The Scripture readings for this time of the year become very dark. They are full of apocalyptic language. The readings start speaking of the end times. They speak of a world falling apart and destruction of what we've always known. The readings can be very frightening. For this reason, we need to be very attentive to what Jesus is saying to us, but be very careful about not taking what is said in the Scriptures too literally.
Ever since I became interested in the Christian religion, I have noticed how there is always some preacher who gives a fear driven sermon about the end times and how people better get themselves right with God. When I was a student at Eastern Nazarene College we had two yearly weeks of revival meetings. Each of those weeks always seem to end with one fire, hell and brimstone sermon about the end times. The young students would come to the prayer altar in record numbers crying for their life for all the guilt that had been poured into their hearts. I do not believe that this is the apocalyptic message that Jesus Christ wants his follower to absorb. It again is the Bible very poorly translated and used as a weapon in inappropriate ways.
Given all that is happening in the world with the wars in Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, the rise of nuclear weapons in Iran, the massive shooting at Fort Hood, Texas and the awful debate over health care our planet is a very scary place. Things sound exactly like what Jesus is talking about in today's Gospel of Mark 13:1-8. We can become discouraged by what we are seeing around us. My partner Jason and I just participated in an equality march for LGBT rights in Minneapolis today. And as we were marching down Washington Ave a man in a car pulled over and waived his Bible at us. The attitude that came from the man was one of condemnation and discrimination.
Among the things I think we need to do while we are facing such difficulties in our day in age is to never take our eyes and minds off of Jesus Christ. The old hymn "Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus" with it's wonderful refrain says so beautifully: "Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look into his wonderful face. And the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of God's glory and grace." This hymn tells us to look away from the things on earth and see the face of Jesus in every person, in every situation and through every difficulty and tragedy we experience. Turning our eyes upon Jesus is not just for some act of Spiritual comfort though that is good, but to help us see how Jesus is calling us to a conversion of heart and action. In the light of God's grace we can learn to see people of different religions, races, nationalities, sexual orientations and/or gender expressions/identities, challenges as people whom God has created and loves. Even that situation that feels like the world is just falling apart in our face is a situation that God can reach into with God's grace and power in the Holy Spirit and help us to find peace.
All too often the apocalyptic Scriptures have been used to converthomosexuals. Preachers love to use such opportunities to tell lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered people that our sexual and romantic lives are dirty, an abomination and outside of God's grace. The campaign against Marriage Equality in the great State of Maine just used the apocalyptic Scriptures to scare entire groups of people into taking away the civil rights of LGBT people to legally marry. The campaign of fear and ignorance gained momentum and the real campaign of equality, freedom and the Gospel of Jesus Christ took the back seat. Just this past week the Catholic Archdiocese of Washington DC bullied the City Council into saying that they are going to discontinue services to the poor and homeless if the City passes their same-sex marriage law. Using the Scriptures and the morals of certain Religious organizations to bully and manipulate is just not what the Gospel of Jesus Christ is about.
As the Church year comes to it's close, I think we have to ask ourselves about our relationship with God. I also think we have to ask ourselves about our relationships with all of God's people. If we are content with allowing ourselves to marginalize and stigmatize any person or group of people and leave them outside of the doors of the Church either in ministry, leadership or just in need of help, then I think we have to ask ourselves, what are we in fact doing as Christians? When we hear of Christian fathers chastising their gay children with what the Bible says, we need to ask what are Christians learning in their churches anyway? Are they really learning charity, faith and belief in a God of unconditional love?
When the Church and the world seeks to destroy our own peace through violence, destructive and abusive spirituality, weapons of mass destruction we need to come back to Jesus and spend some time asking him to embrace us with his unconditional and all encompassing love. Jesus invites us to embrace ourselves and others so that we may find peace in the midst of a world that is just looking to destroy our peace. God's peace is offered to everyone and anyone. It is not limited by the attitudes of preachers, Bishops or politicians. God's love and peace is there no matter who might try to take it from us.
Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love: So mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all peoples may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace, as children of one God; to whom be dominion and glory, now and forever. Amen. (Book of Common Prayer, #4 For Peace, Page 815).War
Showing posts with label Kingdom of Christ. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Kingdom of Christ. Show all posts
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Whoever Does for The Least Does for Me
Today the Church remembers St. Martin of Tours. St. Martin is most remembered because one day he was riding his horse on a long cold road. Suddenly he came upon a poor man who was naked. St. Martin tore half of his robe and gave it to the poor naked man. Later that night St. Martin had a vision of Jesus Christ wearing the other half of his robe.
St. Martin personifies the teaching of Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew chapter 25: 31 to 46. Jesus was teaching about feeding the hungry, giving drink to the thirsty, visiting the sick, meeting the stranger and that "just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me." (Verse 40).
We continue to live in a society where most of us, including Christians are way too comfortable with how much we benefit at the expense of those who are poor, naked, without family and friends or health insurance. Many Caucasian, straight, educated and healthy males benefit every day at the expense of those who are not Caucasian, who are lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered, who are not educated or without good health and/or the means to get well. We develop an attitude of apathy for people who would otherwise inconvenience us. The problem with this attitude is the person who might be inconveniencing us most, is Jesus himself.
I read a very moving story from Bishop Gene Robinson's Book: "In the Eye of the Storm".
"There was a young seminarian who worked one summer with an old priest at a homeless shelter where they had a noontime feeding program. On this particular day, there was an unusually large number of people who came to be fed. The priest and the seminarian were just exhausted--it was nearly three o' clock before the last person left. The priest asked the seminarian to close the front door, thinking that this long and difficult day was about to be over, he saw yet one more homeless man making his way up the walk. In his exhausted state, thinking he had no energy left to give, he exclaimed, "Jesus Christ!"
And the old priest remarked: "It just might be." (Page 124).
How is Jesus coming to us and asking us to feed and cloth him? In whom is Jesus coming to us in the stranger asking to be welcomed? Are we open to serving Jesus by helping our sisters and brothers in need?
How can this message be related to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered people? There are lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered people who come to Christians every day, looking for acceptance, compassion, to be fed with the food of love and understanding. There are LGBT and questioning youth who are homeless because they have been kicked out of their homes. A significant number of youth suicides every year are related to LGBT and questioning youth. Are Christians concerned that LGBT sisters and brothers are being turned away or treated with contempt? Do Christians understand that by turning LGBT individuals away from the Church, they are also turning Jesus himself away?
If Jesus were to come to many Christian churches and tell someone that he is gay, would Pastors tell Jesus that he should do all that he can to change his orientation or he will go to hell? Unfortunately, this is exactly what is happening to many LGBT individuals who come to the Church. This is how Jesus is being treated by many Christian leaders. When Jesus comes as a confused youth stranger wondering what his sexuality is, he is being told not to love someone of the same sex. Jesus is being told to go to an ex-gay ministry to change his sexual orientation. Jesus is being sent away angry and confused. This is what is happening to LGBT and questioning people who come to many in the Christian Church. And as it was done to the least, so it was done to Jesus. Are Christians really concerned about that?
As America continues to work through the health care reform debate. The issue has gone further and further away from the people who need the health care reform. The health care debate has now become about what political leaders can earn the money paid to them by the wealthy health insurance companies. And so I have to ask the question: Who would Jesus take money from so that others could not have adequate health care coverage?
Today as we remember St. Martin of Tours I think we need to ask ourselves if we are honestly concerned about Jesus and serving him in our sisters and brothers? Are we welcoming Jesus as he comes to us or are we wanting him to be as we would want him to be? When LGBT people come to the Church and ask to be accepted, loved and affirmed, are we seeing Jesus Christ in them?
Christian love is simply admiration of Christ when we do not allow the needs of our sisters and brothers to inconvenience us. When we do not allow our hearts to be moved by the tears and pain of those who come to the Church, the love of Jesus Christ has yet to go from the head to the heart. Our Eucharist has yet to transform us in to the Body of Christ when we disregard Jesus in the poor, the marginalized and unusual of society. The Gospel remains just a story on a page if we do not allow Jesus Christ to move us from our comfort to where our love for Jesus becomes action for our sisters and brothers.
Almighty and most merciful God, we remember before you all poor and neglected persons whom it would be easy for us to forget; the homeless and the destitute, the old and the sick, and all who have none to care for them. Help us to heal those who are broken in body or spirit, and to turn their sorrow into joy. Grant this, Father, for the love of your Son, who for our sake became poor, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. (Book of Common Prayer #35 for the Poor and Neglected, Page 826).
St. Martin personifies the teaching of Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew chapter 25: 31 to 46. Jesus was teaching about feeding the hungry, giving drink to the thirsty, visiting the sick, meeting the stranger and that "just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me." (Verse 40).
We continue to live in a society where most of us, including Christians are way too comfortable with how much we benefit at the expense of those who are poor, naked, without family and friends or health insurance. Many Caucasian, straight, educated and healthy males benefit every day at the expense of those who are not Caucasian, who are lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered, who are not educated or without good health and/or the means to get well. We develop an attitude of apathy for people who would otherwise inconvenience us. The problem with this attitude is the person who might be inconveniencing us most, is Jesus himself.
I read a very moving story from Bishop Gene Robinson's Book: "In the Eye of the Storm".
"There was a young seminarian who worked one summer with an old priest at a homeless shelter where they had a noontime feeding program. On this particular day, there was an unusually large number of people who came to be fed. The priest and the seminarian were just exhausted--it was nearly three o' clock before the last person left. The priest asked the seminarian to close the front door, thinking that this long and difficult day was about to be over, he saw yet one more homeless man making his way up the walk. In his exhausted state, thinking he had no energy left to give, he exclaimed, "Jesus Christ!"
And the old priest remarked: "It just might be." (Page 124).
How is Jesus coming to us and asking us to feed and cloth him? In whom is Jesus coming to us in the stranger asking to be welcomed? Are we open to serving Jesus by helping our sisters and brothers in need?
How can this message be related to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered people? There are lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered people who come to Christians every day, looking for acceptance, compassion, to be fed with the food of love and understanding. There are LGBT and questioning youth who are homeless because they have been kicked out of their homes. A significant number of youth suicides every year are related to LGBT and questioning youth. Are Christians concerned that LGBT sisters and brothers are being turned away or treated with contempt? Do Christians understand that by turning LGBT individuals away from the Church, they are also turning Jesus himself away?
If Jesus were to come to many Christian churches and tell someone that he is gay, would Pastors tell Jesus that he should do all that he can to change his orientation or he will go to hell? Unfortunately, this is exactly what is happening to many LGBT individuals who come to the Church. This is how Jesus is being treated by many Christian leaders. When Jesus comes as a confused youth stranger wondering what his sexuality is, he is being told not to love someone of the same sex. Jesus is being told to go to an ex-gay ministry to change his sexual orientation. Jesus is being sent away angry and confused. This is what is happening to LGBT and questioning people who come to many in the Christian Church. And as it was done to the least, so it was done to Jesus. Are Christians really concerned about that?
As America continues to work through the health care reform debate. The issue has gone further and further away from the people who need the health care reform. The health care debate has now become about what political leaders can earn the money paid to them by the wealthy health insurance companies. And so I have to ask the question: Who would Jesus take money from so that others could not have adequate health care coverage?
Today as we remember St. Martin of Tours I think we need to ask ourselves if we are honestly concerned about Jesus and serving him in our sisters and brothers? Are we welcoming Jesus as he comes to us or are we wanting him to be as we would want him to be? When LGBT people come to the Church and ask to be accepted, loved and affirmed, are we seeing Jesus Christ in them?
Christian love is simply admiration of Christ when we do not allow the needs of our sisters and brothers to inconvenience us. When we do not allow our hearts to be moved by the tears and pain of those who come to the Church, the love of Jesus Christ has yet to go from the head to the heart. Our Eucharist has yet to transform us in to the Body of Christ when we disregard Jesus in the poor, the marginalized and unusual of society. The Gospel remains just a story on a page if we do not allow Jesus Christ to move us from our comfort to where our love for Jesus becomes action for our sisters and brothers.
Almighty and most merciful God, we remember before you all poor and neglected persons whom it would be easy for us to forget; the homeless and the destitute, the old and the sick, and all who have none to care for them. Help us to heal those who are broken in body or spirit, and to turn their sorrow into joy. Grant this, Father, for the love of your Son, who for our sake became poor, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. (Book of Common Prayer #35 for the Poor and Neglected, Page 826).
Monday, November 9, 2009
What Comes From Our Hearts?
Jesus said: "Do you not see that whatever goes into the mouth enters the stomach and goes out into the sewer? But what comes out of the mouth proceeds from the heart, and this is what defiles." (Matthew 15:17,18).
Well isn't this an interesting way to begin the week! Jesus starts us off by talking about something going into the mouth, into the stomach and into the toilet. Sounds like some dirty talk to me. Yet, Jesus has the nerve to talk about what comes out of the mouth as coming from the heart. Isn't Jesus sounding just a bit harsh? Perhaps we need to think about what is coming out of the mouth of God's perfect revelation and look at what is in our hearts that God knows all too well.
One of the greatest Priests I ever knew taught me during a Confession that God knows the intentions of our hearts better than anyone else. This is one reason why Scripture tends to be like that "two edged sword" spoken of in Hebrews 3: 12-14. In verse 12 it says: "it is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart." God who is the Creator of the human heart knows what is there far more than we ourselves do at times. It is our hearts that live in relationship with God. It is also our hearts that can be wounded, broken, and sometimes questions God when we do not understand what God is doing. Our hearts feel the effects of rejection, hate and prejudice. But our hearts can also make us oh, so loving, welcoming and warm. Often our actions are dictated by what is in our hearts. Sometimes we act contrary to what is in our hearts. But the One who really knows what is there is God.
This is why every Christian every day needs to take that journey into their hearts with God and talk with God about what is there. Sometimes what is there is very stubborn and uncharitable. Letting God see that is a good thing. God is often like the physician that's come to help us. Rather than welcome God there and allow God to do God's work, if it is too painful for us to face even with God, we can easily shut God out and make life more difficult on ourselves.
I think sometimes Christians want to hear only what they want to hear from other people. And if they hear something that is out of touch with their understanding of Scripture they make judgments about where the heart of someone else is.
As a man who is gay, an Episcopalian, a Christian, I join those in the LGBT Community in being so very disturbed and hurt by Christian Fundamentalists who continue their Spiritual violence towards LGBT individuals. Last Friday night I was very disappointed in an article I read about Pastor Gary Cass who is of the so-called "Christian Anti-Defamation Commission". Pastor Cass has encouraged Evangelical Pastors to "insight hate-crimes" to see if the Matthew Shepard Hate Crimes Bill will actually be used to prosecute Pastors for speaking out against homosexuality. I consider this to be one of those things that is coming from the "heart" that is malicious. To be putting LGBT people in the place of being afraid of a potential hate crime committed against them just to prove a point is unacceptable. Do you think this could be an example of what Jesus was saying about "what comes from the heart"?
Put this example in comparison to the work of Philip and Randi Reitan who with their son Jake, who have helped put together the movie: "For the Bible Tells Me So". I think we can see an amazing contrast between the two. In this excellent movie we hear the stories of people like Bishop Gene Robinson or the daughter of former U.S. Representative Dick Gephardt and so many more along with their families struggling with what the Bible has said over the years about homosexuality. In this magnificent documentary the viewers can hear the painful stories of families and children coming out and loving each other as they are. "For the Bible Tells Me So" looks into the many mis-translated stories in the Bible that are used as the "clobber passages" about homosexuality. These include Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19), Do not lie with men as you do women in Leviticus 18:22 and 20: 13. The movie does an excellent job of examining the real meaning behind Romans 1:21-28. But one of the most wonderful parts of this documentary is the stories of how Parents, Pastors, whole churches have opened their hearts and minds to a new understanding of what the Scriptures mean about homosexuality. Yet, through out the film we also see the malicious talk of many Protestant Evangelicals and Roman Catholic leaders condemning homosexual individuals and activities.
As we meditate on these two examples, I think we have to ask ourselves the question again and again, what is coming from our hearts? I heard an individual just last night say that she pays enough for her own health insurance, why should she pay more for the health care of an illegal immigrant? When I hear comments like that, I have to ask the question, have Christians really listened to Jesus when he asked the question: "Who is my neighbor?" And what about "I was a stranger and you took me in"? How about: "I was sick and you helped me" ? And in the same place Jesus said: "Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me." (See Matthew 25: 31 to 46). From these I have to ask the question: What illegal immigrant would Jesus refuse health care to? What comes from our hearts?
What is in our hearts? I hope what is in our hearts is an honest call of God for conversion. I hope what is in our hearts is a desire to change our attitudes towards people who are different than ourselves. I hope that what comes out of the hearts of Christians in America and world wide is a renewed understanding of love for our neighbors including homosexuals, bisexuals and transgendered persons. I hope what God finds in our hearts is a willingness to affirm the need for everyone to have good health care. I hope what is in our hearts and what comes out is a real understanding of caring for the poor, those with HIV/AIDS and all kinds of sexually transmitted diseases. I hope what we find in our hearts and what comes out of our mouths is a real call to our Representatives, Senators and our President to make equal rights for LGBT people a priority in regards to repealing Don't Ask, Don't Tell, the repealing of the Defense of Marriage Act and the passing of an inclusive Employment-Non Discrimination Act. I hope that in our hearts we might call the Christian Anti-Defamation Commission to not consider harming LGBT individuals through inciting hate crimes. I hope that Christians who harbor attitudes of hate for LGBT individuals might hear the call of God to learn to love, accept and affirm the marginalized of society and the Church.
Likewise, it is the call of LGBT Christians and all people of good will to be in dialogue with those who have attitudes against LGBT individuals. We just never know when something someone says or does will change an attitude or affect an alteration of people. Philip and Randi Reitan shared with our group on Saturday night that For the Bible Tells Me So has already begun to work on the hearts of people connected with Focus on the Family. Just think of what our true stories shared in love can do to change others.
O God, you made us in your image and redeemed us through Jesus your Son; take away the arrogance and hatred which infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us; unite us in the bonds of love; and work through our struggle and confusion to accomplish your purpose 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).
Well isn't this an interesting way to begin the week! Jesus starts us off by talking about something going into the mouth, into the stomach and into the toilet. Sounds like some dirty talk to me. Yet, Jesus has the nerve to talk about what comes out of the mouth as coming from the heart. Isn't Jesus sounding just a bit harsh? Perhaps we need to think about what is coming out of the mouth of God's perfect revelation and look at what is in our hearts that God knows all too well.
One of the greatest Priests I ever knew taught me during a Confession that God knows the intentions of our hearts better than anyone else. This is one reason why Scripture tends to be like that "two edged sword" spoken of in Hebrews 3: 12-14. In verse 12 it says: "it is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart." God who is the Creator of the human heart knows what is there far more than we ourselves do at times. It is our hearts that live in relationship with God. It is also our hearts that can be wounded, broken, and sometimes questions God when we do not understand what God is doing. Our hearts feel the effects of rejection, hate and prejudice. But our hearts can also make us oh, so loving, welcoming and warm. Often our actions are dictated by what is in our hearts. Sometimes we act contrary to what is in our hearts. But the One who really knows what is there is God.
This is why every Christian every day needs to take that journey into their hearts with God and talk with God about what is there. Sometimes what is there is very stubborn and uncharitable. Letting God see that is a good thing. God is often like the physician that's come to help us. Rather than welcome God there and allow God to do God's work, if it is too painful for us to face even with God, we can easily shut God out and make life more difficult on ourselves.
I think sometimes Christians want to hear only what they want to hear from other people. And if they hear something that is out of touch with their understanding of Scripture they make judgments about where the heart of someone else is.
As a man who is gay, an Episcopalian, a Christian, I join those in the LGBT Community in being so very disturbed and hurt by Christian Fundamentalists who continue their Spiritual violence towards LGBT individuals. Last Friday night I was very disappointed in an article I read about Pastor Gary Cass who is of the so-called "Christian Anti-Defamation Commission". Pastor Cass has encouraged Evangelical Pastors to "insight hate-crimes" to see if the Matthew Shepard Hate Crimes Bill will actually be used to prosecute Pastors for speaking out against homosexuality. I consider this to be one of those things that is coming from the "heart" that is malicious. To be putting LGBT people in the place of being afraid of a potential hate crime committed against them just to prove a point is unacceptable. Do you think this could be an example of what Jesus was saying about "what comes from the heart"?
Put this example in comparison to the work of Philip and Randi Reitan who with their son Jake, who have helped put together the movie: "For the Bible Tells Me So". I think we can see an amazing contrast between the two. In this excellent movie we hear the stories of people like Bishop Gene Robinson or the daughter of former U.S. Representative Dick Gephardt and so many more along with their families struggling with what the Bible has said over the years about homosexuality. In this magnificent documentary the viewers can hear the painful stories of families and children coming out and loving each other as they are. "For the Bible Tells Me So" looks into the many mis-translated stories in the Bible that are used as the "clobber passages" about homosexuality. These include Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19), Do not lie with men as you do women in Leviticus 18:22 and 20: 13. The movie does an excellent job of examining the real meaning behind Romans 1:21-28. But one of the most wonderful parts of this documentary is the stories of how Parents, Pastors, whole churches have opened their hearts and minds to a new understanding of what the Scriptures mean about homosexuality. Yet, through out the film we also see the malicious talk of many Protestant Evangelicals and Roman Catholic leaders condemning homosexual individuals and activities.
As we meditate on these two examples, I think we have to ask ourselves the question again and again, what is coming from our hearts? I heard an individual just last night say that she pays enough for her own health insurance, why should she pay more for the health care of an illegal immigrant? When I hear comments like that, I have to ask the question, have Christians really listened to Jesus when he asked the question: "Who is my neighbor?" And what about "I was a stranger and you took me in"? How about: "I was sick and you helped me" ? And in the same place Jesus said: "Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me." (See Matthew 25: 31 to 46). From these I have to ask the question: What illegal immigrant would Jesus refuse health care to? What comes from our hearts?
What is in our hearts? I hope what is in our hearts is an honest call of God for conversion. I hope what is in our hearts is a desire to change our attitudes towards people who are different than ourselves. I hope that what comes out of the hearts of Christians in America and world wide is a renewed understanding of love for our neighbors including homosexuals, bisexuals and transgendered persons. I hope what God finds in our hearts is a willingness to affirm the need for everyone to have good health care. I hope what is in our hearts and what comes out is a real understanding of caring for the poor, those with HIV/AIDS and all kinds of sexually transmitted diseases. I hope what we find in our hearts and what comes out of our mouths is a real call to our Representatives, Senators and our President to make equal rights for LGBT people a priority in regards to repealing Don't Ask, Don't Tell, the repealing of the Defense of Marriage Act and the passing of an inclusive Employment-Non Discrimination Act. I hope that in our hearts we might call the Christian Anti-Defamation Commission to not consider harming LGBT individuals through inciting hate crimes. I hope that Christians who harbor attitudes of hate for LGBT individuals might hear the call of God to learn to love, accept and affirm the marginalized of society and the Church.
Likewise, it is the call of LGBT Christians and all people of good will to be in dialogue with those who have attitudes against LGBT individuals. We just never know when something someone says or does will change an attitude or affect an alteration of people. Philip and Randi Reitan shared with our group on Saturday night that For the Bible Tells Me So has already begun to work on the hearts of people connected with Focus on the Family. Just think of what our true stories shared in love can do to change others.
O God, you made us in your image and redeemed us through Jesus your Son; take away the arrogance and hatred which infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us; unite us in the bonds of love; and work through our struggle and confusion to accomplish your purpose 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).
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Where Are Our Hearts?
Sometimes our human hearts can play tricks on us. If you have ever changed your eating habits or even your exercise routine and created a new regimen it is very easy to suddenly think of ourselves as having reached a milestone while others are still way behind us.
One of my all time favorite old television sitcoms was the Jefferson's. This very funny television show was all about George and Louise Jefferson an African American family. George who experienced the marginalization of a racist driven society was once on the very bottom, trying to rise to the top. When George finally became the owner of his own successful cleaning company he had forgotten what it was like to be on the bottom of societies step ladder. How many times during the series where there hilarious exchanges about George being selfish and small minded about others? George had become arrogant and pig headed about people on the fringes of society and other races. He was often very rude and cold to Mr. Willis. The prejudice had shifted places.
No matter who we are, no matter how successful we are at a particular job, we can always be sent to the bottom. The causes for us falling through the cracks can be because of the economy (such as is happening to many people these days) or illness because of no or little health care (also happening in record numbers today) or just because life deals them or us a bad hand. Yet it is often not those on the top that have much to teach us about life, death or even charity, it is those who struggle from the bottom up.
Looking at today's readings it is easy to look upon the Religious leaders of Jesus' day as arrogant. However, such an attitude is a little self righteous on our part. All of us at one time or another think we are above others never to be taken down. We all have an abundance of something even if it is something other than money. We have talents, gifts, abilities, dreams, desires and fears. We all have those things that we keep completely to ourselves. There are also others with gifts who wish to use them to serve us, and how often do we refuse the service of others out of our own envy, prejudice or inferiority?
In today's Gospel from Mark 12: 38 to 44 we read of three groups of people. The Scribes and Pharisees who have everything, those who give out of an abundance and the widow who gave out of her poverty. I think every one of us in one way or another have something to give to God and the Church. Every one of us has something we can give to God for the benefit of others.
Our problem can be the limitations we place upon ourselves or the limitations that can be given by others. There are many lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered individuals who have much to give to society and the Church. However, due to the stereotypes often inflicted on LGBT individuals by society, the religious right and the media LGBT people are often kept from giving themselves to God out of their poverty. LGBT individuals, women and people of different races, national backgrounds, challenges and the like need to not wait for others to accept them before they put their best forward. LGBT and other individuals who are marginalized will do well if they will bring themselves to houses of worship as well as political and social establishments so that they can give their hearts to God in service of others. Many of us come with our wounds, rejections, illnesses, addictions and complicated family histories. God is the one who can best take those things and transform them to be used as witnesses of the power of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit in the world around us.
Where are our hearts? Are we prepared to offer ourselves, our entire selves regardless of how poor we are, how broken, the difficulty of our addictions and rejections to God? How are we allowing the opinions of others to affect our giving of ourselves to God? How are we willing to give ourselves totally and completely to the Holy Spirit and see how God makes use of all that we have and do not have? Are we the one's keeping ourselves from giving all that we have to God?
No matter who we are, how we love and who we love, where we've come from, what our racial beginnings are, what our challenges or abilities are, God can make use of the gifts we have to offer. There is no small gift given to God. There is nothing that we can give to God that God will not transform into something greater if we only trust in God to do the transforming. If we can only learn to understand that it is God who is building the house, then we could finally assist with the work of God and not try so hard to be the administrator.
As for those who have abundance to give, keep in mind that everyone starts at the bottom and at any moment we can all be put back there. When we have our abundance to give for the benefit of those who hardly have any poverty to give out of, God works with that in ways that you cannot imagine.
Let us pray for each other as we discern together what God is asking us to give. Let us ask God to help us to trust God with even the poverty of our Spirit so that we can gain a place in God's kingdom through God transforming us and using us for the good of God's Church and God's people. Amen.
One of my all time favorite old television sitcoms was the Jefferson's. This very funny television show was all about George and Louise Jefferson an African American family. George who experienced the marginalization of a racist driven society was once on the very bottom, trying to rise to the top. When George finally became the owner of his own successful cleaning company he had forgotten what it was like to be on the bottom of societies step ladder. How many times during the series where there hilarious exchanges about George being selfish and small minded about others? George had become arrogant and pig headed about people on the fringes of society and other races. He was often very rude and cold to Mr. Willis. The prejudice had shifted places.
No matter who we are, no matter how successful we are at a particular job, we can always be sent to the bottom. The causes for us falling through the cracks can be because of the economy (such as is happening to many people these days) or illness because of no or little health care (also happening in record numbers today) or just because life deals them or us a bad hand. Yet it is often not those on the top that have much to teach us about life, death or even charity, it is those who struggle from the bottom up.
Looking at today's readings it is easy to look upon the Religious leaders of Jesus' day as arrogant. However, such an attitude is a little self righteous on our part. All of us at one time or another think we are above others never to be taken down. We all have an abundance of something even if it is something other than money. We have talents, gifts, abilities, dreams, desires and fears. We all have those things that we keep completely to ourselves. There are also others with gifts who wish to use them to serve us, and how often do we refuse the service of others out of our own envy, prejudice or inferiority?
In today's Gospel from Mark 12: 38 to 44 we read of three groups of people. The Scribes and Pharisees who have everything, those who give out of an abundance and the widow who gave out of her poverty. I think every one of us in one way or another have something to give to God and the Church. Every one of us has something we can give to God for the benefit of others.
Our problem can be the limitations we place upon ourselves or the limitations that can be given by others. There are many lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered individuals who have much to give to society and the Church. However, due to the stereotypes often inflicted on LGBT individuals by society, the religious right and the media LGBT people are often kept from giving themselves to God out of their poverty. LGBT individuals, women and people of different races, national backgrounds, challenges and the like need to not wait for others to accept them before they put their best forward. LGBT and other individuals who are marginalized will do well if they will bring themselves to houses of worship as well as political and social establishments so that they can give their hearts to God in service of others. Many of us come with our wounds, rejections, illnesses, addictions and complicated family histories. God is the one who can best take those things and transform them to be used as witnesses of the power of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit in the world around us.
Where are our hearts? Are we prepared to offer ourselves, our entire selves regardless of how poor we are, how broken, the difficulty of our addictions and rejections to God? How are we allowing the opinions of others to affect our giving of ourselves to God? How are we willing to give ourselves totally and completely to the Holy Spirit and see how God makes use of all that we have and do not have? Are we the one's keeping ourselves from giving all that we have to God?
No matter who we are, how we love and who we love, where we've come from, what our racial beginnings are, what our challenges or abilities are, God can make use of the gifts we have to offer. There is no small gift given to God. There is nothing that we can give to God that God will not transform into something greater if we only trust in God to do the transforming. If we can only learn to understand that it is God who is building the house, then we could finally assist with the work of God and not try so hard to be the administrator.
As for those who have abundance to give, keep in mind that everyone starts at the bottom and at any moment we can all be put back there. When we have our abundance to give for the benefit of those who hardly have any poverty to give out of, God works with that in ways that you cannot imagine.
Let us pray for each other as we discern together what God is asking us to give. Let us ask God to help us to trust God with even the poverty of our Spirit so that we can gain a place in God's kingdom through God transforming us and using us for the good of God's Church and God's people. Amen.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
We are God's Treasures and Pearls
Based on Matthew 13: 44 to 52
It is interesting what people will do when they read about a good sale. People who really, really want what it is will stop at nothing to get what what they are after. They will use that spare money, make sure they get to the store on time. The reaction should they get there and find that they are all out of the item on sale can be one of "oh well, we'll just come back next time." Or: "Oh no!" It can make or break someone's day.
Well God made the decision that you and I are so very important to God that God was willing to spare everything to gain us for God's self. Even when we took advantage of God's generosity in creation and turned away from God, God still thought we were of the utmost importance to God. And so God did not even spare God's only begotten Son, Jesus Christ. When God came to us in God's perfect revelation, God opened up the way for all of us to be drawn back to God. God made no distinctions, no exceptions and no one was excluded from being part of God's plan of salvation. We are the treasure that God sold everything God had to buy the field. We are the precious pearl that God sold everything to have. We are the ones that God loves so much, that God literally put God's self out there, totally vulnerable and willing to give everything in order to draw us closer to God so that God could save us.
So what is our excuse for not welcoming everyone to be part of God's Church? Why is it that we have all this criteria? Over the years women have been told that they have their dignity as human beings, but they are still suppose to live in total subordination to men and not be included in Church leadership positions? People of different nationalities such as African Americans, Native American's, Eastern Indians, Asians, people from the West Indies, South America, Mexico and the Muslim people are told that they have their rightful place in American society, yet there are political parties that still accuse such people as "trying to take away things that are not theirs." Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered individuals when they seek their rights through the Matthew Shepard Hate Crimes Bill, or through the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) are accused of wanting to "invade the bathrooms of certain sexes so as to commit sexual assault." What is our excuse for not seeing others different than ourselves as one of God's most precious treasures or pearls? Why does our view of people's dignity and integrity stop at the doors of race, sexual orientation and/or gender identity/expression, national origin, religion, challenge or class?
Okay, our human limitations have something to do with it. All of us including this writer struggles every day to live the principles that I write about. I have days too when I am not as open. I make excuses too. I think the "excuse" that we do not look at with all openness and honesty is that we do not yet see ourselves as being God's treasure or pearl. And why should we give anyone else a benefit that we ourselves do not yet own? And this is a message that is as difficult for me to hear as anyone else. From the prayer of St. Francis: "It is in giving that we receive." All too often we have accepted "I cannot give what I do not have." While there is truth in that, the fact that we are alive, breathing, hurting, working, sleeping, loving, struggling is God's gift to us as God's precious pearls and treasures. Our problem is, we do not see God's gifts in the little things, and so we miss God's blessings big and small.
God's very gift of life that we share right here and right now, is the gift from which we can share goodness, love, integrity, dignity and wholeness with others around us. Just the opportunity to struggle to accept ourselves as God's pearl and treasure is a gifted chance given by God to see someone else as God's treasure and pearl. Oh, how this challenges my own stubborn heart, that doesn't want to move past where I am. And I suspect it is the same hardness of heart that keeps others from moving forward. As a gay man, I have heard so many times that I am not in God's good graces as long as I am gay, in love with my partner in a committed monogamous relationship. However, Jesus just told me today, that I am the treasure and the pearl that God spent everything including God's Son to obtain. Do we see ourselves that way when we look into our mirrors, or do we see someone that just is not good enough? Could that be why we have such difficulty seeing the goodness of God's treasure and pearl in someone who is different that ourselves?
O God, who created all peoples in your image, we thank you for the wonderful diversity of races and cultures, "sexual orientations and gender identities/expressions" in this world. Enrich our lives by ever-widening circles of fellowship, and show us your presence in those who differ most from us, until our knowledge of your love is made perfect in our love for all your children; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. (Prayer taken from the Book of Common Prayer, #7. For the Diversity of Races and Cultures, Page 840. Sexual orientations and gender identities/expressions were added by the author of this blog.)
It is interesting what people will do when they read about a good sale. People who really, really want what it is will stop at nothing to get what what they are after. They will use that spare money, make sure they get to the store on time. The reaction should they get there and find that they are all out of the item on sale can be one of "oh well, we'll just come back next time." Or: "Oh no!" It can make or break someone's day.
Well God made the decision that you and I are so very important to God that God was willing to spare everything to gain us for God's self. Even when we took advantage of God's generosity in creation and turned away from God, God still thought we were of the utmost importance to God. And so God did not even spare God's only begotten Son, Jesus Christ. When God came to us in God's perfect revelation, God opened up the way for all of us to be drawn back to God. God made no distinctions, no exceptions and no one was excluded from being part of God's plan of salvation. We are the treasure that God sold everything God had to buy the field. We are the precious pearl that God sold everything to have. We are the ones that God loves so much, that God literally put God's self out there, totally vulnerable and willing to give everything in order to draw us closer to God so that God could save us.
So what is our excuse for not welcoming everyone to be part of God's Church? Why is it that we have all this criteria? Over the years women have been told that they have their dignity as human beings, but they are still suppose to live in total subordination to men and not be included in Church leadership positions? People of different nationalities such as African Americans, Native American's, Eastern Indians, Asians, people from the West Indies, South America, Mexico and the Muslim people are told that they have their rightful place in American society, yet there are political parties that still accuse such people as "trying to take away things that are not theirs." Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered individuals when they seek their rights through the Matthew Shepard Hate Crimes Bill, or through the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) are accused of wanting to "invade the bathrooms of certain sexes so as to commit sexual assault." What is our excuse for not seeing others different than ourselves as one of God's most precious treasures or pearls? Why does our view of people's dignity and integrity stop at the doors of race, sexual orientation and/or gender identity/expression, national origin, religion, challenge or class?
Okay, our human limitations have something to do with it. All of us including this writer struggles every day to live the principles that I write about. I have days too when I am not as open. I make excuses too. I think the "excuse" that we do not look at with all openness and honesty is that we do not yet see ourselves as being God's treasure or pearl. And why should we give anyone else a benefit that we ourselves do not yet own? And this is a message that is as difficult for me to hear as anyone else. From the prayer of St. Francis: "It is in giving that we receive." All too often we have accepted "I cannot give what I do not have." While there is truth in that, the fact that we are alive, breathing, hurting, working, sleeping, loving, struggling is God's gift to us as God's precious pearls and treasures. Our problem is, we do not see God's gifts in the little things, and so we miss God's blessings big and small.
God's very gift of life that we share right here and right now, is the gift from which we can share goodness, love, integrity, dignity and wholeness with others around us. Just the opportunity to struggle to accept ourselves as God's pearl and treasure is a gifted chance given by God to see someone else as God's treasure and pearl. Oh, how this challenges my own stubborn heart, that doesn't want to move past where I am. And I suspect it is the same hardness of heart that keeps others from moving forward. As a gay man, I have heard so many times that I am not in God's good graces as long as I am gay, in love with my partner in a committed monogamous relationship. However, Jesus just told me today, that I am the treasure and the pearl that God spent everything including God's Son to obtain. Do we see ourselves that way when we look into our mirrors, or do we see someone that just is not good enough? Could that be why we have such difficulty seeing the goodness of God's treasure and pearl in someone who is different that ourselves?
O God, who created all peoples in your image, we thank you for the wonderful diversity of races and cultures, "sexual orientations and gender identities/expressions" in this world. Enrich our lives by ever-widening circles of fellowship, and show us your presence in those who differ most from us, until our knowledge of your love is made perfect in our love for all your children; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. (Prayer taken from the Book of Common Prayer, #7. For the Diversity of Races and Cultures, Page 840. Sexual orientations and gender identities/expressions were added by the author of this blog.)
Monday, October 12, 2009
How Do We Participate in the Mission of Christ?
Based on Matthew 10: 5-15
In today's Gospel, Jesus sends his Disciples into their own country asking them to proclaim the good news. "The kingdom of heaven has come near. Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out demons. You received without payment, give without payment."
We might tend to think sometimes that the greatest of work takes place in some distant land. If we really want to make a difference in the world, we have to go somewhere. However, the work of proclaiming the kingdom of heaven needs to be done right here, right now, in this time, by us. The work that God has given us to do in the here and now is how God wants us to share the good news that the kingdom of heaven is near. Right around us in our own neighborhoods are the poor, the sick, the abandoned, people facing death most often alone, the marginalized, the broken and those with spirits in despair.
In verses 11 to 15 Jesus told his Disciples: "Whatever town or village you enter, find out who in it is worthy, and stay there until you leave. As you enter the house, greet it. If the house is worthy, let your peace come upon it; but if it is not worthy, let your peace return to you. If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your word, shake off the dust from your feet as you leave that house or town. Truly I tell you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgment than for that town."
Jesus tells us to go where we are welcome, and if we are not welcome leave and shake the dust of our feet. As we get to the end of this Gospel, we hear about the lack hospitality of Sodom and Gomorrah and that those who reject God's messengers will not fair so well.
As we seek to bring the Gospel even in our own communities, there will be those who will not receive or listen to us. This is very often the experience of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered individuals. We bring a message of diversity, love and calling for justice and equality. We ask for our political and religious communities to look upon us as people who come with a pure, honest desire to love other people in the way God created us. Yet we hear over and over again, how religious right leaders and individuals look upon us, not as loving individuals created in the image and likeness of God, but as individuals who are condemned by God and the Church. As we make the attempt time and again to reach across party lines and enter houses of worship, we are greeted with rejection and compared with pedophiles, common criminals, those who commit incest or desire sex with animals. Even those who seek to live their lives married to an individual of the same sex in a loving, monogomous, committed relationship are told we are living in sin and there is no place for us in God's house, in our communities, in work places, in the military, in places where we can volunteer to help the poor and needy, we find rejection over and over.
By no means are we required by God or anyone else for that matter to stay in a place where we are not viewed as individuals created and loved by God. Thankfully, there are places of worship, employment, community activism, hospitals and even places where we can make a difference that we are welcomed. Our mission is to bring the Gospel of God's loving compassion, mercy and justice so that others may see the kingdom of heaven here on earth. As we become more visible in our homes and communities, we inspire others who are trapped in their closets to come out and be who they are. We raise up the spirits of those who are in despair and help them see, that they can live lives of love and compassion, just as they are, not as others would have them be. This kind of work, is the work of Jesus Christ and his message of Salvation. Jesus Christ set us free from sin, not to live in closets wearing masks and pretending we are no one important. Jesus Christ gave his life on the Cross and rose from the dead to make us the adopted daughters and sons of God. To share in God's presence in this world, and to see in each other God's creative and redemptive love.
Regardless of what our sexual orientation is, or race, or challenge, or faith, God empowers each of us through God's love and grace to work towards the establishment of the kingdom. To each of us is given the authority and mission to make the world around us a better place for all. That is why the health care reform debate is so important. It is about helping those who are sick be able to get the health care that they need. This is a work that is needed here and now. The work of God's kingdom on earth includes seeking the common good for every person, including those we consider unlovable.
How do we participate in the mission of Christ in our communities, homes, families and churches?
Almighty God, you sent your Son Jesus Christ to reconcile the world to yourself. We praise and bless you for those whom you have sent in the power of the Spirit to preach the Gospel to all nations. We thank you that in all parts of the earth a community of love has been gathered together by their prayers and labors, and that in every place your servants call upon your Name; for the kingdom and the power and the glory are yours for ever. Amen. (Book of Common Prayer, #3 For the Mission of the Church, Page 838).
In today's Gospel, Jesus sends his Disciples into their own country asking them to proclaim the good news. "The kingdom of heaven has come near. Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out demons. You received without payment, give without payment."
We might tend to think sometimes that the greatest of work takes place in some distant land. If we really want to make a difference in the world, we have to go somewhere. However, the work of proclaiming the kingdom of heaven needs to be done right here, right now, in this time, by us. The work that God has given us to do in the here and now is how God wants us to share the good news that the kingdom of heaven is near. Right around us in our own neighborhoods are the poor, the sick, the abandoned, people facing death most often alone, the marginalized, the broken and those with spirits in despair.
In verses 11 to 15 Jesus told his Disciples: "Whatever town or village you enter, find out who in it is worthy, and stay there until you leave. As you enter the house, greet it. If the house is worthy, let your peace come upon it; but if it is not worthy, let your peace return to you. If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your word, shake off the dust from your feet as you leave that house or town. Truly I tell you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgment than for that town."
Jesus tells us to go where we are welcome, and if we are not welcome leave and shake the dust of our feet. As we get to the end of this Gospel, we hear about the lack hospitality of Sodom and Gomorrah and that those who reject God's messengers will not fair so well.
As we seek to bring the Gospel even in our own communities, there will be those who will not receive or listen to us. This is very often the experience of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered individuals. We bring a message of diversity, love and calling for justice and equality. We ask for our political and religious communities to look upon us as people who come with a pure, honest desire to love other people in the way God created us. Yet we hear over and over again, how religious right leaders and individuals look upon us, not as loving individuals created in the image and likeness of God, but as individuals who are condemned by God and the Church. As we make the attempt time and again to reach across party lines and enter houses of worship, we are greeted with rejection and compared with pedophiles, common criminals, those who commit incest or desire sex with animals. Even those who seek to live their lives married to an individual of the same sex in a loving, monogomous, committed relationship are told we are living in sin and there is no place for us in God's house, in our communities, in work places, in the military, in places where we can volunteer to help the poor and needy, we find rejection over and over.
By no means are we required by God or anyone else for that matter to stay in a place where we are not viewed as individuals created and loved by God. Thankfully, there are places of worship, employment, community activism, hospitals and even places where we can make a difference that we are welcomed. Our mission is to bring the Gospel of God's loving compassion, mercy and justice so that others may see the kingdom of heaven here on earth. As we become more visible in our homes and communities, we inspire others who are trapped in their closets to come out and be who they are. We raise up the spirits of those who are in despair and help them see, that they can live lives of love and compassion, just as they are, not as others would have them be. This kind of work, is the work of Jesus Christ and his message of Salvation. Jesus Christ set us free from sin, not to live in closets wearing masks and pretending we are no one important. Jesus Christ gave his life on the Cross and rose from the dead to make us the adopted daughters and sons of God. To share in God's presence in this world, and to see in each other God's creative and redemptive love.
Regardless of what our sexual orientation is, or race, or challenge, or faith, God empowers each of us through God's love and grace to work towards the establishment of the kingdom. To each of us is given the authority and mission to make the world around us a better place for all. That is why the health care reform debate is so important. It is about helping those who are sick be able to get the health care that they need. This is a work that is needed here and now. The work of God's kingdom on earth includes seeking the common good for every person, including those we consider unlovable.
How do we participate in the mission of Christ in our communities, homes, families and churches?
Almighty God, you sent your Son Jesus Christ to reconcile the world to yourself. We praise and bless you for those whom you have sent in the power of the Spirit to preach the Gospel to all nations. We thank you that in all parts of the earth a community of love has been gathered together by their prayers and labors, and that in every place your servants call upon your Name; for the kingdom and the power and the glory are yours for ever. Amen. (Book of Common Prayer, #3 For the Mission of the Church, Page 838).
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