St. Benedict: A Saint of Beginnings

Today's Scripture Readings

Proverbs 2:1-9 (NRSV)

My child, if you accept my words

and treasure up my commandments within you,

making your ear attentive to wisdom

and inclining your heart to understanding;

if you indeed cry out for insight,

and raise your voice for understanding;

if you seek it like silver,

and search for it as for hidden treasures--

then you will understand the fear of the LORD

and find the knowledge of God.

For the LORD gives wisdom;

from his mouth come knowledge and understanding;

he stores up sound wisdom for the upright;

he is a shield to those who walk blamelessly,

guarding the paths of justice

and preserving the way of his faithful ones.

Then you will understand righteousness and justice

and equity, every good path;

Psalm 119:129-136 (BCP., p.774)


Luke 14:27-33 (NRSV)

Jesus said to the crowd, "Whoever does not carry the cross and follow me cannot be my disciple. For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not first sit down and estimate the cost, to see whether he has enough to complete it? Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who see it will begin to ridicule him, saying, `This fellow began to build and was not able to finish.' Or what king, going out to wage war against another king, will not sit down first and consider whether he is able with ten thousand to oppose the one who comes against him with twenty thousand? If he cannot, then, while the other is still far away, he sends a delegation and asks for the terms of peace. So therefore, none of you can become my disciple if you do not give up all your possessions."

Blog Reflection

I have written my share of blog posts about St. Benedict.  He has been an inspiration to me since 1993.  St. Benedict is known as the Father of Western Monasticism.  His Rule continues to speak to women and men in all times and places for over 1500 years.  Many names have passed through the history of the Church.  Monastic communities have come and gone, their founders forgotten.  St. Benedict's name is Latin for the word blessed.  How blessed the Church and much of Western Civilization is that St. Benedict's Monastic communities and influence in any number of things such as the Liturgy of the Hours, higher education, graduation garments, art, music, books, prayer, spirituality and labor.  The prayer and work of St. Benedict, The Rule and his emphasis on community gave birth to The Church of England and The Anglican Communion.  The Book of Common Prayer has Benedictine Spirituality all throughout its many pages.  

Among the many ideas that come from St. Benedict, I would like to focus on the idea that Benedict is the Saint of beginnings.  Throughout The Rule of St. Benedict he tells us that we are at a beginning point.  He either says so directly, or suggests it on not so many words.  Benedict tells us so in the Prologue, Chapter 4: The Tools of Good Works,  5: On Obedience, 7: Humility, the chapters about the Divine Office and so forth.  His over all message is that wherever we are, whatever we do, whatever we fail to do; we always have the opportunity to start over.

In the Gospel chosen for today's commemoration, Jesus is telling His disciples to pick up the cross and follow Him.  It is a beginning point.  Taking up our cross, taking an account of our lives and choosing to follow Christ as a disciple, requires us to commit ourselves to a fresh beginning.  To begin, we will have to let go of many things; our possessiveness, power, positions, prejudices and self-centered egos.  We will have to let go of our desire to hang onto our grudges hoping to get revenge.  If we are going to seek union with God in prayer and work with our devotion to justice for the oppressed and marginalized; we must begin with letting go.  We start to change the world around us, as we allow the Holy Spirit to begin to change us.

May all of us pray and work together by meditating on God's word in the Scriptures, and responding with compassion and mercy on ourselves and others around us.  St. Benedict gives us encouragement and direction.  Even when we are faced with difficulty because of our insecurities and limitations, Benedict tells us to keep on moving towards the goal in the here and now.

Do not be daunted immediately by fear and run away from the road that leads to salvation.  It is bound to be narrow at the outset.  But as we progress in this way of life and in faith, we shall run on the path of God's commandments, our hearts overflowing with the inexpressible delight of love.  Never swerving from his instructions, then, but faithfully observing his teaching in the monastery [or any other place we may be in life] until death, we shall through patience share in the sufferings of Christ that we may deserve also to share in his kingdom.  Amen.  (RB 1980: The Rule of St. Benedict in English. Prologue, vs. 48-50, p.19).

Prayer

Almighty and everlasting God, your precepts are the wisdom of a loving Father: Give us grace, following the teaching and example of your servant Benedict, to walk with loving and willing hearts in the school of the Lord's service; let your ears be open to our prayers; and prosper with your blessing the work of our hands; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.  (Holy Women, Holy Men: Celebrating the Saints., p.457).

Sixth Sunday of Easter: Say Those Words Again Jesus! Christians! Listen Up!

Today's Scripture Readings

Acts 10:44-48 (NRSV)

While Peter was still speaking, the Holy Spirit fell upon all who heard the word. The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astounded that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles, for they heard them speaking in tongues and extolling God. Then Peter said, "Can anyone withhold the water for baptizing these people who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?" So he ordered them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they invited him to stay for several days.

Psalm 98 (BCP., p.727)

1 John 5:1-6 (NRSV)

Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God, and everyone who loves the parent loves the child. By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and obey his commandments. For the love of God is this, that we obey his commandments. And his commandments are not burdensome, for whatever is born of God conquers the world. And this is the victory that conquers the world, our faith. Who is it that conquers the world but the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?

This is the one who came by water and blood, Jesus Christ, not with the water only but with the water and the blood. And the Spirit is the one that testifies, for the Spirit is the truth.

John 15:9-17 (NRSV)

Jesus said to his disciples, "As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and abide in his love. I have said these things to you so that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be complete.

"This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. No one has greater love than this, to lay down one's life for one's friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you. I do not call you servants any longer, because the servant does not know what the master is doing; but I have called you friends, because I have made known to you everything that I have heard from my Father. You did not choose me but I chose you. And I appointed you to go and bear fruit, fruit that will last, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask him in my name. I am giving you these commands so that you may love one another."

Blog Reflection

In all of the Gospel readings we could have, is there one that is more profound and more direct than this one?  Jesus is calling those who follow Him to do more than lip service.  Jesus is telling us in this Gospel passage to do more than gather councils and proclaim doctrines, creeds and legislate morality.  Jesus is telling us that all that He has spoken and done will only do wonders for the world if we love one another as He has loved us.

The love that Jesus calls us to this Sunday, is a love that is ready to give up all of our self interest for the sake of the other.  Jesus is calling us to purity of heart.  To seek to love God through loving one another to give evidence of who Jesus is and what Jesus did.  All the preaching, story telling, labors for social justice and equality for the sake of themselves will lead us to mission accomplished; but for the sake of what?  Even that (whatever it is) is limited so long as we do not heed these words of Jesus.  "Love one another as I have loved you."

Our problem is that we think that because we walk around and call ourselves Christians, it means we are exceptional human beings. We have no accountability to anyone for what we do, say, think and how we respond to others as if we are the only ones who matter.  In these words spoken by Jesus who gave up everything out of love for us all, and taught us how to love our neighbor as ourselves in and through the Paschal Mystery; we have our assignment.  As Christians, we need to not only think, but pray in earnest that all of us will regard each other and those who are not Christians with dignity and respect.  No amount of racism, sexism, heterosexism, transphobia, Islamophobia, etc. has any place to be protected and encouraged.  The love that Jesus commands of us, has no exceptions.  It is about helping Jesus to maintain His good Name as the One who came to serve and not be served. 

Sr. Joan Chittister, OSB wrote the following,

Among the ancients there is a story told that confirms this insight to this day:
"What action shall I perform to attain God?"  the disciple asked the elder.
"If you wish to attain God, " the elder said, "there are two things you must know.  The first is that all efforts to attain God are of no avail."
"And the second?" the disciple insisted.
"The second is that you must act as if you did not know the first," the elder said.
(The Rule of Benedict: A Spirituality for the 21st Century, p.21-22).

The spiritual life of the Christian is not attained by spiritual athletics.  It is lived into as we embrace one another, care about each other and respond to the Presence of Christ in each other.  In our individualistic society that rewards those who continue to threaten our environment with dangerous chemicals with wealth and security, or leaves the poor without the basic necessities of life while those who have double their amount; the message of love one another is only a myth.  Jesus commands us in this Gospel, to make the myth into a living reality.  It is about our relationship to Jesus and each other.  This is a commandment that is worth every effort and spiritual grace to keep on trying to do.  The reputation of the Name of Jesus Christ and the Church needs this now, more than ever before.

Help us, Lord Jesus to love one another as you have loved us.

Amen.


Prayers

O God, you have prepared for those who love you such good
things as surpass our understanding: Pour into our hearts such
love towards you, that we, loving you in all things and above
all things, may obtain your promises, which exceed all that we
can desire; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns
with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. (Collect for the Sixth Sunday of Easter. The Book of Common Prayer, p. 225).

Almighty Father, whose blessed Son before his passion prayed
for his disciples that they might be one, as you and he are one:
Grant that your Church, being bound together in love and
obedience to you, may be united in one body by the one Spirit,
that the world may believe in him whom you have sent, your
Son Jesus Christ our Lord; who lives and reigns with you, in
the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.  (Collect for the Unity of the Church.  The Book of Common Prayer, p. 255).

Almighty God, who created us in your image: Grant us
grace fearlessly to contend against evil and to make no peace
with oppression; and, that we may reverently use our freedom,
help us to employ it in the maintenance of justice in our
communities and among the nations, to the glory of your holy
Name; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with
you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.  (Collect for Social Justice.  The Book of Common Prayer, p. 260).

Easter Day: Christ is Risen! Christians, Live As Easter People!

Today's Scripture Readings

Acts 10:34-43 (NRSV)

Peter began to speak to the gentiles: "I truly understand that God shows no partiality, but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him. You know the message he sent to the people of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ--he is Lord of all. That message spread throughout Judea, beginning in Galilee after the baptism that John announced: how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power; how he went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him. We are witnesses to all that he did both in Judea and in Jerusalem. They put him to death by hanging him on a tree; but God raised him on the third day and allowed him to appear, not to all the people but to us who were chosen by God as witnesses, and who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead. He commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one ordained by God as judge of the living and the dead. All the prophets testify about him that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name."

Psalm 118 (BCP., p.760)


1 Corinthians 15:1-18 (NRSV)

I would remind you, brothers and sisters, of the good news that I proclaimed to you, which you in turn received, in which also you stand, through which also you are being saved, if you hold firmly to the message that I proclaimed to you--unless you have come to believe in vain.

For I handed on to you as of first importance what I in turn had received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the scriptures, and that he was buried, and that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers and sisters at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have died. Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. Last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me. For I am the least of the apostles, unfit to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace toward me has not been in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them--though it was not I, but the grace of God that is with me. Whether then it was I or they, so we proclaim and so you have come to believe.

John 20:1-18 (NRSV)

Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the tomb. So she ran and went to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved, and said to them, "They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him." Then Peter and the other disciple set out and went toward the tomb. The two were running together, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first. He bent down to look in and saw the linen wrappings lying there, but he did not go in. Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went into the tomb. He saw the linen wrappings lying there, and the cloth that had been on Jesus' head, not lying with the linen wrappings but rolled up in a place by itself. Then the other disciple, who reached the tomb first, also went in, and he saw and believed; for as yet they did not understand the scripture, that he must rise from the dead. Then the disciples returned to their homes.

But Mary stood weeping outside the tomb. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb; and she saw two angels in white, sitting where the body of Jesus had been lying, one at the head and the other at the feet. They said to her, "Woman, why are you weeping?" She said to them, "They have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid him." When she had said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to her, "Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you looking for?" Supposing him to be the gardener, she said to him, "Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away." Jesus said to her, "Mary!" She turned and said to him in Hebrew, "Rabbouni!" (which means Teacher). Jesus said to her, "Do not hold on to me, because I have not yet ascended to the Father. But go to my brothers and say to them, `I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.'" Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, "I have seen the Lord"; and she told them that he had said these things to her.

Blog Reflection

Alleluia! Christ is risen.

The Lord is risen indeed. Alleluia!

Beloved Christians, today we sing Jesus Christ Is Risen Today and Hail Thee Festival Day!  We gather in large numbers to celebrate what the Scriptures, Tradition and faith have celebrated throughout the Centuries.  The choirs are singing hymns and anthems while the organ and other instruments are being played with brilliance and jubilation.  Easter dinners and parties with family and friends celebrate the arrival of Easter and the long awaited ending of Lent and Holy Week.  What a beautiful and wonderful day.

That first Easter morning must not have been a happy one in the beginning for Mary and the other women.  They came to the tomb to bring spices and fresh linens.  They must not have known that Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea had already done those things at Jesus' burial.  Imagine the horrified look on their faces when they found the tomb empty.   Imagine the look on their faces when they were met by the angels as is recorded in Matthew, Mark and Luke who told them, "He is not here.  He is risen!"

What about those disciples?  They were told on any number of occasions that Jesus would be crucified and on three days rise again.  The mighty Peter who said that he would follow Jesus wherever He went, denied Him three times.  Now, Peter is looking into an empty tomb, turned away and went home "for as yet they did not understand the scripture, that he must rise from the dead." 

As Christians who claim to believe in the Resurrection, where do we find the evidence of such around us?  We celebrated Lent and Holy Week.  Here we are on Easter Day.  It is hard to find evidence of the Resurrection in our politics and news.  Gun violence still runs rapid with no additional legal protections.  Racism is a wild animal that preys upon teenagers, women and men in our police departments, schools, colleges and churches.  Bills are written, debated and fast tracked to give a license to discriminate on the basis of "religious liberty" to deny basic human services to LGBTQ people, Muslims, Jews and others who do not fit the criteria of Christianists.  "Religious Liberty" is worth defending if one agrees with their version.  If one does not, then Christianists and Dominionists are being persecuted by making martyrs of themselves only.   Is it any wonder that Christians are viewed as standing at the empty tomb with the disciples and wondering what really happened?  Is it any wonder that many just cannot believe in the awesome Christian Faith that many of us embrace and love?

Thankfully, the Easter story did not end with the disbelieving disciples.  It took a woman of faith to weep in the garden, symbolizing the cries of Eve.   A woman who still believed in the hope of the Resurrection, finds her faith rewarded in her helplessness and despair as the Risen Christ comes and calls her by name.  The Risen Christ identifies Mary who is given the greatest of contemplative visions.  The Risen Christ didn't blame the woman for not believing, as Adam did.  The Risen Christ affirms the faith of Mary and ends all sexism and doubt that God restored humankind to it's Divine origins with our brokenness exposed, in a perpetual embrace in radical hospitality and reconciliation.  "There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." (Romans 8:1).  As an Episcopalian and a Christian, I believe there is also no condemnation for those who are not in Christ Jesus as we Christians understand it to be so.  The Jesus that I believe in who rose bodily from the grave, embraces every person with dignity and unconditional love.

On this Easter Day, we renew our Baptismal Vows in communion with other Christians around the world.  To the questions, "Will you seek and serve Christ in all persons, loving your neighbor as yourself?", and "Will you strive for justice and peace among all persons, and respect the dignity of every human being?" we collectively and individually answer, "I will, with God's help."

Today, as Christians we celebrate our Lord Jesus Christ risen from the dead.  Now, let us celebrate by living as Easter People.  May we be an Easter People calling for an end to violence, prejudice, oppression and become ambassadors for the Risen Christ by doing all we can to make it so.

Amen.

Alleluia!  Christ is risen.

The Lord is risen indeed.  Alleluia!

Prayers

Almighty God, who through your only-begotten Son Jesus
Christ overcame death and opened to us the gate of
everlasting life: Grant that we, who celebrate with joy the
day of the Lord's resurrection, may be raised from the death
of sin by your life-giving Spirit; through Jesus Christ our
Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one
God, now and for ever. Amen.  (Collect for Easter Day.  The Book of Common Prayer, p.222).

Grant, O God, that your holy and life-giving Spirit may so
move every human heart [and especially the hearts of the
people of this land], that barriers which divide us may
crumble, suspicions disappear, and hatreds cease; that our
divisions being healed, we may live in justice and peace;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. (Prayer for Social Justice.  The Book of Common Prayer, p.823).

Fifth Sunday in Lent: From Cana to Bethany, Discipleship Is Costly.

Today's Scripture Readings

Isaiah 43:16-21(NRSV)

Thus says the LORD,

who makes a way in the sea,

a path in the mighty waters,

who brings out chariot and horse,

army and warrior;

they lie down, they cannot rise,

they are extinguished, quenched like a wick:

Do not remember the former things,

or consider the things of old.

I am about to do a new thing;

now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?

I will make a way in the wilderness

and rivers in the desert.

The wild animals will honor me,

the jackals and the ostriches;

for I give water in the wilderness,

rivers in the desert,

to give drink to my chosen people,

the people whom I formed for myself

so that they might declare my praise.

Psalm 126 (BCP., p.782)



Philippians 3:4b-14(NRSV)

If anyone else has reason to be confident in the flesh, I have more: circumcised on the eighth day, a member of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew born of Hebrews; as to the law, a Pharisee; as to zeal, a persecutor of the church; as to righteousness under the law, blameless.

Yet whatever gains I had, these I have come to regard as loss because of Christ. More than that, I regard everything as loss because of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things, and I regard them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but one that comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God based on faith. I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the sharing of his sufferings by becoming like him in his death, if somehow I may attain the resurrection from the dead.

Not that I have already obtained this or have already reached the goal; but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Beloved, I do not consider that I have made it my own; but this one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the heavenly call of God in Christ Jesus.

John 12:1-8 (NRSV)

Six days before the Passover Jesus came to Bethany, the home of Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. There they gave a dinner for him. Martha served, and Lazarus was one of those at the table with him. Mary took a pound of costly perfume made of pure nard, anointed Jesus' feet, and wiped them with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. But Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples (the one who was about to betray him), said, "Why was this perfume not sold for three hundred denarii and the money given to the poor?" (He said this not because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief; he kept the common purse and used to steal what was put into it.) Jesus said, "Leave her alone. She bought it so that she might keep it for the day of my burial. You always have the poor with you, but you do not always have me."

Blog Reflection

We have traveled quite the journey since the Second Sunday after the Epiphany.  When we last joined Jesus in the Gospel according to John, we found ourselves at Cana where Jesus transformed the water into wine.   During the last eight weeks, we have been reading our way through the Gospel of Luke.   From Jesus' inaugural address, right up to the parable of the prodigal last weekend.  Now suddenly, we are returned to John's Gospel with Mary Magdalene pouring ointment on the feet of Jesus, wiping them with her hair and kissing them.   What might the significance of this be?

This Gospel narrative contains some comparisons to the Wedding feast at Cana in John 2:1-11.  First, Jesus is present for a feast.  In Cana it was a wedding feast at which Mary his mother was present who tells Jesus that they have no wine.   Jesus' reply to her "Woman, what is this to you, my hour has not yet come." After, Jesus suddenly becomes the host and turns jars of water into the best wine served at the feast.

Here in Bethany, Jesus has just raised Lazarus from the dead. Martha, Mary Magdalene and Lazarus prepare and celebrate a dinner together. Mary breaks open a very expensive jar of ointment. This ointment in their time, would be the rough equivalent of 600 bottles of the best wine, each priced at about $9,250.00 in our time.  It was by far the most expensive and extravagant on the market.  It might very well have cost Mary every thing she had.  She used it to prepare the feet of Jesus to walk to his triumphal entry into Jerusalem.  Jesus will celebrate His Last Supper with His disciples.  Jesus will be tried, and handed over to be scourged, spit upon, mocked and finally nailed to the Cross to die.  Jesus will be laid in the tomb on Holy Saturday.  On Easter Day, Jesus will rise from the dead.

Mary Magdalene is breaking many traditions here.  First, she is a woman, considered the "weak" one in her society.  She is choosing to do something to this man named Jesus that appears to be foolish. Unheard of. She is also not concerned of what the authorities of the day think of this man. She is not concerned about the cost of the ointment, nor her reputation for being a slave for the One who is God, who came among us as a servant of the marginalized and oppressed of society. She is challenging those who are complaining about her, to think far outside the box of serving the poor. She is challenging them to see and serve Christ in all whom they may serve.

This past week during my formation studies I read Chapter 64, The Election of a Superior in The Rule of St. Benedict.  In verses 11-13 Benedict wrote:

He (the Abbot) must hate faults, but love the brothers.  When he must punish them (the monks for their faults), he should use prudence and avoid extremes; otherwise, by rubbing too hard to remove the rust, he may break the vessel.  He is to distrust his own frailty and remember not to crush the bruised reed (Isa. 42:3).

In A Life Giving Way: A Commentary on the Rule of St. Benedict, Esther de Waal writes of Benedict having taught the brothers to handle all of the goods of the monastery as the sacred vessels of the altar (cf. RB 1980 Chapter 31 vs. 10).   In her commentary on Chapter 64: 11-13 she writes:

When it comes to the need to punish, there is a very nice picture of the abbot being bewar not to rub too hard to remove the rust in case the vessel gets broken.  This is for me a picture that catches so completely Benedict's emphasis on gentleness, on compassion, on handling with care.  But it is also surely more than that.  In using that image of the person as a vessel, he is saying something incarnational.  Is he not telling us that each person is a Eucharistic vessel (p.214)?

All of us need to learn to see Christ in our neighbor. Each person is a sacred vessel containing the presence of Christ. We can and should serve one another with gladness and joy. To serve another, is to serve Christ. 

What might all of this say to us on this Fifth Sunday in Lent?

Being a disciple of Jesus Christ is costly.  It will demand our best and our all.   We will be challenged to let go. Turn over ourselves over and over again for the use of God's will.  At times, it will cost us that which is most precious to us. It might be that special date or time we had planned to entertain ourselves or become an entertainer.  It may cost us our popularity. It may cost us those possessions that we are hoarding all for ourselves, when others could use our excess.  It may be our intellectual pride by which we think we are smarter than others.  It may be our desire to fit in with the most powerful, wealthy and the best looking.

Our society and the Church need this message desperately.

This past week we witnessed the incredible rising of Argentine Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio now elected as Pope Francis I.  The tradition that brought it all about captured the world for a brief period of time.  He has been a huge supporter of ending the income inequality of the people of Argentina for many years.  Yet, he is opposed to marriage equality and adoption of children by LGBT people, a woman's right to choose and contraception.  He chose the name Francis of Assisi because of his affection for the poor of the world.  Earlier today, in his first press conference since his election, he said "I would love a Church that is poor."   With the exception of his position on women and LGBT people, what he proposes so far, sounds promising.  Time will see and test the sincerity of Francis 1sts message and leadership. 

One of the reasons that the Rule of St. Benedict attracts me so much, is because in chapters 60 and 62 Benedict puts the idea of his monastery becoming fertile ground for clericalism out the front door.   Complete with a "do not return" sign, so to speak.  Priests are not to come to the monastery with the intention of rearranging the monastery for their own comforts.  Nor do they hold any place of privilege among the brothers. Only if the Abbot chooses and deems it profitable for the whole community, can a Priest who might enter the monastery, be given a different place of rank.  If by chance a priest becomes difficult to live with, he could be asked to leave.  The number one concern for Benedict is that the stability of the community in Christ be maintained and not be overcome by grumbling or any kind of political maneuvering.

As I have been watching many of the things going on in the whole Christian Church  (Catholic and beyond), I have great respect for the good leaders of the Church.  Many, whom even though I have disagreements with are respectable leaders, with good intentions and great vision.  However, in just about every situation, there is that horrible "animal" for lack of a better word, called clericalism.  Clericalism is suppose to be an aid to ministry.  In the hands of the best of leaders, clericalism serves God's purposes first.  Not the cleric moving up the popularity ladder among her/his colleagues.  Such great leaders use their leadership to breath new air into the lives of many who have often experienced estrangement from the Church.  They make serving Christ and His people in the Church their first priority.  Not defending their clerical authority.

However, in the wrong hands, clericalism becomes a measuring rod for political power.  These include the influence of the National Conference of Catholic Bishops and their campaign with the National Organization for Marriage to organize a "March for Marriage" opposing marriage equality for LGBT people at the Supreme Court on Tuesday of Holy Week this year.  It includes the clericalism within the Roman Catholic church that refuses to bend so that actual justice and compassion can be exercised on behalf of countless sexually exploited and abused children.  Because of clericalism, those responsible for committing the abuses and protecting the abuser for the benefit of the institutionalized church, there is no public accountability.  Because there is no accountability, the healing for the faith of wounded believers cannot be properly cared for.  These two examples, should raise serious concern about the harm to the Name of Jesus Christ and His Church. In this case, clericalism is the expensive thing, being held close at the expense of the glory of God and all that Christ came to achieve in the Paschal Mystery.

In our society, we have politicians in Washington, DC treasuring and protecting their political party, their corporate billions in donations as more precious than addressing the issues of climate change, regulation of the most dangerous of fire arms, public funds for health care, education, good paying jobs, and infrastructure.   Keeping the donations and friendship of the Family Research Council, the American Family Association and the National Rifle Association is more important than granting the freedom to marry for LGBT people, protecting our youth from bullying in our schools and keeping everyone in our neighborhoods safe.

Our Gospel today challenges us to give the very best of what we have, that which we most treasure and use it to serve Jesus Christ first and foremost.  For example, our sexuality is given to us for our enjoyment and sharing with that special someone we love.  The gender of those sharing in the experience is the least of God's concern.  What is God's concern is that we are using it out of love for the other person. That we respect and being willing to commit ourselves to the common good of the other person.  Our sexuality is not an end in and of itself.  Nor is it an opportunity to compete for the best looking person, to use for our own end. In giving this gift back to God, we give of ourselves out of love for God, our neighbor and ourselves.

What might God be calling on us to give out of our love for Jesus Christ today?

What would the giving of our most precious thing for Jesus Christ, and the common good of others look like for you?

How do we prepare to celebrate Holy Week and Easter, by giving the very best of what we have, so that "God may be glorified in all things" (1 Peter 4:11 NRSV)?

St. Benedict offers a suggestion that we might all do well to meditate on this last week of Lent.

Do not be daunted immediately by fear or run away from the road that leads to salvation.  It is bound to be narrow at the outset.  But as we progress in this way of life and in faith, we shall run on the path of God's commandments, our hearts overflowing with the inexpressible delight of love.  Never swerving from his instructions, then, by faithfully observing his teaching in the monastery [or where ever you happen to be] until death, we shall through patience share in the sufferings of Christ that we may deserve also to share in his kingdom.  Amen. (RB 1980, The Rule of St. Benedict in Latin and English, p. 166,167).

Prayers

Almighty God, you alone can bring into order the unruly
wills and affections of sinners: Grant your people grace to
love what you command and desire what you promise; that,
among the swift and varied changes of the world, our hearts
may surely there be fixed where true joys are to be found;
through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with
you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen. (Collect for the Fifth Sunday in Lent, Book of Common Prayer, p. 219).


O God, you made us in your own image and redeemed us
through Jesus your Son: Look with compassion on the whole
human family; take away the arrogance and hatred which
infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us;
unite us in bonds of love; and work through our struggle and
confusion to accomplish your purposes on earth; that, in
your good time, all nations and races may serve you in
harmony around your heavenly throne; through Jesus Christ
our Lord. Amen. (Prayer for the Human Family, Book of Common Prayer, p.815).

O Lord our Governor, bless the leaders of our land, that we
may be a people at peace among ourselves and a blessing to
other nations of the earth.
Lord, keep this nation under your care.

To the President and members of the Cabinet, to Governors
of States, Mayors of Cities, and to all in administrative
authority, grant wisdom and grace in the exercise of their
duties.
Give grace to your servants, O Lord.

To Senators and Representatives, and those who make our
laws in States, Cities, and Towns, give courage, wisdom, and
foresight to provide for the needs of all our people, and to
fulfill our obligations in the community of nations.
Give grace to your servants, O Lord.

To the Judges and officers of our Courts give understanding
and integrity, that human rights may be safeguarded and
justice served.
Give grace to your servants, O Lord.

And finally, teach our people to rely on your strength and to
accept their responsibilities to their fellow citizens, that they
may elect trustworthy leaders and make wise decisions for
the well-being of our society; that we may serve you
faithfully in our generation and honor your holy Name.
For yours is the kingdom, O Lord, and you are exalted as
head above all. Amen.  (Prayer for Sound Government, Book of Common Prayer, p.821,822).

Twenty First Sunday after Pentecost: Faith and Service are Inseparable

Today's Scripture Readings

Isaiah 53: 4-12 (NRSV)

Surely he has borne our infirmities

and carried our diseases;

yet we accounted him stricken,

struck down by God, and afflicted.

But he was wounded for our transgressions,

crushed for our iniquities;

upon him was the punishment that made us whole,

and by his bruises we are healed.

All we like sheep have gone astray;

we have all turned to our own way,

and the LORD has laid on him

the iniquity of us all.

He was oppressed, and he was afflicted,

yet he did not open his mouth;

like a lamb that is led to the slaughter,

and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent,

so he did not open his mouth.

By a perversion of justice he was taken away.

Who could have imagined his future?

For he was cut off from the land of the living,

stricken for the transgression of my people.

They made his grave with the wicked

and his tomb with the rich,

although he had done no violence,

and there was no deceit in his mouth.

Yet it was the will of the LORD to crush him with pain.

When you make his life an offering for sin,

he shall see his offspring, and shall prolong his days;

through him the will of the LORD shall prosper.

Out of his anguish he shall see light;

he shall find satisfaction through his knowledge.

The righteous one, my servant, shall make many righteous,

and he shall bear their iniquities.

Therefore I will allot him a portion with the great,

and he shall divide the spoil with the strong;

because he poured out himself to death,

and was numbered with the transgressors;

yet he bore the sin of many,

and made intercession for the transgressors.

Psalm 91 (BCP., p. 720).


Hebrews 5: 1-10 (NRSV)

Every high priest chosen from among mortals is put in charge of things pertaining to God on their behalf, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins. He is able to deal gently with the ignorant and wayward, since he himself is subject to weakness; and because of this he must offer sacrifice for his own sins as well as for those of the people. And one does not presume to take this honor, but takes it only when called by God, just as Aaron was.
So also Christ did not glorify himself in becoming a high priest, but was appointed by the one who said to him,

"You are my Son,

today I have begotten you";

as he says also in another place,

"You are a priest forever,

according to the order of Melchizedek."

In the days of his flesh, Jesus offered up prayers and supplications, with loud cries and tears, to the one who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission. Although he was a Son, he learned obedience through what he suffered; and having been made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him, having been designated by God a high priest according to the order of Melchizedek.

Mark 10: 35-45 (NRSV)

James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came forward to Jesus and said to him, "Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we ask of you." And he said to them, "What is it you want me to do for you?" And they said to him, "Grant us to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your glory." But Jesus said to them, "You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, or be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?" They replied, "We are able." Then Jesus said to them, "The cup that I drink you will drink; and with the baptism with which I am baptized, you will be baptized; but to sit at my right hand or at my left is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared."

When the ten heard this, they began to be angry with James and John. So Jesus called them and said to them, "You know that among the Gentiles those whom they recognize as their rulers lord it over them, and their great ones are tyrants over them. But it is not so among you; but whoever wishes to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you must be slave of all. For the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many."

Blog Reflection

By now the political mudslinging has just about everyone fatigued from all the negativism and competition.  Whether on the television, radio, internet, just driving on the roads with bill boards, lawn signs and bumper stickers in our faces no matter where we go.   Billions of dollars being poured into the campaigns for President, Congress, State and local offices, on many sides of the political debates. 

In today's Gospel it appears as if Jesus found himself present for a political debate.  James and John wanted from Jesus the decision concerning who would sit on his right or his left.  They are seeing the Reign of God as a matter of power, prestige and a position of dominance.   Jesus replies to them with the reality of what God's Reign is really about.  Jesus is the Reign of God who came to give those who had been shut out, a place at the table.   Jesus not only called his followers to be servants and to give their lives, he was the very example of what he was calling others to do in his Name.   Jesus was not afraid to take off his clothing, wrap a towel around his waist, kneel down and wash the feet of the disciples.   Jesus reached out to the woman who wept at his feet, and dried them with her hair, and showed her that the mercy of God was greater than her social status and her sins.  Jesus saw the value of a tax collector called Matthew and invited him to be part of those who serve others so that God's Reign might be more present in the world.  Even though our sins put Jesus on the cross, he had the faith and selfless love to say: "Father, forgive them, they know not what they do."

As followers of Jesus Christ, we are called to see that our faith and service are inseparable from each other.  What we believe, needs to be visible by what we do.  All of us are redeemed by the Grace of God.  We have been invited to partake of the Presence of God in worship, prayer and Sacrament, but we are also empowered to be an example of Christ in our world.  In our jobs, families, communities and relationships.   This means that our prejudices and violent rhetoric that could serve to exclude and oppress others who are different from ourselves, is out of line with what Jesus calls us to in the Gospel today.

This past Friday, we celebrated Spirit Day, when we take a stand against bullying of LGBT youth.  Too many young people who are questioning their sexual orientation and/or gender identity/expression, find it so difficult to tell their families, friends, church community leaders and any one close to them.  This fear is not without its legitimacy.  In addition to these and many other challenges, they face being bullied for their actual sexual orientation and/or gender identity/expression, or even if they are perceived as LGBT.   While concerned parents and citizens seek to ask local school districts to create stronger policies addressing the bullying being experienced by LGBT youth, other individuals who call themselves Christians or even "true Christians" feel it is their duty to the "infallible Word of God" to allow bullying.   "If only they are bullied, the just might change or want to be changed."  Such is their attitudes.

Sexual orientation and/or gender identity/expression are not the only issues by which people are bullied.  People of different faith backgrounds, or no faith at all, individuals of different races, cultural backgrounds, physical/emotional and developmental challenges, wealth status etc are bullied by politicians, religious folks and common people every day.  Hard working, middle class people are being bullied by corporate CEO's to vote for the candidate that best supports their CEO's billion dollar profits.   Veterans who have fought in our wars and come home with injuries, PTSD and multiple issues are ignored by our political and social systems.   People who are poor and in need of local social services are losing the agencies they need, because the public dollars are being spent on billion dollar ad campaigns and so forth.  

Jesus invites us today, to see beyond the rhetoric of what it means to be a Christian.  He calls upon you and me to know that our discipleship is about being willing to see past our prejudices and see an opportunity to serve Christ in others.  Whether by our vote, our worship, our volunteer services or even our occupations, as Christians we have been given an example of inclusive and unconditional love in the Person of Jesus Christ.  Rather than look for the greatest of glory by being God's Son, Jesus "does not regard equality with God as something to be exploited, but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, and being born in human likeness.  And being found in human form, he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death--even death on a cross" (Philippians 2:6-8, NRSV). 

How is God calling us to be servants?  

How are we answering that call?

What might we do so that others may know that our faith and service are inseparable?

Amen.


Prayers

Almighty and everlasting God, in Christ you have revealed
your glory among the nations: Preserve the works of your
mercy, that your Church throughout the world may
persevere with steadfast faith in the confession of your
Name; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns
with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
Amen. (Proper 24, Book of Common Prayer, p. 235).


Lord Jesus Christ, you stretched out your arms of love on
the hard wood of the cross that everyone might come within
the reach of your saving embrace: So clothe us in your Spirit
that we, reaching forth our hands in love, may bring those
who do not know you to the knowledge and love of you; for
the honor of your Name. Amen. (Prayer for Mission, Book of Common Prayer, p. 101).


Look with pity, O heavenly Father, upon the people in this
land who live with injustice, terror, disease, and death as
their constant companions. Have mercy upon us. Help us to
eliminate our cruelty to these our neighbors. Strengthen those
who spend their lives establishing equal protection of the law
and equal opportunities for all. And grant that every one of
us may enjoy a fair portion of the riches of this land; through
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. (Prayer for the Oppressed, Book of Common Prayer, p. 826).

Sixth Sunday After Pentecost: What if Provincetown is more what Jesus meant the Reign of God to be like?

Today's Scripture Reading

Mark 6:1-13

Jesus left that place and came to his hometown, and his disciples followed him. On the sabbath he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were astounded. They said, "Where did this man get all this? What is this wisdom that has been given to him? What deeds of power are being done by his hands! Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon, and are not his sisters here with us?" And they took offense at him. Then Jesus said to them, "Prophets are not without honor, except in their hometown, and among their own kin, and in their own house." And he could do no deed of power there, except that he laid his hands on a few sick people and cured them. And he was amazed at their unbelief.

Then he went about among the villages teaching. He called the twelve and began to send them out two by two, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits. He ordered them to take nothing for their journey except a staff; no bread, no bag, no money in their belts; but to wear sandals and not to put on two tunics. He said to them, "Wherever you enter a house, stay there until you leave the place. If any place will not welcome you and they refuse to hear you, as you leave, shake off the dust that is on your feet as a testimony against them." So they went out and proclaimed that all should repent. They cast out many demons, and anointed with oil many who were sick and cured them.

Blog Reflection

My partner Jason and I are on vacation this week in Provincetown, Massachusetts.   A place where LGBT equality and general acceptance of all kinds of people is a given.   Every where we walk there are people of all kinds of sexual orientations and/or gender identities/expressions walking around, hand in hand.  Shopping.  Kissing.  Greeting each other, warmly and with hospitality.  Sharing a meal together.  Sharing a taxi cab from one end of the town to the other. 

As I am reading the news of all that is going on with the General Convention of the Episcopal Church in Indianapolis, I am thinking these thoughts.   All of the legislation, debates, conversations, decisions.  Should the Church pass the rites for the blessing of same-sex relationships?  Should there be equal treatment of transgender people in the Church, protecting them from discrimination?  How should the structure of the Episcopal Church change?

In our Gospel today, Jesus shows us how he lived and then he sends out his disciples to live how he lived.  Seeking peace, repentance and reconciliation.  If they find a place where they are not received in hospitality, he tells them to shake the dust from their feet.

What if the Church, the world were a place where we just walked hand in hand with each other?

What if society and the Church celebrated the goodness in all of us together?

What if we brought about the reign of God by healing, loving, holding hands?  Greeting each other in friendship, even with everything about each other that drives us and them crazy.

For one thing, we wouldn't be able to just walk past those who are on the margins of society and the Church blindly, or as if they are not there.  We would have to do all that we could to be more inclusive, hospitable and reconciling.   We would work for justice, equality and peace.  Economic equality.  Equality for women, LGBT people, Native Americans, Muslims, Jewish people.  There would be the understanding that everyone's equality is a given, so we all work together to make it happen.

I hope that we will all take some time to relax and unwind this Summer.  To find those places that seem like the work of equality for all is a given, and almost taken for granted, rather than be the exception.  Places to connect with God, others and ourselves so that we can be re-energized for the ministry of inclusiveness and hospitality. 


Prayers

O God, you have taught us to keep all your commandments by loving you and our neighbor: Grant us the grace of your Holy Spirit, that we may be devoted to you with our whole heart, and united to one another with pure affection; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.  (Proper 9, Book of Common Prayer, p. 230).

O God, you made us in your own image and redeemed us
through Jesus your Son: Look with compassion on the whole
human family; take away the arrogance and hatred which
infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us;
unite us in bonds of love; and work through our struggle and
confusion to accomplish your purposes on earth; that, in
your good time, all nations and races may serve you in
harmony around your heavenly throne; through Jesus Christ
our Lord. Amen. (Prayer for the Human Family, Book of Common Prayer, p, 815).

Fredrick Douglass: The Truth Shall Make You Free

Today's Scripture Reading

John 8: 31-32 (NRSV)

Then Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, "if you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free."

Blog Reflection

The Episcopal Church today, commemorates Fredrick Douglass.  A man who was separated from his mother at birth, and given to his new "owners" as a slave at the age of eight. Fredrick was given to Hugh and Sophia Auld by Hugh's brother. He eventually learned to read. He eventually fled his captors. Through many hardships and in the face of injustice, he became an activist in the abolitionist movement. (See Holy Women, Holy Men, Celebrating the Saints, p. 232).

Fearing the possibility that his owners might try to reclaim their "property" he fled to Ireland and Britain.   In his Autobiography slave narrative, My Bondage, My Freedom, Fredrick wrote:

"Eleven days and a half gone and I have crossed three thousand miles of the perilous deep. Instead of a democratic government, I am under a monarchical government. Instead of the bright, blue sky of America, I am covered with the soft, grey fog of the Emerald Isle [Ireland]. I breathe, and lo! the chattel [slave] becomes a man. I gaze around in vain for one who will question my equal humanity, claim me as his slave, or offer me an insult. I employ a cab—I am seated beside white people—I reach the hotel—I enter the same door—I am shown into the same parlour—I dine at the same table—and no one is offended... I find myself regarded and treated at every turn with the kindness and deference paid to white people. When I go to church, I am met by no upturned nose and scornful lip to tell me, 'We don't allow niggers in here!'"

I don't normally write a blog on optional commemorations in our Church calendar.  I do find it a bit odd that Fredrick Douglass' feast day would even be optional.  It is such an appropriate and important remembrance during Black History Month.  Given all the racial language that has been coming out towards President Barack Obama, and GOP Presidential candidates carelessly using race as a campaign issue to gain support through negative stereotyping, I think pausing to reflect on an individual who faced prejudice and injustice with such an outspoken and profound voice is an imperative.

Of what truth is Jesus speaking of in today's Gospel?   How do we define what truth we need to know, so that we are set free?

The context of this particular Gospel story is quite confusing.  The eighth chapter of John begins with the story of the woman caught in adultery.  Jesus challenges those who brought her to him, to try to trap him, to cast the first stone by the one among them who is without their own sin.  That narrative, which is an addition to the original text is followed by Jesus speaking of himself as the Light of the world.   Next, comes Jesus foretelling of his death in a very heated discussion with Jewish people who are seriously questioning his respect for the present Jewish faith.  As we come to the place where today's Gospel reading taken, Jesus is finding Jews who believe in him and his words, and decide to follow him.   This text is then followed by Jesus proclaiming himself as one with God, by stating that before Abraham was, "I am."

Is Jesus really saying in this text that everything that the Jews had believed and practiced was now completely invalid?  Given how those who formed John's Gospel as to state that Jesus is the Messiah of God, one could derive from it a sense of supercessionism.   The old has gone, the new has come.  Or so it appears.

The words that Jesus speaks throughout the synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark & Luke) and here in John is not one of supercessionism.  This is not a moment of replacing what always was, with something that replaces it. 

In the Gloria Patri, we pray, "Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen."  The newer supplement to the Book of Common Prayer called Renewing Our Worship replaces the male pronouns with; "Praise to the Holy and Undivided Trinity, One God: as it was in the beginning.......".   The truth about Jesus is that God's Incarnate Word always was, is now, and will be forever.   The truth that Jesus speaks of is found in the Jewish faith, as much as it is found in the Christian faith, the Islamic faith and even in those who practice no religion at all.  It is the truth that seeking the common good of all people, by being compassionate, inclusive and concerned about renewing the face of the earth, by recognizing the goodness of God that exists in all people, is the truth that Jesus not only speaks, but acted upon through out his earthly ministry.  This is the truth that will set us free.

Throughout his life, Jesus does the work of God, the Opus Dei.  Jesus participates in God's creation of the world, by meeting the needs of those who have been marginalized, and made to be second class citizens in a time where there was oppression all around him, with God's redemption and hope for salvation.  Jesus' ministry of hospitality and reconciliation of those who were told that there was no place in his religion or in society, was the counter cultural message that we pray in Psalm 34: 15-22 on page 628 of the Book of Common Prayer. 

The eyes of the LORD are upon the righteous,
  and his ears are open to their cry. 

The face of the LORD is against those who do evil,
  to root out the remembrance of them from the earth. 

The righteous cry, and the LORD hears them
  and delivers them from all their troubles. 

The LORD is near to the broken hearted
  and will save those whose spirits are crushed. 

Many are the troubles of the righteous,
  but the LORD will deliver them all. 

He will keep save all his bones;
  not one of them shall be broken.

 Evil shall slay the wicked,
  and those who hate the righteous will be punished. 

The LORD ransoms the life of his servants,
  and none will be punished who trust in him.

The racism, sexism, heterosexism, class discrimination and the social diseases that many Christians claim is defended by Jesus and the Scriptures, are injustices that have no place in God's "House of Prayer for all peoples" (Isaiah 56: 7b).    What Jesus envisions in that "truth, by which you will be set free" is one by which every daughter and son of God is given a place at the table of humankind, to pursue a life of liberty, happiness and the hope of prosperity.  A kingdom where equality for all is taken for granted, not the exception to the rule.  Everyone is welcome to receive Holy Communion, and the care of the poor and disenfranchised is a priority, not a luxury granted by the very wealthy.  A world in which all loving relationships that are honored by God, are also revered and celebrated by everyone.  A worldwide community where every culture, religion, sexual orientation, gender, gender expression/identity, race and person is extended the most generous of welcomes and invited to the table of inclusion, reconciliation and healing.  It is the truth that sets captives free, and gives sight to those who are blinded by greed, prejudice, violence, oppression and inequality. 

As Christians, we are called to be disciples of Christ by recognizing the sacred value of all persons, even those who are different from ourselves.  No person is a matter of "property".  The cry for everyone to have an opportunity at the necessities of life, is answered by Jesus Christ, by calling his followers to do more than volunteer our time and energy to directly helping those in need.  But, also by doing our part to change the corrupted system that gives permission for such injustices to be spread and empowered.

As we remember Fredrick Douglass and his work to free himself and others, let us also recommit ourselves to the establishment of God's reign through our devotion to God's work in our time.  There is a place in the field and at the table for everyone to participate and partake. 

The next two questions in our mind should be; who are we?  Whom are we prepared to invite?


Prayers

Almighty God, whose truth makes us free: We bless your Name for the witness of Fredrick Douglass, whose impassioned and reasonable speech moved the hearts of a president and a people to a deeper obedience to Christ.  Strengthen us also to be outspoken on behalf of those in captivity and tribulation, continuing in the Word of Jesus Christ our Liberator; who with you and the Holy Spirit dwells in glory everlasting. Amen.  (Holy Women, Holy Men, Celebrating the Saints, p. 233)

O God, who before the passion of your only-begotten Son
revealed his glory upon the holy mountain: Grant to us that
we, beholding by faith the light of his countenance, may be
strengthened to bear our cross, and be changed into his
likeness from glory to glory; through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God,
for ever and ever. Amen. (Last Sunday after the Epiphany, Book of Common Prayer, p. 217).


O God, you made us in your own image and redeemed us
through Jesus your Son: Look with compassion on the whole
human family; take away the arrogance and hatred which
infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us;
unite us in bonds of love; and work through our struggle and
confusion to accomplish your purposes on earth; that, in
your good time, all nations and races may serve you in
harmony around your heavenly throne; through Jesus Christ
our Lord. Amen.  (Prayer for the Human Family, Book of Common Prayer, p. 815).

Carefully Counting Our Costs

Luke 14:25-35 (NRSV)

Now large crowds were traveling with Jesus; and he turned and said to them, 'Whoever comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and even life itself, cannot be my disciple. Whoever does not carry the cross and follow me cannot be my disciple. For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not first sit down and estimate the cost, to see whether he has enough to complete it? Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who see it will begin to ridicule him, saying, "This fellow began to build and was not able to finish." Or what king, going out to wage war against another king, will not sit down first and consider whether he is able with ten thousand to oppose the one who comes against him with twenty thousand? If he cannot, then, while the other is still far away, he sends a delegation and asks for the terms of peace. So therefore, none of you can become my disciple if you do not give up all your possessions. 'Salt is good; but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored? It is fit neither for the soil nor for the manure pile; they throw it away. Let anyone with ears to hear listen!' 

Some careful thinking is important with this Gospel reading.  Jesus is not saying here that we are to not love our parents, sisters, brothers and others who are important to us.  Jesus is calling those who have chosen to follow him to consider carefully the cost of being a disciple.  It is costly to commit one's life to God.

Among the reasons I like to be careful with this Gospel is because this is one of those Bible passages that gets used by fundamentalist and evangelical Christians against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning and queer (LGBTQ) people.  Preachers who have good intentions, yet use them to form religious based bigotry towards LGBTQ people would suggest that if an LGBTQ person does not "give up" who they are and how they love other people, well then they just have not accurately counted the cost of discipleship.  This kind of manipulation is what drives LGBTQ youth and people away from Christianity and the Church and that is not what this blog is about.   This Blog is about how we can embrace LGBTQ people in all of our diversity, using the Gospels or other Bible readings from the Lectionary of the Daily Office or Eucharistic Liturgy in the Episcopal Church as our tool and guide.   

I was asked in a comment that was submitted about yesterday's Blog of why would I care if the Bible really does condemn homosexuality?  I deleted that comment.  This Blog is not a place to challenge or debate, at least not a commentator.  I created this Blog because of how the Bible is so often used, misused and abused to abuse LGBTQ people.  I started writing this Blog over a year ago to show how the Bible especially the Gospel Narratives are really about welcoming and embracing LGBTQ people.  They do challenge all of us when we fail to be inclusive.  Mostly they challenge all of us to consider carefully what we do with this marvelous gift of Faith in terms of embracing others who are marginalized and stigmatized by society and the Church.  That is why comments that are more about debating a meaning and pushing someone's agenda will be deleted.  I want LGBTQ people to visit here and find some solace and even some motivation from what I write here.  


When I think of counting the cost of our discipleship for LGBTQ people, I think of coming out and pursuing the life we were created to live.   Religious based bigotry that is created by stereotyping and misinformation about sexual orientation and/or gender expression/identity suggests that being LGBTQ can never be in line with being Christian.  Such suggestions are not only not based in Scripture, they are destructive to people whom God loves.  A great reference to better understanding the effects of religious based bigotry can be found at Faith in America. 

Religion-based bigotry is the foundation of anti-gay attitudes in our society and in the minds of a majority of Americans, particularly persons of faith.  The term religion-based bigotry was coined because it best fits the description of the problem. The term religion-based bigotry encompasses the attitudes of prejudice, hostility or discrimination that are falsely justified by religious teachings or belief. We will never see full and equal rights unless we address the root of people’s anti-gay attitude.

Religion-based bigotry is not synonymous with bigotry. It is a uniquely vile form of bigotry as the prejudice, hostility and discrimination behind the words are given a moral stamp of approval.
Faith in America’s core message is that religious-based condemnation and rejection of LGBT people cause great harm to LGBT individuals and our society.

We have learned that when we focus on the harms caused by religious hostility toward gay people – its destructive role in the lives of gay and lesbian Americans and explaining that being gay is not a lifestyle choice but is how you are born– persons of faith can understand why religion must no longer be misused to justify hostile attitudes and actions toward LGBT people. These stories, told by the people who have been the subject of or witness to religion-based bigotry serve as a powerful tool to begin changing the hearts and minds of persons of faith.

When LGBTQ people come out and live out our love in healthy relationships we are choosing to embrace the cross that Jesus is talking about.  Many LGBTQ people when we come out loose communications with our families, church communities and so on and so forth.  In so doing we are examples of what it means to be a Christian.  Living openly and honestly who we are and counting all of the costs before taking that step to come out, is exactly the kind of thing Jesus is talking about in this Gospel.  One of the great lines from The Sound of Music is when the Reverend Mother told Maria Von-Trap: "You have to live the life you were born to live."  LGBTQ people have to live the lives that we were born to live, loving people the way we were created to live.  We will face the cross of struggling to gain our equal rights.  We will be fighting the good fight of being fully included in churches and other houses of worship.   We will face scrutiny for our decision to come out and live.  Religious based bigotry is a great evil.  LGBTQ people and our allies do have the power together to stand up against such religious based bigotry by sharing our stories.   Through the sharing of our stories, we can help people understand that their fears are groundless and therefore their prejudice also has no ground.

These costs are expensive, but counting them carefully is important.  We like all who choose to follow Jesus are called to embrace the cross.   We are being prompted by the Holy Spirit to consider carefully how to answer what she is calling us to.   We will want to think and respond truthfully.   But we will also want to be aware that the choices we make whether correct or not so correct, in no way means that God is not working in and through our lives.  Each person makes our choices differently for different reasons.  God's unconditional love and mercy are always willing to help us through the process of counting the costs and making decisions. 

O God, whose blessed Son came into the world that he might destroy the works of the devil and make us children of God and heirs of eternal life: Grant that, having this hope, we may purify ourselves as he is pure; that, when he comes again with power and great glory, we may be made like him in his eternal and glorious kingdom; where he lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. (Proper 27, Book of Common Prayer, page 236).

Almighty and everlasting God, by whose Spirit the whole body of your faithful people is governed and sanctified: Receive our supplications and prayers which we offer before you for all members of your holy Church, that in their vocation and ministry they may truly and devoutly serve you; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen. (Prayer for Mission, Book of Common Prayer, page 100).

O God, you made us in your own image and redeemed us through Jesus your Son: Look with compassion on the whole human family; take away the arrogance and hatred which infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us; unite us in bonds of love; and work through our struggle and confusion to accomplish your purposes on earth; that, in your good time, all nations and races may serve you in harmony around your heavenly throne; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. (Prayer for the Human Family, Book of Common Prayer, page 815).

Fifteenth Sunday After Pentecost: The Benefit/Cost Analysis of Discipleship

Last night on Facebook I enjoyed a conversation with a friend about the subject of religion.  The friend I am speaking of says that he doesn't believe.  Through out the conversation as I carefully wrote about my own story and beliefs the individual who started the conversation demonstrated a kindness and forwardness that I thought was exemplary.  As we got to the end of our exchange I wrote that I found him to have more virtue in spite of the fact that he was not a believer than many devout believers.  

One of the important things to consider about Christianity is that no matter where we are on our faith journey, Jesus Christ welcomes everyone.  I am borrowing some of that from the statement that belongs to St. Mark's Episcopal Cathedral in Minneapolis. Our desire to be part of the Christian faith challenges all of us to make room for everyone who might wish to get closer to God, as well as those who do not wish for whatever reason. 

Today's Bible readings challenge us to do a benefit/cost analysis of discipleship.  

Luke 14:25-33 (NRSV)

Now large crowds were traveling with Jesus; and he turned and said to them, "Whoever comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and even life itself, cannot be my disciple. Whoever does not carry the cross and follow me cannot be my disciple. For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not first sit down and estimate the cost, to see whether he has enough to complete it? Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who see it will begin to ridicule him, saying, `This fellow began to build and was not able to finish.' Or what king, going out to wage war against another king, will not sit down first and consider whether he is able with ten thousand to oppose the one who comes against him with twenty thousand? If he cannot, then, while the other is still far away, he sends a delegation and asks for the terms of peace. So therefore, none of you can become my disciple if you do not give up all your possessions."

It seems quite disturbing to hear Jesus suggesting that we should hate our father, mother, wife, husband, partner, brother, sister or children.  The remark that Jesus makes here is one that is all too familiar to those of us who come out as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered, questioning or queer people.  Out in Scripture gives some examples of how this can be applied to us.

Anyone who has come out as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender knows how costly that can be. Friends and family may ask, "How can you do this to us? How can you be so selfish? How can you turn your back on the life we'd all hoped for?"

People who came out as followers of Jesus often got the same reaction. They were accused of despising, even hating their friends and family. Jesus seems to confirm everybody's worst suspicions: "Whoever comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and even life itself, cannot be my disciple" (Luke 14:26). We suspect this is a case of hyperbole, an attention-getting overstatement. But hyperbole or not, it doesn't blunt the harsh reality that if we are to be true to the life we were meant to have, if we are to choose life (Deuteronomy 30:19), people who can't deal with it, even those we love, are likely to call us hateful. Coming out is costly. It's going against the grain, and we shouldn't be surprised at the degree of resistance we encounter.

Most of us before we came out spent a significant amount of time being scared to death of the reaction of our parents once they have been told.  Many LGBTQ people do experience total isolation and abandonment from their families.  Others are forced to choose to distance ourselves because every meeting with our families usually includes some shaming comment about our sexual orientation and/or gender identity/expression.  Our choice to seek our true lives as we are, is one way that we do a benefit/cost analysis of being a true disciple of Jesus.  We cannot truly follow Jesus if we are not honest with God and ourselves about who we are and/or who and how we love others.  We have to be willing to make the journey of choosing to follow Jesus as LGBTQ people, no matter how much that might cost us.  In many situations, it will cost us a lot.

A look at the life of Harvey Milk, the martyred San Francisco City Supervisor.  Milk was a man who knew that the only way to begin a movement towards equal rights for LGBTQ people across the country, was to sacrifice himself and move the City of San Francisco to enact a gay rights ordinance.  His work eventually led him to lead voter opposition against the Brigg's Initiative Proposition 6 that would give California school districts the power to fire teachers who were known homosexuals.   Milk may have been a believer in God, or he might not have been.  Nevertheless Milk put himself out there and did what he had to do for the benefit of others and himself. Milk paid the price of his life for his accomplishments.  Milk in his own way demonstrated the Gospel message of giving up oneself for the benefit of others.

Another shining example would be John Fortunato who is the author of Embracing the Exile.   Bishop Gene Robinson writes about John's witness to his faith in his book "In the Eye of the Storm".

"John went through a bruising, nasty, and very public ordeal when he and his partner tried to have their relationship blessed in their local Episcopal parish--many years before such things were publicly contemplated.  He endured all the hatred and vitriol you might expect that such an event would incur in thr world and church of the 1980's

In the opening and closing chapters of his book, he describes abuse heaped on him by Christians and non-Christians alike for loving another man and wanting the church's blessing on their relationship.  Sitting alone in the dark, he had a vision. Or was it his imagination? Or an epiphany?  Whatever it was, God was right there.  John describes it this way:

I was saying,  "You know, sometimes I think they're right, that being gay and loving another man is wrong."  God smiled and said quietly, "How can love be wrong?  It all comes from me."

   Sometimes, I just want to bury that part of me," I said, "Just pretend it isn't real."

   "But I made you whole," God replied.  "You are one as I am one.  I made you in my image."

    "Your church out there says that you don't love me. They say I'm lost, damned to hell."

    "You're my son," God said in a way both gentle and yet so firm that there could be no doubt of his genuineness.

   "Nothing can separate you from my love...."

   "What do I do with them?"

   And in the same calm voice God said, "I've given you gifts.  Share them.  I've given  you light.  Brighten the world.  I empower you with love.  Love them."

   "Love them? What are you trying to do to me?  Can't you see? They call my light darkness! They call my love perverted! They call my gifts corruption! What the hell are you asking me to do?"

  "Love them anyway," he said.  "Love them anyway."

  "Love them anyway?" I moaned.  "But how?"

  "You must also speak your pain and affirm the wholeness I've made you to be when they assail it.  You must protest when you are treated less than a child of mine.  You must go out and teach them.  Help them to know of their dependence on me for all that they really are, and of their helplessness without me... And assure them by word and work and example that my love is boundless, and that I am with them always."

  "You know they won't listen to me,"  I said with resignation.  "They'll despise me.  They'll call me a heretic and laugh me to scorn.  They'll persecute and torment me.  They'll try to destroy me.  You know they will, don't you."

  [God's] radiant face saddened.  And then God said softly, "Oh yes.  I know.  How well I know."  

  Then two strong, motherly arms reached out and drew me close to the bosom of all that is. And I was just there. Just being.  Enveloped in being.

  And we wept.

  For Joy. (Pages 12-14 of In the Eye of the Storm, taken from pages15-16 and 126-127 of Embracing the Exile).

Today's Psalm is 139.  God knows all of us and how we are put together.   There is nothing about any of us that God does not love and want for us to share for the benefit of the Reign of God here to help others find their way to God.  Psalm 139: 14 reads: "I will praise you, Lord, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made."

Through out our readings today, we are called upon to examine the benefits and the cost of what being a disciple of Jesus Christ means.  If we are in a relationship it means being willing to sacrifice anything and everything to share our life and love with that person.  We do that, because Jesus is present in the life of our spouse, partner, boy/girl friend, wife, husband etc.  As we understand from Deuteronomy 30: 15-20 the choice to love God and our neighbors is a life-giving choice.  Yet, many Christians still choose to love just about any body except LGBTQ people or Islamic people.  In many congregations people of color are not welcome, people from Indigenous Communities are only welcome if they will abandon what being a Native American to their people means.  This is very contrary to the love of God who commands us to love our neighbors as ourselves.  If we are not honest about ourselves and who or how we love others, we will not be free to love, because there will always be something that prevents us from counting the cost to ourselves and being willing to hand it over.

The benefit/cost analysis of discipleship means looking at and being willing to carry our crosses.   It means struggling to accept that our crosses as learning and understanding  ourselves and our relationships to others, by accepting ourselves and others as we are.  For LGBTQ Christians it means being willing to be who we are, and to love others with the same unconditional and all inclusive love with which God loves us, as painful as that love can be at times.  We need to pray for that grace to forgive those who hurt us even as we face the pain of how difficult forgiving those people are.  God is not an angry, vengeful God.  God is merciful, loving and wants to heal us and others so that all of us are considering the benefits and costs of our discipleship.

May God continue to bless us all as we move forward in our lives of faith and service of God and one another. 

Grant us, O Lord, to trust in you with all our hearts; for, as you always resist the proud who confide in their own strength, so you never forsake those who make their boast of your mercy; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen. (Proper 18, Book of Common Prayer, Page 233).

Speak to us, O God,
        through our loves and through our lives;
        give us courage to choose what brings life
        to us and others around us,
        even when many deride us.
    Form us into communities founded on love, not duty.
    Amen.  (Prayerfully Out in Scripture).


When Christ was lifted, from the earth,
his arms stretched out above 
though every culture, every birth,
to draw an answering love.

Still east and west his love extends 
and always, near or far,
he calls and claims us as his friends
and loves us as we are.

Where generations, class, or race,
divide us to our shame,
he sees not labels but a face,
A person, and a name.

Thus freely loved, though fully known,
may I in Christ be free
to welcome and accept his own
as Christ accepted me. (Hymn 603, Hymnal 1982).