first covenant had regulations for worship and an earthly sanctuary. For a tent was constructed, the first one, in which were the lampstand, the table, and the bread of the Presence; this is called the Holy Place. Behind the second curtain was a tent called the Holy of Holies. In it stood the golden altar of incense and the ark of the covenant overlaid on all sides with gold, in which there were a golden urn holding the manna, and Aaron’s rod that budded, and the tablets of the covenant; above it were the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy-seat. Of these things we cannot speak now in detail.

     Such preparations having been made, the priests go continually into the first tent to carry out their ritual duties; but only the high priest goes into the second, and he but once a year, and not without taking the blood that he offers for himself and for the sins committed unintentionally by the people. By this the Holy Spirit indicates that the way into the sanctuary has not yet been disclosed as long as the first tent is still standing. This is a symbol of the present time, during which gifts and sacrifices are offered that cannot perfect the conscience of the worshipper, but deal only with food and drink and various baptisms, regulations for the body imposed until the time comes to set things right.

     But when Christ came as a high priest of the good things that have come, then through the greater and perfect tent (not made with hands, that is, not of this creation), he entered once for all into the Holy Place, not with the blood of goats and calves, but with his own blood, thus obtaining eternal redemption.

Reflections:

     I have continued to enjoy the surprising relevance of a daily lectionary (already chosen Bible text) for whatever is going on in my life. Earlier this week the Women's Bible study had some questions for me about the temple Ezekiel was envisioning and its connection the future temple visions of other parts of the Bible, namely the Revelation to John. I pointed to the reality of the newest temple being Jesus' body. This text seemed to say, yes, and don't forget about this angle!

     So, being "not made with hands" struck me as a powerful addition to the new covenant reality of God in Jesus. So very much in this modern world is human made. We might have thought of plants and animals, but it also specifies "not of this creation." This is not a proud moment of riding a bicycle without hands ("Look Ma, no hands!") or anything like that. This is totally with human effort. Jesus abides with us and is the

perfect celebrant of all that might come before God's mercy seat. We don't make a building, temple, or tent for Jesus. We don't contribute anything for Jesus to be able, willing, and ready to issue a return to oneness with God.

Prayer

Dear Jesus,

I thank you for going before me and being ready for me even when I am not. Thank you for waiting while I was protesting or confused. You are always before me and already loving me and caring for all of us. I lift up into your care all those who are in need... I pray also for all the things that I have messed up with my human hands... I am also thinking of the big mess of human-caused climate change. Lord, help us. Please lead and be with those who govern and rule gathering in the summits so that all your people will come together to slow our consumptive pollution and give love and care back to your beautiful Creation. In the Name of the great High Priest of all, I pray. Amen.

More Cowbell and Emojis!!

     It's hard as a modern to read the Bible sometimes. I became fully aware of this issue yesterday as I was preparing to write this devotional. I typed in a search for texts for the day and came across an online set: Jeremiah 38:1-13; 1 Corinthians 14:26-40; and Matthew 10:34-42. Maybe I should have just closed the browser window! Instead, I feel like I fell into a rabbit hole of Bible studying. [Since I know that some of you don't have time for this, I will put extended notes and links below the prayer.]

     I was particularly struck by the difference between the Gospel and the Pauline reading. I was also confronted by one of "those" texts that annoys and causes divisions. This portion of Paul's letter seems out of place with his typical sense of "world-turned-upside-down" by the reality of the Jesus (i.e. Gal. 3:28 - There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and female; for all of you are one in Christ Jesus.) After my study, though, I walked away feeling like Paul

needed to use more emojis to get his emotions across clearly. I also chuckled and thought it would be nice if any sarcastic statements had cowbells ringing in the background.

Here are the texts:

1 Corinthians 14:26-40

What should be done then, my friends? When you come together, each one has a hymn, a lesson, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Let all things be done for building up. If anyone speaks in a tongue, let there be only two or at most three, and each in turn; and let one interpret. But if there is no one to interpret, let them be silent in church and speak to themselves and to God. Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others weigh what is said. If a revelation is made to someone else sitting nearby, let the first person be silent. For you can all prophesy one by one, so that all may learn and all be encouraged. And the spirits of prophets are subject to the prophets, for God is a God not of disorder but of peace. (As in all the churches of the saints, women should be silent in the churches. For they are not permitted to speak, but should be subordinate, as the law also says. If there is anything they desire to know, let them ask their husbands at home. For it is shameful for a woman to speak in church. Or did the word of God originate with you? Or are you the only ones it has reached?) Anyone who claims to be a prophet, or to have spiritual powers, must acknowledge that what I am writing to you is a command of the Lord.

Matthew 10:34-42

"Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth; I have not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I have come to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law; and one's foes will be members of one's own household. Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; and whoever does not take up the cross and follow me is not worthy of me. Those who find their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake will find it. "Whoever welcomes you welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. Whoever welcomes a prophet in the name of a prophet will receive a prophet's reward; and whoever welcomes a righteous person in the name of a righteous person will receive the reward of the righteous; and whoever gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones in the name of a disciple-- truly I tell you, none of these will lose their reward."

Reflection:

     Jesus says that he has not come to bring peace. I am pretty sure that one of the advent materials I just looked at described you, Jesus, as the absolute Prince of Peace! Yet, this also makes sense because we see what happens in the world when the truth is spoken. Those who love themselves more than God or others use all of their wealth to squelch, cover up or paint with lies labelled as an "alternate truth." So, self is lifted up over the Creator and families can become conflicted or divided.

     Some conflicts can come from using the Bible as a paddle or a whip to beat others into submission. "The Bible says..." Both of these texts, sadly, have been taken out of context to push and punish others. Among others, the 1 Corinthians text has been used to deny women of their voice. Too many have twisted the English translations of what Paul says to their own gain. Yet, at first glance this reading seems pretty clear. A few things are always important to remember. Punctuation, paragraph breaks and verse numberings are all not original. There are also small instances where scribes and editors made small editions or changes to the text. It felt to me like this section was possibly not authentic. So, I dropped into the text research and found that this section is not an addition, but as we read it, is a mistranslation. Paul is writing about a conflict in the Corinth congregation around a disorderly worship that was full of all kinds of problems that could leave an outsider confused or downright put off. Paul

was writing to them and they knew what issue he was specifically pointing to. He was likely quoting their leadership (again, remember, the punctuation marks were not available in Bible Greek), "As in all the churches of the saints..." Cowbells should be sounding here. Worship had a small amount of solidarity, but certainly not universality. The quote of the upset faction likely went to verse 36 where the cowbells turn off and Paul first gives a refutation response, "Or did the word of God originate with you men?" 😡 "Or are you men the only ones it has reached?" {Big angry cowbell of sarcasm.}🔔 Yep, that would help to get the point across. It is pretty frustrating that a situation Paul was teaching against has been perceived as the opposite. Women were well known to prophecy and to teach and preach, until the church tried to become more socially acceptable to the patriarchal world. The teachings of radical Jesus, we know, are not acceptable to all. They are, however, open to all and for all.

God of all peoples, we find it all to easy to bicker and fight, push and punish. Guide us to see your Way of Love. Enable us to see the missteps and mistakes that we make in understanding your Word. Let the love of Jesus reign in our hearts so that we appreciate the differences and diversity of your awesome Creation. Build us up to treat one another with the deepest respect. In your Name we pray. Amen.

Notes:

A number of links from this ELCA page: https://www.elca.org/Our-Work/Publicly-Engaged-Church/Justice-for-Women/Leadership

Here is a deep dive into the details of the 1 Corinthians 14:33-38 translation issues into English:

https://www.cbeinternational.org/resource/article/priscilla-papers-academic-journal/1-corinthians-1433b-38-pauline-quotation

It really isn't that hard!

     For those of you that have heard me preach, I am warning you ahead of time, you might know that
this is a bit of a frustration for me. But, seriously, it isn't that hard. I just don't understand. Why do we keep doing it. Next is the reading for today. I am going to put the rest of my rant, I mean response, below it.

Matthew 9:1-8 -New English Translation

After getting into a boat he crossed to the other side and came to his own town.  Just then some people brought to him a paralytic lying on a stretcher. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Have courage, son! Your sins are forgiven.”  Then some of the experts in the law said to themselves, “This man is blaspheming!”  When Jesus perceived their thoughts he said, “Why do you respond with evil in your hearts?  Which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven’ or to say, ‘Stand up and walk’?  But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—then he said to the paralytic—“Stand up, take your stretcher, and go home.”  So he stood up and went home.  When the crowd saw this, they were afraid and honored God who had given such authority to men.

     An advertisement for the New English Translation describes itself as the newest English translation of the Bible. It is now in its second revision and is dated 2003 (which by internet standards is not new, but by Bible standards is quite new). The Bible.org translation team does describe itself as "Evangelical." That is probably part of the problem. Their gender bias is showing. It is, however, supposed to be a different translation based upon the best research directly from the Greek and Hebrew. This isn't the only Bible translation that gets its wrong. As far as I can tell, they all do! It really isn't that hard! Even the Common English Bible (dated newer at 2011), which tries to address this issue, somehow swings and misses with "The Human One." This misses the relationship aspect ("Son") and that Jesus was a specific person with a gender. 

     Yes, Jesus gives himself an unusual title, but it is made stranger and more opaque by a poor English translation. He describes himself with words that connect with Daniel and Ezekiel--"The Son of Humanity." It should not read "The Son of Man" in any current, new or modern Bible. The word in Greek means a human with no gender specificity. Yes, I know there was some goofy English convention to use generic statements about humans by saying any general male term. The problem is that it leaves a broad set of people out of a title that is supposed to be a universal title! This is the title that Jesus uses for self description. It matters. It also means that we miss our part because the section ends with the same bad translation pointing to authority with a certain subset. The universal title also means that ALL of us are responsible for bearing the healing and helping Way of Christ.

     Well, if you ever feel like people don't get you or can't seem to hear the way you prefer to be addressed, Jesus is with you there too! If you are frustrated by others missing the point of what you are doing, Jesus certainly can relate with you. If you feel like others aren't working as hard as you,... Yes, you got it. Jesus is there with you. 

Jesus, we pray that you teach us to listen. We are not very good at it most of the time. Guide us to truly understand your titles, mission, and purpose. Help us also to see how you accompany us in our daily lives. We adore you and praise you for your presence and peace. In your Name, we pray. Amen.

     
 

Wait, Do I know you?

Matthew 7:22-29
On that day, many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, didn’t we prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many powerful deeds in your name?’ Then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you. Go away from me, you lawbreakers!’

“Everyone who hears these words of mine and does them is like a wise man who built his house on rock. The rain fell, the flood came, and the winds beat against that house, but it did not collapse because its foundation had been laid on rock. Everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain fell, the flood came, and the winds beat against that house, and it collapsed—it was utterly destroyed!”

When Jesus finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed by his teaching, because he taught them like one who had authority, not like their experts in the law.

     You don't want Jesus to have a Dory moment with you! In case you don't know her, Dory is this comical blue fish is from the "Finding Nemo" Movie who has a short term memory problem. I giggle just thinking about how she could forget someone within a moment, right after a conversation. Yet, I can also relate to all the typical losses of memory that seem foolish. I am also mindful of all those that we know and love that struggle with memory loss due to aging of the brain.

     "Wait, do I know you?" can be a funny jab to give to a friend or family member, but terribly painful if they truly are separating from you permanently. I can't imagine the pain of hearing Jesus or anyone I know and love say those words to me. Is there someone that you have pushed out of your life? Reach out to them today. Is there a branch of the family that is torn--help them to mend and forgive. Remember in your prayers those whose home life and relationships have been fraught with distrust and conflict.

Dear Jesus, give us to live lives that keep a legacy of faith and carry out your hope, peace, and love. Challenge us to practice your forgiveness. Enliven us with your grace. In your name, we pray. Amen.

     

Problems, Big Problems, Suffering

     We have all had those moments of intense focus on the absolute shambles of our own life situation, only to realize that the person we are trying to describe it all to doesn't seem to be impressed with the same level of severity. Many of us have gotten to the point where we figure it is better to not complain. Everyone has problems. Everyone is broken. Besides, aren't most of what we fuss about "First World Problems"? Even the poorest of us is wealthier than many parts of the world.

     Our text for today is:

Romans 5: 1-5 Common English Bible translation

Therefore, since we have been made righteous through his faithfulness, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. We have access by faith into this grace in which we stand through him, and we boast in the hope of God’s glory. But not only that! We even take pride in our problems, because we know that trouble produces endurance, endurance produces character, and character produces hope. This hope doesn’t put us to shame, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.

     Taking pride in our problems might not be the conventional angle, but it can be a significant part of the Way of following Jesus. We can learn patience and the power of perseverance. We know that Jesus has overcome. It is his faith that goes before us. We don't have to be perfect. The power in weakness is through trusting in the presence of the great Holy Advocate with us and guide us through any and all problems.

     Even more, this stance means that we are more open to God's work through and with others. We get through problems, big problems, and downright suffering together. None of us have to go at it alone. We don't measure and compare our problems, but are honest with each other and share them so that we can fit them together and help one another in this great journey of sharing God's love.

Almighty God, we thank you that you love us through our problems. Without you we would be stuck or sunk. You are our living hope, our life, and our true joy. No matter what comes our way, you will always be with us. All praise to you, Everlasting One of All. Amen.

Upside-Down Double Set

 Holy Cross Day - September 14, 2021

1 Corinthians 1:18-31

¹⁸For the message about the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. ¹⁹For it is written, “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the discernment of the discerning I will thwart.” ²⁰Where is the one who is wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? ²¹For since, in the wisdom of God, the world did not know God through wisdom, God decided, through the foolishness of our proclamation, to save those who believe. ²²For Jews demand signs and Greeks desire wisdom, ²³but we proclaim Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, ²⁴but to those who are the called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. ²⁵For God’s foolishness is wiser than human wisdom, and God’s weakness is stronger than human strength. ²⁶Consider your own call, brothers and sisters: not many of you were wise by human standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth. ²⁷But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; ²⁸God chose what is low and despised in the world, things that are not, to reduce to nothing things that are, ²⁹so that no one might boast in the presence of God. ³⁰He is the source of your life in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification and redemption, ³¹in order that, as it is written, “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.”

On this Holy Cross Day, what is the message of the Cross? To further our understanding of what we proclaim, I offer for you two upside-down top ten lists. They are presented in reverse order because the Cross turns the order of perceived power and meaning on its head. Two sets because the Cross holds both beauty and ugliness.

{Many facts and details below are from Crucifixion by Martin Hengel (1977). Fortress Press}

UGLINESS:

10. Fairly minor in the list of injuries was undoubtedly a line of splinters and abrasions from the rough hewn wood up and down Jesus' backside.

9. Jesus was crucified in the nude. This was a standard practice of utter embarrassment. (I am not saying that the naked human body is ugly, but that the forced practice of naked torture is.)

8. The Romans devised the Cross as a fairly quick and inexpensive way to doll out punishment to anyone resisting the empire. The technique was recorded to be used on at least a thousand dissidents at a time.

7. The crosses and their victims would typically be mounted at a very public place like along the main roadway in an out of a town, a high place, and also near the trash heap. Warning, deterrent, and easy disposal could all be rolled into one site. Evil can be quite efficient by design.

6. Typically the bodies would remain on the cross for days and be scavenged by birds and animals. 

5. There are multiple ways to die in a crucifixion. The description of Jesus' death in the Gospels points to shock or cardiac arrest (rather than the targeted and slower asphyxiation).

4. While crucifixions were somewhat standardized, they were also thrown together by whatever wood was handy and varied widely in actual implementation. So, the shape of the actual cross of Jesus could easily have been anywhere in-between a "T" or a "W" shaped tree. It was not a neat and clean design.

3. The cross was a slave's punishment. There are multiple historical references and Philippians 2:6-11 which point to this reality. For a much broader read on this connection, check out The Cross and the Lynching Tree by James H. Cone. This also highlights that the ugliness of racism is truly a Gospel issue, which Jesus is clearly aligned into (as a poor non-white).

2. Flogging, and/or various forms of torture typically preceded the cross to be sure that it didn't drag on too long.

1. The nails of crucifixion target the nerve pathways to the hands and feet, for the purpose of intensifying the overwhelming pain.

BEAUTY:

10. Jesus was spared the birds and animals as his body was moved to a tomb. The empty cross is thus also a symbol of the love of community and the care of friends.

9.  Eventually, the Romans started using other words for crucifixions because of the growing meaning and notoriety of the word "Cross" as connecting to Jesus of Nazareth. Evil does not like to pay attention to its own failures.

8. The general shape of the cross can be seen as the love of God coming down to be among us and spreading us with that love out into the community.

7. The earliest message of Christianity is that the cross means the solidarity of God with the  unspeakable suffering of those who are tortured and executed by human cruelty. The newness of these words of love has not even begun to fade.

6. That God accepted death in the form of a crucified laborer from the country in order to break the very power of death and thereby bring salvation to all humanity is folly and madness to the typical constructs of empire, but is actually the last laugh. It is the truest and deepest wisdom and knowledge of God and God's jealous love for God's people.

5. The scandal of Jesus dying the death of a criminal, a slave, or a revolutionary pushes us to see the ethic of God's work beyond what we expect or place in neat boxes. God's love and work is wild and cannot be contained!

4. In a world of pushing and shoving, God does not push back but absorbs the harshest blow and shows another Way.

3. That at least one form of harsh torture and death has been removed from the worlds repertoire, lest it give any honor to the One who beat it, is encouraging. That Christians and others advocate for more humane structures or no death penalties is even more hopeful.

2. Jesus showed the scars from the Cross to the confused disciples as proof that the Resurrection had triumphed, so all the ugly items listed above and all the ugly things of this mortal life are transformed by the power of God into a beauty we can barely imagine. 

1. There is no such thing as a dead God, but there is a God that deadened death into a stingless pain, where hope lives eternally and love always conquers in favor of the beloved.

Crucified God, we honor you and your unfathomable love for us. You took the blows and torture that you did not deserve. You are pure love, and yet you were shown hate. In response, you show forgiveness, love, and peace. Teach us to turn away from vengeance and to work your way of justice for all those that might be punished sorely. Build up the work of those who protect and advocate for the innocent. Enliven your people to see your infinite beauty and goodness. To you, be all the glory, forever and ever. Amen.

Was That an Insult or a Compliment?

Matthew 17:14-21 (NET)

When they came to the crowd, a man came to him, knelt before him, and said, “Lord, have mercy on my son, because he has seizures and suffers terribly, for he often falls into the fire and into the water. I brought him to your disciples, but they were not able to heal him.” Jesus answered, “You unbelieving and perverse generation! How much longer must I be with you? How much longer must I endure you? Bring him here to me.” Then Jesus rebuked the demon and it came out of him, and the boy was healed from that moment. Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, “Why couldn’t we cast it out?” He told them, “It was because of your little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; nothing will be impossible for you.”

     Today's reading might make you feel like you have been hanging around with that friend, coworker, or family member. You know, the one that seems to give mostly backhanded compliments. Their snarky attitude and cynicism leaves you feeling like you come up short. ("You should probably also read the story of Zacchaeus, it is inspiring for people like you.") 

     Jesus seems a bit grumpy in this reading. In the course of him saying that he will help, he highlights that the disciples have faith that could be labeled "too small." Yet, Jesus seems to smile and give one of them a pat on the shoulder saying that you all shouldn't worry. You only have to have faith that is as big as a mustard seed to move molehills. Oh wait, that is all you can move now, but if you had more faith, you could move more. It isn't just them. They can take comfort in the fact that the entire generation has a teeny tiny little bit of faith (and is tiresome, and perverse...).

     This might not be the kind of passage we want to read today. We could easily find ourselves searching for another passage from Jesus when he is in a better mood. We need encouragement and edification, not criticism.

     I do wonder, though, if we miss the point in our perception that Jesus was speaking in a certain way, with a certain tone and inflection. If we imagine him rolling his eyes, I think we miss the content of what he is saying. Jesus means for us to grasp the significance of faith, but our self-doubt means that we hear the whole exchange as though we are not enough, and that we don't have enough faith yet. What if he is reacting because an understanding of faith is so critical to God's purpose and our life (and his tone is more like a teacher wanting to get a core point across)? A less defensive reading would guide us to understand that faith is actually not measured in volume. We do have to have a belief that goes beyond a small mental yes into the tiny mustard seed territory of trusting God to be able to handle the large things. Large problems and issues do not require that our faith be larger, but that our trust in God is hard and reliable like a prolific plant that spreads and grows. Our faith needs to depend upon God's work and presence.

Almighty One, guide us to a deeper trust in you and all your ways. Empower us to see your goodness and move us out of questioning and away from fear into your embrace. We lift our worries and struggles and concerns with those that we love into your care... In deep gratitude for the lightness of your Way, we lift our prayers to you. Amen.

My titles weren't working

1 Peter 2:19-25

For this is a gracious thing, when, mindful of God, one endures sorrows while suffering unjustly. For what credit is it if, when you sin and are beaten for it, you endure? But if when you do good and suffer for it you endure, this is a gracious thing in the sight of God. For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps. He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly. He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed. For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.

 

   I started off thinking that there wasn't really much to add to this text. It provides a number of quotable and memorable insights for struggles and encourages endurance. The important dimension of submission is a consistent theme throughout the entire First Letter of Peter. He wants the young church to understand the power and significance of not being so blatantly scrappy and rebellious. The nature of Christ is to absorb wrong and show a new Way that is peaceful, loving and kind.

     Yet, my titles weren't working and my initial thoughts seemed too cute. Something was missing. I pulled up another
translation and praise God I saw the context, the whole second chapter (which is always important in Bible Study because the chapter and verse numbers were not added the 13th and 16th century!). My eyes did not have to look far, though. The previous verse reads, "Slaves, be subject to your masters with all reverence, not only to those who are good and gentle, but also to those who are perverse." This verse has been weaponized and distorted by those who are unjust. This verse was not meant to be read by the unjust, nor was it meant to justify harsh and violent behavior with a corrective teaching for the slave to stay in there place. Injustice does not require silence. Peter's words have been misread and misunderstood to mean something like, "The good people of Christ just keep on taking beatings. Stay down and take it like a good Christian."

     While it is true the we be humble and slow to speak, we also participate in the daily doings of Christ. It is by creating a community of fully open and just behavior that we show others how they are to live. Peter knows that evil wants to drag us into the fight, but God fights for us. We show the world our patience and resolve, but our weakness should not be taken advantage of used to beat any one of us down further. Our Great Shepherd is not on the side of the wolf or the lion. Predators and violent abusers are not excused. Injustice is losing and failing. We show ourselves to be on the winning side of love and justice. We show care and concern for all.

Great God of love and justice,
teach us your Way. Empower us to truly display your likeness in action. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

More Harsh Words

"You can't do it!"

     I would expect to hear such words from a heckler in a crowd, but what about a prophet, a p
astor, or Jesus' own mouth. You might be taken aback, surprised or even offended. In the verses following our Old Testament Reading from Sunday, the Prophet Joshua said these very words to the people after they proclaimed that they would choose God and follow him (Joshua 24:19). He was cautioning the people to say their proclamation carefully and acknowledging that they would likely fail, with the risk of again using God's mercy. The Hebrew Bible is indeed full of failures. Life's greatest teacher is on full display through all the key story arcs. Honestly, the biggest inspiration of the Bible is that God keeps on abiding with us.

     Still, we might expect a prophet to be cautionary and negative, but we don't expect our hopeful and life-giving Savior to say such things. Take heart, though, these words are not a direct discouragement. They speak the truth. Jesus is clarifying order and ability. We are not able to choose Jesus. We are not capable of making the choice to be a follower of Jesus. We can only go along with God's choice of us. Our support and submission to that path is what the Lord requires of us.

Today's reading: John 15:16-25 ESV

You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you. These things I command you, so that you will love one another.

“If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. Remember the word that I said to you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will also keep yours. But all these things they will do to you on account of my name, because they do not know him who sent me. If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not have been guilty of sin, but now they have no excuse for their sin. Whoever hates me hates my Father also. If I had not done among them the works that no one else did, they would not be guilty of sin, but now they have seen and hated both me and my Father. But the word that is written in their Law must be fulfilled: ‘They hated me without a cause.’

     Yes, we see in the wisdom of Jesus' words that those who oppose God spread hatred towards anything that is good and of God. No, we can't choose God. We can't choose to be perfect. We are not able to always make good choices and do what is right. God is able and God chooses us. Let the goodness of God shine through us by letting God's choices happen and flow. The Holy Spirit turns us from negative options, paths and possibilities. This is how we seek the Reign of God in the here and now!

Great God of all peoples,

We come before you today as a grateful people. We praise your greatness and lift high the honor of your Name. You have set us free to worship you. Your presence with us, O God, is undeserved yet completely welcome and needed! Let our hearts rest in you this day. Soothe us with all that you are for us in our lives. Guide us to live out your choosing, that we would do your work and your will in our area. Bless us to keep strong when hatred seems strong. Let us see that difficulties and challenges can be the mark of following the Crucified and Risen Prince of Peace. Be will all those that we lift before you now... We pray for all those who might feel terribly discouraged today...In your powerful Name, we pray. Amen.

Seems Like Something I Would Do

     "If I had a nickel for every time I have forgotten something, I would be rich." -me. Let's take a look at the Good News for today, and then we can talk about my forgetfulness.

Mark 8:14-21

Now they had forgotten to bring bread, and they had only one loaf with them in the boat. And he cautioned them, saying, “Watch out; beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod.” And they began discussing with one another the fact that they had no bread. And Jesus, aware of this, said to them, “Why are you discussing the fact that you have no bread? Do you not yet perceive or understand? Are your hearts hardened? Having eyes do you not see, and having ears do you not hear? And do you not remember? When I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many baskets full of broken pieces did you take up?” They said to him, “Twelve.” “And the seven for the four thousand, how many baskets full of broken pieces did you take up?” And they said to him, “Seven.” And he said to them, “Do you not yet understand?”

     Yes, forgetting the bread and then worrying about what to do next even with Jesus sitting on the next boat cushion seems like something I would do. Maybe you have also said, "Where is my phone?" It is in my hand.

     I can almost hear the exasperation in Jesus' voice. It must have been hard, even for a divinely human Jesus to remain patient with the disciples. They have seen the miracles, in their front row seats. They can make out the detail of Jesus' cloak, all the way to the healing fringe. They were the ones counting up the baskets of the abundant bread bits. "Do you not yet understand?!" strikes to the heart of the issue. It seems ridiculous that the disciples did not realize the abundant providing presence that was flesh and blood, right there in the boat with them.

     Actually, I am feeling a little better about the times that I have a hard time remembering the thing I wanted to make sure I remembered to do. Yes, sure, I can set alarms and write sticky notes. They help, but the disciples seem to run on another level of foolish at times. They make me feel better. Surely we could have done better. The news seems to hint at otherwise. There are countless stories of "we should have noticed the signs..." from climate change to apartment building collapses.

     This got me thinking about how often the questions of Jesus are timeless. What sorts of things do we not yet understand? In what ways do we forget that Jesus is in the boat with us? Yes, sure, we all forget things. Why, though, do we forget the big things? What exactly are we unclear about? It seems silly, but I wonder if we don't trust the "magic tricks" of a miraculous God. Calling it "blind faith" only seems to make it harder to trust.

     If God is for us and with us, providing for us and yielding an abundance, then what does it mean when we run out of something? Coping with shortfalls in any category is fear and worry inducing. If we can remain calm and trusting, we also have to deal with our industry identity--if God is providing then what are we doing with our lives. This is the really hard part--what do we do? If God is in control, then what do we DO when it doesn't seem like it? The Good News for today is that God is always in control and providing. We just forget. We forget a lot of things. We even forget the really big and important things.

Remind us, O God, of whose we are and where you are in our world. Calm our troubled minds and soothe our restlessness to trust in you more deeply. Show us again your abiding presence. We praise you and give you all the glory. In your endless Name, we pray. Amen.

Listening Corner

     Yesterday morning in the news, there was a heartwarming story about a guy that realized he wasn't the only one feeling a bit lonely during this pandemic. He had gotten to a point where he wasn't sure if anyone would care if he were gone. He didn't feel like he had anyone to listen to him. So, he did something vulnerable and appropriately risky--set up a listening spot on a street corner. Almost every day he would be there for several hours. Putting up a tent and comfy chairs under it, he posted a large sign that announced free, no judgment listening. People stopped and shared all sorts of themselves from baking recipes to deep confessions. One man stopped on his way to suicide, his sign and conversation changed his path and his life. He returned another day to tell him that he saved his life.

     I tried to find this story so that I could post the link for you and found another story of another listener who set up free and open listening on campus steps along a main sidewalk. He found similar results, that people needed to be not just heard but listened to. Wow, these stories are inspirational. Siblings in Christ, this is a great witness to humanity and our capacity to be helpful for on another.

     In stark contrast, I saw a news story this morning about an anti-masking protest in a state struggling with rising COVID cases. Protesters were gathered around a public health professional in his car and I heard a snip-it of the protesters yelling that he couldn't hide and he wouldn't be safe to appear in public ever again. The video showed what happens when listening doesn't happen while tensions run high. I have posted previously about the Netflix documentary "The Social Dilemma," which I recommend as a deeper commentary into one of the chronic struggles that we are facing. Listening only to yourself and your side leads to more conflict and polarization. Open and free listening to one another outside in the open air is a beautiful antidote.

     If you need to talk. I am here to listen. Send me a message and we can sit out on a corner under a tent or an umbrella!

     To give credit where credit is due, I was inspired to write this devotional also by a conversation with Martin the frog and the other animals that appear in Children's Messages. It is important to consider other's complaints (like his that I was not giving the animals appropriate credit in the bulletin and the Climber newsletter), listen carefully and respond as much as is possible. Feedback is important! During this time it is important to be kind and patient with one another.

     The best listener and scripture connection that I thought of for today is John 10:1-6:

‘Very truly, I tell you, anyone who does not enter the sheepfold by the gate but climbs in by another way is a thief and a bandit. The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep hear his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes ahead of them, and the sheep follow him because they know his voice. They will not follow a stranger, but they will run from him because they do not know the voice of strangers.’ Jesus used this figure of speech with them, but they did not understand what he was saying to them.

     I thought of Jesus knowing us so well, and us listening carefully for his voice. Certainly, there are numerous others Bible stories about listening. Which one did you think of?

Great God, we thank you for listening to us, for hearing our cries and complaints. Even when we are not worthy of your attention, you still chase after us and do all that you can to help and guide us to the place of rest and peace. We praise you for this new day and all that you so generously give. Teach us to listen to you and to others more fully and with care. Show us the way to share of our lives and our time for the building up and spreading of your Reign. In the loving Name of the Good Shepherd, we pray. Amen.

Here is a good link to go deeper on listening: https://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/listening-essential-tool-anti-racism-work (Yes, listening is also helpful for anti-racism work!)

Buzz, Crunch, Psst

     These last few weeks have been marked by different sounds in the Fitch household. "Buzz," I am not

referring to the great pollinator, the honeybee that we have certainly seen while we are outside enjoy the warmth of summer. This buzzing is a bit more annoying and coming from the underside of my car. I have noticed it when driving with the windows down at certain country road cruising RPMs. I think I have identified the problem, so I am sitting in the lobby of a professional as I write this. "Crunch" was the sound of a deer striking Kerry's car just a few minutes into our drive home from a visit with Ryan, Amber, and Rowen. So, that vehicle is in a body shop being repaired. "Psst" was the sound of a tire on Emilee's car going flat while we weren't noticing.  I was about to borrow it to go on a visit.

     The inspirational connection for me was that I noticed a sense of "never-the-less joy." I noticed that I wasn't upset or grumpy about any of the issues. Things break. We all know that. We are also in a pandemic, which makes everyone a bit jumpy and sensitive at times. I was honestly a little surprised. Considering everything that was going on, I found myself wondering where the joy was coming from. It wasn't sleep--I hadn't been getting decent night's sleep lately. It diet or exercise. I could tell that it was from my spiritual discipline. More than just daily Bible readings, journaling and prayer, I have been working harder and listening more intently to God's hints and guidings. Siblings in Christ, we are not called to live as those who whine and complain, lash out or become bitter. Joy and peace is to be our way of life. It is not as hard to come by as you might think. I encourage you to pray and listen for God's noises and sounds that can overpower any of the distracting and frustrating ones that we might meet in our daily life!

1 Thessalonians 2:10-20
You are witnesses, and so is God, as to how holy and righteous and blameless our conduct was toward you who believe. As you know, we treated each one of you as a father treats his own children, exhorting and encouraging you and insisting that you live in a way worthy of God who calls you to his own kingdom and his glory. And so we too constantly thank God that when you received God’s message that you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human message, but as it truly is, God’s message, which is at work among you who believe. For you became imitators, brothers and sisters, of God’s churches in Christ Jesus that are in Judea, because you too suffered the same things from your own countrymen as they in fact did from the Jews, who killed both the Lord Jesus and the prophets and persecuted us severely. They are displeasing to God and are opposed to all people, because they hinder us from speaking to the Gentiles so that they may be saved. Thus they constantly fill up their measure of sins, but wrath has come upon them completely.

But when we were separated from you, brothers and sisters, for a short time (in presence, not in affection) we became all the more fervent in our great desire to see you in person. For we wanted to come to you (I, Paul, in fact tried again and again) but Satan thwarted us. For who is our hope or joy or crown to boast of before our Lord Jesus at his coming? Is it not of course you? For you are our glory and joy!

Lord God, guide us to be fruitful followers. Teach us to show patience and understanding to others. Illumine the way for greater and deeper listening. In your endless Name, we pray. Amen.

Wordsmith

I selected the text for today and was struck by an ancient to modern disconnect.

"From Paul and Timothy, slaves of Christ Jesus, to all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, with the overseers and deacons. Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ!" -Philippians 1:1

I didn't keep reading far past the word "slaves." I thought, oh I can't cut and paste this text without a significant comment. That is a loaded word for this country and its history. I was reading from the New English Translation (NET2), my current recommended Bible translation for study online. I knew the Greek word, but clicked on the notes for their reasoning of translation. Here are a couple of important nuggets:

Undoubtedly the background for the concept of being the Lord’s slave or servant is to be found in the Old Testament scriptures. For a Jew this concept did not connote drudgery, but honor and privilege. It was used of national Israel at times (Isa 43:10), but was especially associated with famous OT personalities, including such great men as Moses (Josh 14:7), David (Ps 89:3; cf. 2 Sam 7:5, 8) and Elijah (2 Kgs 10:10); all these men were “servants (or slaves) of the Lord.”

The word in focus, δοῦλος (doulos), is often translated as “servants” or “bondservants.” However, doulos does not mean a free individual serving another. A servant is free and compensated, both of which are preferable! A bondservant sells themselves into slavery for another, but this is archaic and not well known. The issue is partly our understanding of slaves and slavery. Being a slave in Biblical times was far better than early America. For background on this, I recommend the book, "Four Hundred Souls" edited by Ibram X. Kendi and Keisha N. Blain. In the Middle East, being enslaved was not a walk in the flower garden, but was typically for a term and certainly not hereditary or through the construct of race.

You might recall that Jesus said, "I no longer call you slaves (doulos) but friends" (John 15:15). The disciples were no longer pledging their lives into learning, but had taken the lessons to heart. So, why then would Paul choose a word that is problematic and a bit of a backstep? Paul is known to be a wordsmith, choosing

words carefully and often fashioning or bending them into a new usage for what would become the Christian worldview. He started the letter to the Church in Philippi with a word choice to represent a strange new reality. He used a strong word for emotion, devotion, and passion. Paul had chosen to turn over his whole life, time, and resources for God's doings. He reached a point where he realized there is no significant life without intently following every word that God utters. He found the miraculous protection and providence that defied the secular odds. Paul had recognized that the risen Christ is a master of kindness, generosity, and full spectrum love. It might not roll off the tongue, but given the words that follow, I think a better English translation for doulos would be, "self-enslaved." Opening a letter with a loving description of a life devotion to Christ Jesus is a better match to the overall positivity. Read on and you will see that he is writing from a perspective of joy and grace-filled appreciation. That doesn't happen in typical human enslavement!

"I thank my God every time I remember you. I always pray with joy in my every prayer for all of you because of your participation in the gospel from the first day until now. For I am sure of this very thing, that the one who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus. For it is right for me to think this about all of you, because I have you in my heart, since both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel all of you became partners in God’s grace together with me. For God is my witness that I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus. And I pray this, that your love may abound even more and more in knowledge and every kind of insight so that you can decide what is best, and thus be sincere and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ to the glory and praise of God."

Loving God,

May we know more fully your meaning and understanding of love, so that we would not hurt or exploit one another, but help and heal each other. Guide our lives into a greater reality of community. Remove from this generation all vestiges and stains from our past, and lead us in correcting the wrongs of our ancestors so that all your beloved may live in full harmony, fairness, and equality. In our own time, strengthen us to do the hard work of reconciliation and peace. Through the name of Christ Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Person Focus- Jan Hus

 Jan Hus, Martyr (July 6)— Isaiah 49:1-7  Psalm 135:1-13  1 Corinthians 1:18-24 

Mark 8:34-38

Then Jesus called the crowd, along with his disciples, and said to them, “If anyone wants to become my follower, he must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life because of me and because of the gospel will save it. For what benefit is it for a person to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his life? What can a person give in exchange for his life? For if anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will also be ashamed of him when he comes in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.”

     Focusing on the Life of Jan Hus and the Moravian Church, if Jan had not first objected to the broad corruption of the church (specifically including indulgences), it is doubtful that Martin Luther and the Reformation would have gained any traction. Hus pointed to the primacy of Scripture's authority over tradition. Jan wanted every person to be able to read Scripture.  His witness to the truth was so needed and so right, but yet was rejected entirely. It is hard to think about the church calling for and carrying out his death.

     This perspective makes me think about who has gone before me, who was needed to be the starter, and who might have given their life for anything that I might do. Of course, it also makes me think about corruption and the perversion of truth. Nothing irritates me more than when leaders twist truth or facts to describe their own version of "truth." 

We thank you, Almighty One, for sending faithful witnesses like Jan Hus. We praise you for your goodness and truth represented in the Holy Bible. Teach us to be careful, loving and compassionate examples for others. Promote justice and truth through the loving works of all your children. In the Name of Christ, we pray. Amen.