Daily Devotional, Friday, October 31

Collect of the Day
Almighty God, whose most dear Son went not up to joy but first he suffered pain, and entered not into glory before he was crucified: Mercifully grant that we, walking in the way of the cross, may find it none other than the way of life and peace; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord. Amen.

Gospel Reading of the Day, Luke 12: 13-31
13 Someone in the crowd said to him, "Teacher, tell my brother to divide the family inheritance with me." 14 But he said to him, "Friend, who set me to be a judge or arbitrator over you?" 15 And he said to them, "Take care! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; for one's life does not consist in the abundance of possessions." 16 Then he told them a parable: "The land of a rich man produced abundantly. 17 And he thought to himself, "What should I do, for I have no place to store my crops?' 18 Then he said, "I will do this: I will pull down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. 19 And I will say to my soul, Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.' 20 But God said to him, "You fool! This very night your life is being demanded of you. And the things you have prepared, whose will they be?' 21 So it is with those who store up treasures for themselves but are not rich toward God." 22 He said to his disciples, "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat, or about your body, what you will wear. 23 For life is more than food, and the body more than clothing. 24 Consider the ravens: they neither sow nor reap, they have neither storehouse nor barn, and yet God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds! 25 And can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your span of life? 26 If then you are not able to do so small a thing as that, why do you worry about the rest? 27 Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not clothed like one of these. 28 But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will he clothe you—you of little faith! 29 And do not keep striving for what you are to eat and what you are to drink, and do not keep worrying. 30 For it is the nations of the world that strive after all these things, and your Father knows that you need them. 31 Instead, strive for his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well.

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“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat, or about your body, what you will wear…. And can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your span of life?”

When I read this verse in today’s Gospel lesson, my memory served up an image of MAD Magazine, with that goofy looking character on the front saying, “What? Me worry?” As I recover from this morning’s dose of CNN I wonder if there is anyone who is awake who is not worried! But this a large part of the problem, isn’t it? Fear has gripped the economic world and precipitated a steep decline. This may be an overdue “correction”, but no one seems to know what actually is correct, so our imagination goes into overdrive. Mark Twain once observed that, “I have suffered all my life from all sorts of calamities, most of which never happened.” Indeed! Or, looked at from the other side, when has our worrying actually helped our situation? The first step to solving a problem is usually clearing our mind of worry, which just distorts the situation.

So much for psychology and common sense, which is basically true. However, as Christians, we can do more. First, we can recognize our worry as a sign that somehow we are alone in the world, and that it all depends on us, or worse, depends on someone else over whom we have no control. Powerlessness is one of humanity’s most dreaded feelings, because it threatens us at a very deep level. And yet, many times we are powerless, and the sooner we face the fact and turn it over to God, the better. Does this mean just pray about it and it will all be okay? No. It means turn it over to God, then listen for direction; listen for ideas; and listen to possibilities from others without discounting them too quickly. Yes, of course we need to be concerned, but worry is a form of doubt, of mistrust. Concern focuses our efforts on solutions while worry focuses our imaginations on fearsome outcomes.

Looking back over many trials through the years, often things did not work out the way I wanted them to. Instead, in good time, something even better developed. I’m not saying that God keeps us from what we want because he has a better plan, but I am saying that regardless of the severity of our situation, God within us can direct our path to the nearest exit and the best outcome under the circumstances. Ideally, by developing a close relationship with God, and listening for and responding to the urging of the Holy Spirit, we can move fearlessly through life, confident in the path we have chosen.

God’s peace,

Deacon Doug Freebern

Daily Devotional, Thursday, October 30

Collect of the Day
Heavenly Father, in you we live and move and have our being: We humbly pray you so to guide and govern us by your Holy Spirit, that in all the cares and occupations of our life we may not forget you, but may remember that we are ever walking in your sight; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Gospel Reading of the Day, Luke 11: 53 - 12:12
53 When he went outside, the scribes and the Pharisees began to be very hostile toward him and to cross-examine him about many things, 54 lying in wait for him, to catch him in something he might say.

1 Meanwhile, when the crowd gathered by the thousands, so that they trampled on one another, he began to speak first to his disciples, "Beware of the yeast of the Pharisees, that is, their hypocrisy. 2 Nothing is covered up that will not be uncovered, and nothing secret that will not become known. 3 Therefore whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be proclaimed from the housetops. 4 "I tell you, my friends, do not fear those who kill the body, and after that can do nothing more. 5 But I will warn you whom to fear: fear him who, after he has killed, has authority to cast into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him! 6 Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten in God's sight. 7 But even the hairs of your head are all counted. Do not be afraid; you are of more value than many sparrows. 8 "And I tell you, everyone who acknowledges me before others, the Son of Man also will acknowledge before the angels of God; 9 but whoever denies me before others will be denied before the angels of God. 10 And everyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven; but whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven. 11 When they bring you before the synagogues, the rulers, and the authorities, do not worry about how you are to defend yourselves or what you are to say; 12 for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that very hour what you ought to say."

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“Beware the yeast of the Pharisees, that is, their hypocrisy.”

Yeast is such interesting stuff. I have watched my wife, Connie, make bread on a number of occasions over the years, and it always amazes me how that little packet of powder gets mixed in with the other ingredients, totally disappearing. But just because it has disappeared doesn’t mean it’s not there. Connie adds the liquid ingredients, and stirs it all together, then she covers the bowl with a towel and lets it rise. That little packet of yeast begins producing gas, and pretty soon the whole mass of flour is swelling up like a balloon! No longer invisible!

The Gospel reading for today describes in no uncertain terms how hypocritical behavior will catch up with us. Like the yeast, it gets mixed into our overall life pattern and insidiously expands until it is no longer invisible. By setting aside time each day to review our behaviors, we can hold them up to the Christ-light for scrutiny and choose the good. It is the Holy Spirit that teaches us what to do and say when we feel tested. We need never fear the outcome when we choose the sincere, straightforward and honest approach; the Holy Spirit will lead us to do and say the right thing. This is why we don’t ever want to deny the Holy Spirit; we would be turning our backs on our only guide to right action!

Peace, Deacon Doug Freebern

Daily Devotional, Wednesday, October 29

Collect of the Day
Lord God, almighty and everlasting Father, you have brought us in safety to this new day: Preserve us with your mighty power, that we may not fall into sin, nor be overcome by adversity; and in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Gospel Reading of the Day, Luke 11: 37-52
37 While he was speaking, a Pharisee invited him to dine with him; so he went in and took his place at the table. 38 The Pharisee was amazed to see that he did not first wash before dinner. 39 Then the Lord said to him, "Now you Pharisees clean the outside of the cup and of the dish, but inside you are full of greed and wickedness. 40 You fools! Did not the one who made the outside make the inside also? 41 So give for alms those things that are within; and see, everything will be clean for you. 42 "But woe to you Pharisees! For you tithe mint and rue and herbs of all kinds, and neglect justice and the love of God; it is these you ought to have practiced, without neglecting the others. 43 Woe to you Pharisees! For you love to have the seat of honor in the synagogues and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces. 44 Woe to you! For you are like unmarked graves, and people walk over them without realizing it." 45 One of the lawyers answered him, "Teacher, when you say these things, you insult us too." 46 And he said, "Woe also to you lawyers! For you load people with burdens hard to bear, and you yourselves do not lift a finger to ease them. 47 Woe to you! For you build the tombs of the prophets whom your ancestors killed. 48 So you are witnesses and approve of the deeds of your ancestors; for they killed them, and you build their tombs. 49 Therefore also the Wisdom of God said, "I will send them prophets and apostles, some of whom they will kill and persecute,' 50 so that this generation may be charged with the blood of all the prophets shed since the foundation of the world, 51 from the blood of Abel to the blood of Zechariah, who perished between the altar and the sanctuary. Yes, I tell you, it will be charged against this generation. 52 Woe to you lawyers! For you have taken away the key of knowledge; you did not enter yourselves, and you hindered those who were entering."

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The Gospel reading for today is a good example of how Jesus’ ministry turned things inside out (no pun intended). The wisdom of this world is not the wisdom of God. The Pharisees and the lawyers, who are in the hot seat in this particular reading, represent the legal mindset that is concerned with outward form instead of inner sincerity and with personal gain instead of solutions to problems. He accuses the Pharisees of espousing one set of values while living another, and the lawyers of profiting from the misdeeds of those who persecute others while doing nothing to end the persecution.

Although Jesus begins with the image of dishes clean on the outside but dirty on the inside, he quickly links those images to their hypocrisy. The question for us, today, is when do we act like a Pharisee and when do we act like the lawyers he describes? It’s not that some people are like this and others not. I know in my own case that I’m not usually this way, but I’m capable of lapses. It would be far easier to live the life of Christ, for Christ, if we were consistent but unfortunately we are not. This is why it is so important to have regular times for re-centering ourselves in Christ and for reviewing our behaviors in the light of his teachings. We are all like that field Jesus describes in one of his parables, where the wheat and the tares grow together until the harvest. Prayerful vigilance is the best way to reap a good harvest.

Blessings, Deacon Doug Freebern

Daily Devotional, Tuesday, October 28

Collect of the Day
O God, the author of peace and lover of concord, to know you is eternal life and to serve you is perfect freedom: Defend us, your humble servants, in all assaults of our enemies; that we, surely trusting in your defense, may not fear the power of any adversaries; through the might of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Gospel Reading of the Day, Luke 11: 27-36
27 While he was saying this, a woman in the crowd raised her voice and said to him, "Blessed is the womb that bore you and the breasts that nursed you!" 28 But he said, "Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it!"
29 When the crowds were increasing, he began to say, "This generation is an evil generation; it asks for a sign, but no sign will be given to it except the sign of Jonah. 30 For just as Jonah became a sign to the people of Nineveh, so the Son of Man will be to this generation. 31 The queen of the South will rise at the judgment with the people of this generation and condemn them, because she came from the ends of the earth to listen to the wisdom of Solomon, and see, something greater than Solomon is here! 32 The people of Nineveh will rise up at the judgment with this generation and condemn it, because they repented at the proclamation of Jonah, and see, something greater than Jonah is here! 33 "No one after lighting a lamp puts it in a cellar, but on the lampstand so that those who enter may see the light. 34 Your eye is the lamp of your body. If your eye is healthy, your whole body is full of light; but if it is not healthy, your body is full of darkness. 35 Therefore consider whether the light in you is not darkness. 36 If then your whole body is full of light, with no part of it in darkness, it will be as full of light as when a lamp gives you light with its rays."

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Jesus is not seeking praise; he is seeking obedience. As long as the crowd follows him because he is compelling, or interesting, or even because he can heal people, and then go home without changing, nothing has been accomplished. When his words bring a change of heart and motivate his listeners to obey God’s word, then they are truly blessed.

As Christians we are the bearers of the good news of Christ; our lamp has been lit. Do we mostly keep this good news to ourselves, satisfied that we have been fortunate enough to hear it, or do we make its presence obvious to others so that we get the opportunity to share it? Jesus gives us a clue about one way we can share his good news: we can learn to see God’s presence in those we meet by looking for it, by opening our eyes to the glory of God. As we seek this light in others, we find it, and as we find it, we reach out to them in love instead of fear, with a desire to give and not a need to get. When we do this, those we are reaching out to can see the light of Christ in us and so are filled with more light themselves. Our light shines more brightly with the discovery of the Christ light in others.

Blessings, Deacon Doug Freebern

Daily Devotional, Monday, October 27

Collect of the Day
O God, the King eternal, whose light divides the day from the night and turns the shadow of death into the morning: Drive far from us all wrong desires, incline our hearts to keep your law, and guide our feet into the way of peace; that, having done your will with cheerfulness during the day, we may, when night comes, rejoice to give you thanks; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Gospel Reading of the Day, Luke 11:14-26
14 Now he was casting out a demon that was mute; when the demon had gone out, the one who had been mute spoke, and the crowds were amazed. 15 But some of them said, "He casts out demons by Beelzebul, the ruler of the demons." 16 Others, to test him, kept demanding from him a sign from heaven. 17 But he knew what they were thinking and said to them, "Every kingdom divided against itself becomes a desert, and house falls on house. 18 If Satan also is divided against himself, how will his kingdom stand? —for you say that I cast out the demons by Beelzebul. 19 Now if I cast out the demons by Beelzebul, by whom do your exorcists cast them out? Therefore they will be your judges. 20 But if it is by the finger of God that I cast out the demons, then the kingdom of God has come to you. 21 When a strong man, fully armed, guards his castle, his property is safe. 22 But when one stronger than he attacks him and overpowers him, he takes away his armor in which he trusted and divides his plunder. 23 Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters. 24 "When the unclean spirit has gone out of a person, it wanders through waterless regions looking for a resting place, but not finding any, it says, "I will return to my house from which I came.' 25 When it comes, it finds it swept and put in order. 26 Then it goes and brings seven other spirits more evil than itself, and they enter and live there; and the last state of that person is worse than the first."

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In our technological age where sickness is viewed as an invasion or a malfunction, it is hard to relate to a time when sickness was viewed as the result of demons drifting around and afflicting people. By comparing Jesus’ healing of the mute, or the man named Legion, for that matter, where the demons entered a herd of swine who then ran down into the river and drowned, the doubters in Jesus’ midst were equating Jesus to an exorcist. Jesus tells them that removing demons is not enough, because if the person is weak and unable to defend himself, healing needs to take place. Otherwise, the person is susceptible to even more disease. His analogy of the strong man guarding his house can be understood from the standpoint of modern medicine by realizing that being in good health is more than being disease free. Many times it seems as though our medical model holds being free of disease as being healthy, but radiant health is far more, and actually defends the body from disease.

Looking deeper, we can also see that our mental and spiritual health depend on not just being free of bad habits, desires and phobias, but on a right relationship with God, the source of good health in body mind and spirit. Jesus saying, “ Cleaning out the old evils of whatever kind is not enough. We also need to fill our hearts and minds with the power and love of God. So, if God is the source of the healing, then the result will be strength, radiant health, and vigor and not just the absence of the offending evil.

Peace, Deacon Doug Freebern

Daily Devotional, Sunday, October 26

Collect of the Day
O God, you make us glad with the weekly remembrance of the glorious resurrection of your Son our Lord: Give us this day such blessing through our worship of you, that the week to come may be spent in your favor; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Gospel Reading of the Day, Matthew 18:15-20
15 "If another member of the church sins against you, go and point out the fault when the two of you are alone. If the member listens to you, you have regained that one. 16 But if you are not listened to, take one or two others along with you, so that every word may be confirmed by the evidence of two or three witnesses. 17 If the member refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if the offender refuses to listen even to the church, let such a one be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector. 18 Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. 19 Again, truly I tell you, if two of you agree on earth about anything you ask, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. 20 For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them."

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As always, our Lord offers us good advice on dealing with inter-personal problems in the church. It is always best to begin righting the relationship by confining our grievance to the one who has offended us, for if we don’t, then we may have fanned the flames unfairly; the whole thing may be a misunderstanding. Political situations do arise in church, unfortunately, and it is best to minimize the conflict. As the steps for resolution involve more people, it is possible that more credibility and fairness can ensue; after all, others are not so emotional about our problems as we are!

But what about the last step, the one where the offender won’t even listen to the church? “…if the offender refuses to listen even to the church, let such a one be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector.” Ouch! Sounds like the offender is being cast into outer darkness! But wait, this is Jesus speaking; this is the one who says forgive seven times seventy. There must be something else going on here. Of course there is! Jesus was accused of socializing with tax collectors and of healing Gentiles. Matthew was a tax collector. So, what he is saying, I believe, is, “treat them as a future convert! Love them, heal them, and minister to them, be to them a friend for they are in need of one. Such a one is lost, like that one lost sheep, and will bring delight when it is found. No, they are not members of the church, not bound by the faithful on earth and in heaven, but they can be, and it is now our job to work and pray for that one’s salvation.

Deacon Doug Freebern

Daily Devotional, Saturday, October 25

Collect of the Day
Almighty God, who after the creation of the world rested from all your works and sanctified a day of rest for all your creatures: Grant that we, putting away all earthly anxieties,may be duly prepared for the service of your sanctuary, and that our rest here upon earth may be a preparation for the eternal rest promised to your people in heaven; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Gospel Reading of the Day, Luke 11:1-13
1 He was praying in a certain place, and after he had finished, one of his disciples said to him, "Lord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples." 2 He said to them, "When you pray, say: Father, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. 3 Give us each day our daily bread. 4 And forgive us our sins, for we ourselves forgive everyone indebted to us. And do not bring us to the time of trial." 5 And he said to them, "Suppose one of you has a friend, and you go to him at midnight and say to him, "Friend, lend me three loaves of bread; 6 for a friend of mine has arrived, and I have nothing to set before him.' 7 And he answers from within, "Do not bother me; the door has already been locked, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot get up and give you anything.' 8 I tell you, even though he will not get up and give him anything because he is his friend, at least because of his persistence he will get up and give him whatever he needs. 9 "So I say to you, Ask, and it will be given you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened for you. 10 For everyone who asks receives, and everyone who searches finds, and for everyone who knocks, the door will be opened. 11 Is there anyone among you who, if your child asks for a fish, will give a snake instead of a fish? 12 Or if the child asks for an egg, will give a scorpion? 13 If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!"

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The text of the opening hymn for worship tomorrow at St. Luke's is offered for meditation.

Lord, whose love through humble service bore the weight of human need,
who upon the cross, forsaken, offered mercy's perfect deed,
we, your servants, bring the worship not of voice alone, but heart,
consecrating to your purpose every gift that you impart.

Still your children wander homeless; still the hungry cry for bread;
still the captives long for freedom; still in grief we mourn our dead.
As, O Lord, your deep compassion healed the sick and freed the soul,
use the love your Spirit kindles still to save and make us whole.

As we worship, grant us vision, till your love's revealing light,
in its height and depth and greatness, dawns upon our quickened sight,
making known the needs and burdens your compassion bids us bear,
stirring us to tireless striving your abundant life to share.

Called by worship to your service, forth in your dear name we go,
to the child, the youth, the aged, love in living deeds to show;
hope and health, good will and comfort, counsel, aid, and peace we give,
that your servants, Lord, in freedom may your mercy know and live.

Albert F. Bayly

Daily Devotional, Friday, October 24

Collect of the Day
Almighty God, whose most dear Son went not up to joy but first he suffered pain, and entered not into glory before he was crucified: Mercifully grant that we, walking in the way of the cross, may find it none other than the way of life and peace; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord. Amen.

Gospel Reading of the Day, Luke 10:38-42
38 Now as they went on their way, he entered a certain village, where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. 39 She had a sister named Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to what he was saying. 40 But Martha was distracted by her many tasks; so she came to him and asked, "Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to do all the work by myself? Tell her then to help me." 41 But the Lord answered her, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; 42 there is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her."

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We've all known them: those who "do" and those who watch those who do! We've probably had times of being both the "do-er" and the watcher. I can recall countless times when I've been more than a little disgruntled while watching family and friends sitting around enjoying one another, playing with the children, swapping ancient family stories while I grumbled around in the kitchen getting food ready for those ingrates to enjoy! And nobody seemed to notice me as I banged and clattered, trying to make enough racket so someone would come and help me.

So, what if I'd simply stopped the frantic preparations for a meal? What if I'd quietly joined family and friends to listen to their conversations? What if I'd plopped a wiggling grandchild on my lap for a few minutes of snuggling? Would the family have gone hungry? Would I have been severely chastised for shirking my responsibility? Would I have suffered great pangs of guilt for calling a halt to my busy-ness so that I could enjoy moments of togetherness?

Most likely the meal would be served, maybe a little late. Family and friends would continue to enjoy being together around the table. The grandchildren would continue to wiggle and squirm and spill their milk. And we would all know a brief time of holy, blessed communion. Then it would be time to clean up the mess!

You can be sure, though, that out of all the event, what is remembered with love and joy will be the moments spent sharing with one another – sharing our hopes and dreams, our life-experiences, our stories, our friendship, our love for one another.

I don't think Jesus was reprimanding Martha in today's gospel reading. I think he was inviting her to "Come and sit a spell"!

thoughts of a fellow traveler - DMc

Daily Devotional, Thursday, October 23

Collect of the Day
Lord God, almighty and everlasting Father, you have brought us in safety to this new day: Preserve us with your mighty power, that we may not fall into sin, nor be overcome by adversity; and in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Gospel Reading of the Day, Luke 10:25-37
25 Just then a lawyer stood up to test Jesus. "Teacher," he said, "what must I do to inherit eternal life?" 26 He said to him, "What is written in the law? What do you read there?" 27 He answered, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself." 28 And he said to him, "You have given the right answer; do this, and you will live." 29 But wanting to justify himself, he asked Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?" 30 Jesus replied, "A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell into the hands of robbers, who stripped him, beat him, and went away, leaving him half dead. 31 Now by chance a priest was going down that road; and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 32 So likewise a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. 33 But a Samaritan while traveling came near him; and when he saw him, he was moved with pity. 34 He went to him and bandaged his wounds, having poured oil and wine on them. Then he put him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. 35 The next day he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said, "Take care of him; and when I come back, I will repay you whatever more you spend.' 36 Which of these three, do you think, was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of the robbers?" 37 He said, "The one who showed him mercy." Jesus said to him, "Go and do likewise."

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Have you noticed how Jesus answers questions with more questions? Often he told a story (a parable) that placed responsibility for answers right back on the one asking the question in the first place. Instead of a neat, tidy "yes" or "no" or "none-of-the-above", the answers Jesus gave (and still gives) required people to think, to search inwardly in their hearts, to make decisions based, hopefully, on what they had learned about God as witnessed in the life and teachings of Jesus.

The lawyer in today's gospel reading knew the answers to his question "what must I do to inherit eternal life?" He had learned, and could recite, what was written in the law: "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart (got that); with all your soul (got that); with all your strength (got that); with all your mind (got that); and your neighbor as yourself (wait just a minute! That's a big "don't know about that!") For clarification, and perhaps to justify his next question, the lawyer asks, "And who is my neighbor?" And Jesus, in true "Jesus-style", answers by telling a story that ends by describing, not who a neighbor IS, but what a neighbor DOES. A "neighbor" is one who shows mercy to another!

There it is, that "mercy" business! Mercy has no neighborhood boundaries. Mercy is the shining forth of God's love from one child of God to another child of God. Mercy becomes possible when we look at others hopefully expecting the Spirit of God to spark awareness of our shared humanity, our common kinship in God's kingdom. Mercy sees through race, creed, nationality, "social" status to recognize the needs basic to all human kind.

This "neighbor" business is not easy! But there is mercy in abundance that, just like God's love, is available for the sharing. And once we set our hearts on the goal of being merciful, it's amazing how many people begin looking like "neighbors"!

thoughts of a fellow traveler - DMc

Daily Devotional, Wednesday, October 22

Collect of the Day
O God, the author of peace and lover of concord, to know you is eternal life and to serve you is perfect freedom: Defend us, your humble servants, in all assaults of our enemies; that we, surely trusting in your defense, may not fear the power of any adversaries; through the might of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Gospel Reading of the Day, Luke 10:17-24
17 The seventy returned with joy, saying, "Lord, in your name even the demons submit to us!" 18 He said to them, "I watched Satan fall from heaven like a flash of lightning. 19 See, I have given you authority to tread on snakes and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy; and nothing will hurt you. 20 Nevertheless, do not rejoice at this, that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven." 21 At that same hour Jesus rejoiced in the Holy Spirit and said, "I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and the intelligent and have revealed them to infants; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will. 22 All things have been handed over to me by my Father; and no one knows who the Son is except the Father, or who the Father is except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him." 23 Then turning to the disciples, Jesus said to them privately, "Blessed are the eyes that see what you see! 24 For I tell you that many prophets and kings desired to see what you see, but did not see it, and to hear what you hear, but did not hear it."

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In yesterday's gospel according to Luke we read that Jesus sent 70 (or maybe 72) "on ahead of him to every town and place where he himself intended to go" (Luke 10:1). Among a list of instructions was this most important one: they were to say, "The kingdom of God has come near to you." And so they went. Luke does not tell us exactly where these early evangelists went, nor does he give us any clue as to how long they were on this particular journey.

Today's gospel begins with the 70 (or maybe 72) returning filled with what must have been great amazement and joy. They exclaimed, "Lord, in your name even the demons submit to us!" Wow!

And to think, some of these same people may have been a bit fearful, a little tremulous when they set out to do what Jesus instructed them to do. Jesus even told them that he had given these early followers authority to tread on snakes and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy! I must confess great relief that Jesus did not say, "Prove you believe in me. Tread on snakes, especially the poisonous ones! Adopt a scorpion as your favorite pet to prove you really love me!" Thanks be to God that Jesus reminds them, and us, we are not to rejoice in the fact "the spirits submit to you", but to rejoice that our names are written in heaven!

I'm not sure where my name is written in heaven. I'm also not concerned that beside my name there may be a notation: "nervous around snakes; has a wary respect for scorpions and spiders; not very comfortable in the presence of evil/bad/ugly spirits". Why? Because I'm certain there will also be an equal number of notations telling that I'm eager to more fully participate in the "presence of the kingdom of God"; that I'm thankful every morning for the miracle of a new day; that the mysterious marvel of the gift of music energizes and enthuses me; that I meet the love of Jesus in new and surprising ways almost every day and in people, like me, who don't need to tread on snakes and scorpions to know we can trust God's amazing grace and love. And best of all, I hope to find this emblazoned beside my name: "Child of God, totally amazed by God's trust in her to bring other children of God into the Kingdom"!

thoughts of a fellow traveler - DMc

Daily Devotional, Tuesday, October 21

Collect of the Day
O God, the King eternal, whose light divides the day from the night and turns the shadow of death into the morning: Drive far from us all wrong desires, incline our hearts to keep your law, and guide our feet into the way of peace; that, having done your will with cheerfulness during the day, we may, when night comes, rejoice to give you thanks; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.


Gospel Reading of the Day, Luke 10:1-16
1 After this the Lord appointed seventy others and sent them on ahead of him in pairs to every town and place where he himself intended to go. 2 He said to them, "The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest. 3 Go on your way. See, I am sending you out like lambs into the midst of wolves. 4 Carry no purse, no bag, no sandals; and greet no one on the road. 5 Whatever house you enter, first say, "Peace to this house!' 6 And if anyone is there who shares in peace, your peace will rest on that person; but if not, it will return to you. 7 Remain in the same house, eating and drinking whatever they provide, for the laborer deserves to be paid. Do not move about from house to house. 8 Whenever you enter a town and its people welcome you, eat what is set before you; 9 cure the sick who are there, and say to them, "The kingdom of God has come near to you.' 10 But whenever you enter a town and they do not welcome you, go out into its streets and say, 11 "Even the dust of your town that clings to our feet, we wipe off in protest against you. Yet know this: the kingdom of God has come near.' 12 I tell you, on that day it will be more tolerable for Sodom than for that town. 13 "Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the deeds of power done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. 14 But at the judgment it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon than for you. 15 And you, Capernaum, will you be exalted to heaven? No, you will be brought down to Hades. 16 "Whoever listens to you listens to me, and whoever rejects you rejects me, and whoever rejects me rejects the one who sent me."

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Once upon a time (actually many years ago), we had an enormous garden. And it was one of those "good years" when everything grew in abundance, especially the green beans. My husband and I picked so many green beans I even saw them in my sleep! Believe me, counting green beans while trying to fall asleep is not much fun! Our daughters were just old enough to know that gardening is hard work and not particularly fun. So it was left to the two of us to take care of that plentiful harvest! And the work did not end when the beans had been picked. They had to be canned or frozen or cooked or given away. Unless the harvested food was cared for it would soon become worthless, inedible. And, I admit, some of the green beans were left on the withering vines simply because we got tired of picking them!

Planting, nurturing, harvesting – it's the way of providing food and sustenance for our bodies. It's also a very good plan for caring for God's children. Planting seeds of grace and love, nurturing the emerging buds of hope and faith, bringing into the community of God's people (harvesting) is the work of us who know ourselves to be Christians. And it is work! There are children of all ages all around us, created in the image of God, yearning to know what love looks like, what peace feels like. We trust God to plant those tiny, life-giving seeds of grace and love. God trusts us to nurture them, to encourage them to grow to maturity, to be faithful "harvesters" in his fields that are ripe for harvesting.

Rewards? Back to the green beans! In the midst of long, cold winter days, it was easy to forget the hard work of summer in the "green bean fields" as I prepared those delicious home-canned beans for a family meal! And so it is with the work of spreading the Gospel of the Good News of Jesus. When we begin trying to see Christ in others, when we earnestly work to live following the example given to us by Jesus, when we see the amazing grace at work in the lives of people around us, and in ourselves, we must give thanks to God for trusting us to be laborers in his wondrous creation.

P.S. After the green beans we had zucchini! But that's another story!

Thoughts of a fellow traveler - DMc

Daily Devotional, Monday, October 20

Collect of the Day
Grant, Lord God, to all who have been baptized into the death and resurrection of your Son Jesus Christ, that, as we have put away the old life of sin, so we may be renewed in the spirit of our minds, and live in righteousness and true holiness; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Gospel Reading of the Day, Luke 9:51-62
51 When the days drew near for him to be taken up, he set his face to go to Jerusalem. 52 And he sent messengers ahead of him. On their way they entered a village of the Samaritans to make ready for him; 53 but they did not receive him, because his face was set toward Jerusalem. 54 When his disciples James and John saw it, they said, "Lord, do you want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them?" 55 But he turned and rebuked them. 56 Then they went on to another village. 57 As they were going along the road, someone said to him, "I will follow you wherever you go." 58 And Jesus said to him, "Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head." 59 To another he said, "Follow me." But he said, "Lord, first let me go and bury my father." 60 But Jesus said to him, "Let the dead bury their own dead; but as for you, go and proclaim the kingdom of God." 61 Another said, "I will follow you, Lord; but let me first say farewell to those at my home." 62 Jesus said to him, "No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God."

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If the stories in the Bible all began with "Once upon a time" and ended with "and they all lived happily ever after" we wouldn't have to ponder long over confusing and sometimes seemingly contradictory passages. However, the closest we come to "once upon a time" in the Bible could very well be the opening lines of Genesis: "In the beginning God . . ."

The gospel readings for the next several days are from Luke. To better understand the writer who is credited with this version of the Gospel, read the prologue to Luke as found in The New Jerusalem Bible. "Seeing that many others have undertaken to draw up accounts of the events that have reached their fulfillment among us, as these were handed down to us by those who from the outset were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word, I in my turn, after carefully going over the whole story from the beginning, have decided to write an ordered account for you, Theophilus, so that you may learn how well founded the teaching is that you have received."

To tell the story so beautifully, as Luke does, he had to know the stories of his Jewish heritage. For us to access the wealth of information given in today's few verses of Luke's gospel, we also must look back into the stories of the Old Testament to understand why James and John (named "Sons of Thunder" by Jesus) would offer to "command fire to come down from heaven and consume them". (Look in 2 Kings 1:10-16 for the story. A hint: it is about the prophet Elijah.) With that bit of history as background, I can imagine Jesus' rebuke might have been, "Okay, you Sons of Thunder! Cut out the nonsense! We're traveling through Samaritan territory and you know how Samaritans feel about us Jews cutting across their land as we go on pilgrimage to Jerusalem!"

Read the stories, all of them, and you'll begin getting a better feel for how this wonderful adventure story all fits together from "In the beginning God. . . " all the way through to "May the grace of the Lord Jesus be with you all. Amen."

thoughts of a fellow traveler - DMc

Daily Devotional, Sunday, October 19

Collect of the Day
Almighty God, you have revealed to your Church your eternal Being of glorious majesty and perfect love as one God in Trinity of Persons: Give us grace to continue steadfast in the confession of this faith, and constant in our worship of you, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; for you live and reign, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Gospel Reading of the Day, Matthew 16:13-20
13 Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, "Who do people say that the Son of Man is?" 14 And they said, "Some say John the Baptist, but others Elijah, and still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets." 15 He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" 16 Simon Peter answered, "You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God." 17 And Jesus answered him, "Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father in heaven. 18 And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it. 19 I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven." 20 Then he sternly ordered the disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Messiah.

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"Then he sternly ordered the disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Messiah."

Have you ever known something so wonderful, so exciting, so incredibly amazing you could hardly wait to shout the news from the roof tops, to share it with any who would listen? Except you couldn't! You have been instructed, "sternly ordered" not to tell.

When Simon Peter identified Jesus as "the Messiah, the Son of the living God", Jesus' response to Peter was a most positive one. It could easily be understood as a reward: ". . . you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church." (Some scholars believe neither the Greek word petros nor its Aramaic equivalent kepha meaning "rock" was used as a personal name before Jesus conferred it on the disciple Simon Peter. Ref. The New Jerusalem Bible). Immediately after this confirmation of Peter's answer and a commissioning of Peter's role in God's Kingdom, Jesus "sternly ordered the disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Messiah."

For the continuation of the story and, perhaps, the beginning of understanding of this strange order, read the next few verses in Matthew's gospel. There was a plan! Jesus had a reason. (Matt. 16:21)

So what does this have to do with you and me? Do we still live as if we are under this "stern order" not to tell that Jesus is the Messiah? Or do we live as children of God, knowing the resurrection power of Jesus, the Messiah? Do we joyfully share the amazing news to all who will listen that Jesus is King, he's King of the Kingdom, and the kingdom is coming for you and me! Who will you tell today that Jesus is the promised Messiah? Start with yourself!

thoughts of a fellow traveler - DMc

Daily Devotional, Saturday, October 18

Collect of the Day
Almighty God, who after the creation of the world rested from all your works and sanctified a day of rest for all your creatures: Grant that we, putting away all earthly anxieties, may be duly prepared for the service of your sanctuary, and that our rest here upon earth may be a preparation for the eternal rest promised to your people in heaven; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Gospel Reading of the Day, Luke 4:14-21
14 Then Jesus, filled with the power of the Spirit, returned to Galilee, and a report about him spread through all the surrounding country. 15 He began to teach in their synagogues and was praised by everyone. 16 When he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, he went to the synagogue on the sabbath day, as was his custom. He stood up to read, 17 and the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was given to him. He unrolled the scroll and found the place where it was written: 18 "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, 19 to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor." 20 And he rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant, and sat down. The eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on him. 21 Then he began to say to them, "Today this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing."


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For years this has been one of my favorite Gospel readings (also St. Luke's Feast Day). This appears to be the biblical and theological text for Jesus' entire ministry. And notice, he was reading from the book of Isaiah. This was more than Jesus. This was and is a description of God's mission and ministry through his people for centuries!!! This has been and is God's transforming desire and love at work generation after generation. Jesus gave himself to fulfilling this ministry and calling disciples to join him in this divine and redemptive way of being in the world.

I cannot help but see that this is the way of being Christ-people, Christian, in the world today. God's desire and love has not changed. What Jesus read and said that day in his hometown is not only a description of his mission, but also what it means to be Church -- to fulfill our Baptismal Covenant -- to be the extension of Jesus' ministry today. I find that challenging and encouraging and sometimes intimidating -- but what a privilege!

Having said that, remember what happened to Jesus after his reading and declaration? The people became angry and tried to stone him to death. Too often we have quietly and slowly domesticated Jesus and his ministry in such a way as to make us all too comfortable -- to make Jesus like us and not us like Jesus. To take seriously Jesus' message in a broken world, means being on the cutting edge of the church and culture with the Good News of God which is not always received as good news. That is why the transformation must begin with us before we can truly share in Jesus' ministry and proclamation. Only then can we be authentic and be willing to take the risks necessary to follow in the way of Jesus.

Blessings,

Fr. Lee+

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Daily Devotional, Friday, October 17

Collect of the Day
Almighty God, whose most dear Son went not up to joy but first he suffered pain, and entered not into glory before he was crucified: Mercifully grant that we, walking in the way of the cross, may find it none other than the way of life and peace; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord. Amen.

Gospel Reading of the Day, Luke 9:28-36
28 Now about eight days after these sayings Jesus took with him Peter and John and James, and went up on the mountain to pray. 29 And while he was praying, the appearance of his face changed, and his clothes became dazzling white. 30 Suddenly they saw two men, Moses and Elijah, talking to him. 31 They appeared in glory and were speaking of his departure, which he was about to accomplish at Jerusalem. 32 Now Peter and his companions were weighed down with sleep; but since they had stayed awake, they saw his glory and the two men who stood with him. 33 Just as they were leaving him, Peter said to Jesus, "Master, it is good for us to be here; let us make three dwellings, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah"—not knowing what he said. 34 While he was saying this, a cloud came and overshadowed them; and they were terrified as they entered the cloud. 35 Then from the cloud came a voice that said, "This is my Son, my Chosen; listen to him!" 36 When the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone. And they kept silent and in those days told no one any of the things they had seen.

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This is of course the story of the Transfiguration and is a mystical experience. Jesus seems to have been accustomed to such experiences – but not the disciples. Indeed, this is one of the unique aspects of Jesus’ life. A mystical experience goes beyond an awareness of God’s presence or even what we sometimes call a “thin place” where the boundary between God and the person is almost transparent. In a mystical experience the person becomes filled with God’s Spirit – God’s presence is experienced in a remarkable and inexplicable way. The boundaries between God and the person seem to be completely crossed over for a moment or a more extended time – often minutes, but can be more. All of reality seems to be transformed in these moments – there is no difference between heaven and earth, the secular and the sacred and human and divine.

This was consistently a part of Jesus’ life – especially as reported and portrayed in the Gospel of John. The transfiguration, which is recorded in each of the Gospels, is a wonderful example. The disciples also experienced this mystical encounter, but it seemed new and beyond their comprehension. No doubt it was a life-changing, faith-enriching moment from which they drew hope and courage in the future. We know that Peter and John had mystical experiences of their own which gave them insight and encouragement.

When I first started reading some of Marcus Borg’s books, I was impressed by his confessional and self-revealing way of writing. He made references to the being raised in the church as a person of faith, but that his images of God and his childhood faith began to fail him. He shares how he gradually became a “closet agnostic.” In his books he goes on to tell about his studies and work as a Jesus scholar. Borg is knowledgeable and inspiring as he deals with the scripture in general and with the life and ministry of Jesus in particular.

I had often wondered how he made the leap from being an agnostic to becoming a renowned Jesus scholar –clearly a man of faith. A year or so I heard Borg speak at Trinity in Tulsa. During a Q &A period there was a brief lull so I dared to ask him what happened – that I sensed something happened that changed him. I sat spellbound as he described a series of mystical experiences which had a transforming effect on him. While has not had any of these experiences in recent years, these mystical experiences continue to influence his writings, presentations – his life and faith. He also described his daily spiritual disciplines which continue to shape and encourage him – and I believe keeps him open to that which is mystical even now.

Mystical experiences may be the exception rather than the rule, but I think it is important to stay open to the possibility. Indeed, our daily spiritual disciplines provide a way for us to always be ready – perhaps even anticipating a moment when the boundaries between heaven and earth are dissolved. I know this is true –for I have been there – and oh my, the wonder.

Peace,
Fr. Lee+

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Daily Devotional, Thursday, October 16

Collect of the Day
Almighty and most merciful God, grant that by the indwelling of your Holy Spirit we may be enlightened and strengthened for your service; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Gospel Reading of the Day, Luke 9:18-27
18 Once when Jesus was praying alone, with only the disciples near him, he asked them, "Who do the crowds say that I am?" 19 They answered, "John the Baptist; but others, Elijah; and still others, that one of the ancient prophets has arisen." 20 He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" Peter answered, "The Messiah of God." 21 He sternly ordered and commanded them not to tell anyone, 22 saying, "The Son of Man must undergo great suffering, and be rejected by the elders, chief priests, and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised." 23 Then he said to them all, "If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. 24 For those who want to save their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake will save it. 25 What does it profit them if they gain the whole world, but lose or forfeit themselves? 26 Those who are ashamed of me and of my words, of them the Son of Man will be ashamed when he comes in his glory and the glory of the Father and of the holy angels. 27 But truly I tell you, there are some standing here who will not taste death before they see the kingdom of God."

Daily Devotion

Jesus asked this disciples, "But who do you say that I am?"

What a question! Talk about being direct! In the post-resurrection period, in the early church, that had to be a key question. How a person answered would determine the direction they would take in their faith-life. To answer that Jesus was the Christ was to take up your cross and follow in his way of love and sacrifice.

Jesus' question is just as relevant today -- not in biblical time, but in our time. To say Jesus was the "Christ of God" calls for a particular way of life that is patterned after our Lord. But if our answer varies according to circumstances, friendships, business plans, political loyalties --or whatever variable there may be -- we have just placed conditions and exceptions on our relationship and identification with Christ. That leads to a divided life where we simply use our faith, our relationship with Jesus, when it is to our advantage.

The way of faithfulness and integrity is summed up in one verse (one of my favorites and most challenging) -- "If any man would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me." May God grant us grace, courage and clarity to faithfully follow.
Peace,
Fr. Lee+

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Daily Devotional, Wednesday, October 15

Collect of the Day
O God, who wonderfully created, and yet more wonderfully restored, the dignity of human nature: rant that we may share the divine life of him who humbled himself to share our humanity, your Son Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Gospel Reading of the Day, Luke 9:1-17
1 Then Jesus called the twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, 2 and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal. 3 He said to them, "Take nothing for your journey, no staff, nor bag, nor bread, nor money—not even an extra tunic. 4 Whatever house you enter, stay there, and leave from there. 5 Wherever they do not welcome you, as you are leaving that town shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them." 6 They departed and went through the villages, bringing the good news and curing diseases everywhere. 7 Now Herod the ruler heard about all that had taken place, and he was perplexed, because it was said by some that John had been raised from the dead, 8 by some that Elijah had appeared, and by others that one of the ancient prophets had arisen. 9 Herod said, "John I beheaded; but who is this about whom I hear such things?" And he tried to see him.
10 On their return the apostles told Jesus all they had done. He took them with him and withdrew privately to a city called Bethsaida. 11 When the crowds found out about it, they followed him; and he welcomed them, and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and healed those who needed to be cured. 12 The day was drawing to a close, and the twelve came to him and said, "Send the crowd away, so that they may go into the surrounding villages and countryside, to lodge and get provisions; for we are here in a deserted place." 13 But he said to them, "You give them something to eat." They said, "We have no more than five loaves and two fish—unless we are to go and buy food for all these people." 14 For there were about five thousand men. And he said to his disciples, "Make them sit down in groups of about fifty each." 15 They did so and made them all sit down. 16 And taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven, and blessed and broke them, and gave them to the disciples to set before the crowd. 17 And all ate and were filled. What was left over was gathered up, twelve baskets of broken pieces.

Daily Devotion

This is a story of contrasts in the same Gospel lesson. Notice Jesus entrusted and empowered the disciples to carry on his ministry. Low and bold, they were quite successful. Indeed, they were eager to report back how well everything had gone. They had learned from the master and successfully carried out their practicum. We know from our vantage point this was a foreshadowing of their mission, Jesus’ mission for them, after his death and resurrection.

Apparently they were indeed successful on their mission, but then came the opportunity to feed the five thousand men plus women and children. Suddenly they lost their vision – their mission with Jesus. When Jesus told them to feed the people, they suddenly forgot about the mission and power Jesus had given them. They became helpless and hopeless again. They sold themselves short – and Jesus – and God working through them.

How is it that we can be so full of faith, living the Christian life with confidence and reaching out to touch others with God’s grace and suddenly our faith seems to crater? We can be actively doing good things, even holy things, for a while – then something happens and we lose confidence and hope. I hate it when that happens to me.

The feeding of the multitude is considered a reflection of what we call the Holy Eucharist. Communion is a sacrament that continually feeds and empowers us for the work of Christ’s ministry. Is it possible that the disciples in their successes had lost focus on Jesus’ mission and were feeling a bit too good about themselves? The miraculous feeding of the multitudes, like the Eucharist, puts us back in touch with Jesus’ saving way of being in the world and inspires/empowers us to follow. That is why the Eucharist is so important to my ministry and daily life.
Peace,
Fr. Lee

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Daily Devotion, Tuesday, October 14

Collect of the Day
Lord, we pray that your grace may always precede and follow us, that we may continually be given to good works; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Gospel Reading of the Day, Luke 8:40-56
40 Now when Jesus returned, the crowd welcomed him, for they were all waiting for him. 41Just then there came a man named Jairus, a leader of the synagogue. He fell at Jesus’ feet and begged him to come to his house, 42for he had an only daughter, about twelve years old, who was dying.
As he went, the crowds pressed in on him. 43Now there was a woman who had been suffering from haemorrhages for twelve years; and though she had spent all she had on physicians,* no one could cure her. 44She came up behind him and touched the fringe of his clothes, and immediately her haemorrhage stopped. 45Then Jesus asked, ‘Who touched me?’ When all denied it, Peter said, ‘Master, the crowds surround you and press in on you.’ 46But Jesus said, ‘Someone touched me; for I noticed that power had gone out from me.’ 47When the woman saw that she could not remain hidden, she came trembling; and falling down before him, she declared in the presence of all the people why she had touched him, and how she had been immediately healed. 48He said to her, ‘Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace.’
49 While he was still speaking, someone came from the leader’s house to say, ‘Your daughter is dead; do not trouble the teacher any longer.’ 50When Jesus heard this, he replied, ‘Do not fear. Only believe, and she will be saved.’ 51When he came to the house, he did not allow anyone to enter with him, except Peter, John, and James, and the child’s father and mother. 52They were all weeping and wailing for her; but he said, ‘Do not weep; for she is not dead but sleeping.’ 53And they laughed at him, knowing that she was dead. 54But he took her by the hand and called out, ‘Child, get up!’ 55Her spirit returned, and she got up at once. Then he directed them to give her something to eat. 56Her parents were astounded; but he ordered them to tell no one what had happened.

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In the midst of the crowd and on the way to another miracle Jesus said, “Who was it that touched me…Some one touched me; for I perceive that power has gone forth from me.”

Jesus touched a lot of lives in this three-year ministry. In mind, body and spirit lives were healed and empowered. And, for all the people he intentionally touched, many more were blessed as they witnessed/experienced his teachings and miracles. Clearly a loving and transforming power in word and deed was operative – and more.

When someone dies, it isn’t unusual to hear people testify how their friend or loved one had “touched” their lives. Some of the stories are quite remarkable and moving – others are simple, meaningful and heartwarming. These stories demonstrate the power to bless everyone possesses – this is all the more true when it is Christ in us touching others and grace enriches and empowers lives. These are the best stories – faith-value added.

Having said that, on this occasion Jesus knew someone unknown to him had touched him – he felt power going out of him to another person. Jesus was so “full of God” that lives were transformed not only when he intentionally touched someone or someone saw and heard him – but also\when people sought to be in his presence and intentionally touch him – and he felt the flow of the Spirit from him to another.

Could you and I be so “full of God” that we could bless someone not only by saying and doing good things – not only by offering love as Christ has loved us – not only by seeking to bless everyone on our path – but also by people reaching out and touching us when we are not looking and experience the grace of God flowing from us to them? Has that ever happened to you? Can people see that profound faith-life in you? What would it take to be that Christ-like?

Peace,
Fr. Lee Stephens

Daily Devotional, Saturday, October 12

Collect of the Day
Almighty God, who after the creation of the world rested from all your works and sanctified a day of rest for all your creatures: Grant that we, putting away all earthly anxieties, may be duly prepared for the service of your sanctuary, and that our rest here upon earth may be a preparation for the eternal rest promised to your people in heaven; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Gospel Reading of the Day, Luke 8: 16 -25
16 "No one after lighting a lamp hides it under a jar, or puts it under a bed, but puts it on a lampstand, so that those who enter may see the light. 17 For nothing is hidden that will not be disclosed, nor is anything secret that will not become known and come to light. 18 Then pay attention to how you listen; for to those who have, more will be given; and from those who do not have, even what they seem to have will be taken away." 19 Then his mother and his brothers came to him, but they could not reach him because of the crowd. 20 And he was told, "Your mother and your brothers are standing outside, wanting to see you." 21 But he said to them, "My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and do it."
22 One day he got into a boat with his disciples, and he said to them, "Let us go across to the other side of the lake." So they put out, 23 and while they were sailing he fell asleep. A windstorm swept down on the lake, and the boat was filling with water, and they were in danger. 24 They went to him and woke him up, shouting, "Master, Master, we are perishing!" And he woke up and rebuked the wind and the raging waves; they ceased, and there was a calm. 25 He said to them, "Where is your faith?" They were afraid and amazed, and said to one another, "Who then is this, that he commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him?"

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Continue to learn from Jesus and live what you learn. Continue to share your light and become more like Him. There is no secret knowledge that Jesus will hold from you. As you learn and obey and share, you will be graced with more learning to live and share. You need not be afraid. If you do fear, turn to and hold on to your faith. You are God’s children and the storms of life, even death, will not destroy you.

There are some storms in life from which career, status, salary, title, etc. can not rescue. What can rescue is Jesus. Even during the storms that destroy career, status, salary, title, etc., Jesus is not destroyed; with Jesus, in Jesus you are not destroyed, you never die. Even though you physically die, with Jesus, in Jesus you are not destroyed; you never die. When the storms of life threaten, when the storms of life destroy, hold onto your faith.

Max Lucado reminds in Grace for the Moment, pg 262, that when we come to know God as creator, we find admiration. When we find God’s wisdom, we learn. When we come to know God’s strength, we come to rely on God. When we find God saving us, we worship.

May God bless your growth in faith and your worship of Him who saves you from all the storms of life. May you, dear children of God, be blessed with the love of God through Jesus the Christ, be blessed with His abundant love to share.

Blessings, Mthr. Mary Lou Mannschreck

Daily Devotional, Friday, October 10

Collect of the Day
Almighty God, whose most dear Son went not up to joy but first he suffered pain, and entered not into glory before he was crucified: Mercifully grant that we, walking in the way of the cross, may find it none other than the way of life and peace; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord. Amen.

Gospel Reading of the Day, Luke 8:1-15
1 Soon afterwards he went on through cities and villages, proclaiming and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God. The twelve were with him, 2 as well as some women who had been cured of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, 3 and Joanna, the wife of Herod's steward Chuza, and Susanna, and many others, who provided for them out of their resources.
4 When a great crowd gathered and people from town after town came to him, he said in a parable: 5 "A sower went out to sow his seed; and as he sowed, some fell on the path and was trampled on, and the birds of the air ate it up. 6 Some fell on the rock; and as it grew up, it withered for lack of moisture. 7 Some fell among thorns, and the thorns grew with it and choked it. 8 Some fell into good soil, and when it grew, it produced a hundredfold." As he said this, he called out, "Let anyone with ears to hear listen!" 9 Then his disciples asked him what this parable meant. 10 He said, "To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of God; but to others I speak in parables, so that "looking they may not perceive, and listening they may not understand.' 11 "Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. 12 The ones on the path are those who have heard; then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts, so that they may not believe and be saved. 13 The ones on the rock are those who, when they hear the word, receive it with joy. But these have no root; they believe only for a while and in a time of testing fall away. 14 As for what fell among the thorns, these are the ones who hear; but as they go on their way, they are choked by the cares and riches and pleasures of life, and their fruit does not mature. 15 But as for that in the good soil, these are the ones who, when they hear the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bear fruit with patient endurance.

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Hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bear fruit with patient endurance –When you come to know Jesus and the Kingdom of God, hold on tight and let nothing dissuade you nor take it away, no matter how strong the temptation of life’s pleasures and riches or cares. They have a short life. It is life in the Kingdom that is everlasting and a priceless gift.

To know about the Kingdom is a gift. Jesus is a gift. When we encounter the love of God through Jesus we are transformed into one who receives and shares that love. Sometimes we falter. We don’t always understand all the mysteries of the Kingdom. But, with patience, no matter how severe are the obstacles, we endure - we faithfully rely on God to preserve life in the Kingdom; we take care of our souls.

To know Jesus is to know the gift of adoption as God’s child and to know our lives are at home in Him and He is at home in our lives. We endure because of who we are and whose we are. Max Lucado explains our gift from God: “Because of his justice, he can not dismiss your sin, but because of his love he can not dismiss you. So, in an act which stunned the heavens, he punished himself on the cross for your sins….It would be enough if God just cleansed your name, but he does more. He gives you his name” (Grace for the Moment: Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year, p.40).

“And here I offer and present to you, O Lord, myself, my soul, and body, to be a reasonable, holy, and living sacrifice to you….I give of all the days and hours of my life. I give of my strengths and of my weaknesses. I give of my talents. I give of my treasure, the work of my hands. I give of my joys and of my sorrows. I give from the places of darkness within me as well as from the places of light. I give of my whole self, holding nothing back” (Elliott, Kristin M. and Betty Kay Seibt. Holding Your Prayers in Your Hands: Praying The Anglican Rosary, p. 27).

God Bless the love you receive and the love you share.
God Bless those who receive your love.
God Bless you.

Blessings, Mthr. Mary Lou

Daily Devotional, Thursday, October 9

Collect of the Day
Heavenly Father, in you we live and move and have our being: We humbly pray you so to guide and govern us by your Holy Spirit, that in all the cares and occupations of our life we may not forget you, but may remember that we are ever walking in your sight; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Gospel Reading of the the Day, Luke 7: 36-50
36 One of the Pharisees asked Jesus to eat with him, and he went into the Pharisee's house and took his place at the table. 37 And a woman in the city, who was a sinner, having learned that he was eating in the Pharisee's house, brought an alabaster jar of ointment. 38 She stood behind him at his feet, weeping, and began to bathe his feet with her tears and to dry them with her hair. Then she continued kissing his feet and anointing them with the ointment. 39 Now when the Pharisee who had invited him saw it, he said to himself, "If this man were a prophet, he would have known who and what kind of woman this is who is touching him—that she is a sinner." 40 Jesus spoke up and said to him, "Simon, I have something to say to you." "Teacher," he replied, "speak." 41 "A certain creditor had two debtors; one owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. 42 When they could not pay, he canceled the debts for both of them. Now which of them will love him more?" 43 Simon answered, "I suppose the one for whom he canceled the greater debt." And Jesus said to him, "You have judged rightly." 44 Then turning toward the woman, he said to Simon, "Do you see this woman? I entered your house; you gave me no water for my feet, but she has bathed my feet with her tears and dried them with her hair. 45 You gave me no kiss, but from the time I came in she has not stopped kissing my feet. 46 You did not anoint my head with oil, but she has anointed my feet with ointment. 47 Therefore, I tell you, her sins, which were many, have been forgiven; hence she has shown great love. But the one to whom little is forgiven, loves little." 48 Then he said to her, "Your sins are forgiven." 49 But those who were at the table with him began to say among themselves, "Who is this who even forgives sins?" 50 And he said to the woman, "Your faith has saved you; go in peace."

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The more we get to know Jesus, the more our relationship with Our Lord develops, the more we are aware of how much we are forgiven, of how great is the gap between us finite humans and the infinite God of all, of how much mercy and grace and hope the gift of Christ brings so that we might be in God’s presence, of how much we are loved by our triune God, of how the God of the universe, and all that is, longs for us to be aware of God’s presence.

The more we love Our Lord, the more we become aware of how much we are forgiven. The woman in today’s gospel reading was aware. The Pharisee in today’s gospel reading seems more aware of the woman’s need of forgiveness than his own. The woman’s faith saved her. I trust that the Pharisee’s faith grew that day as Our Lord spoke with him.

Cistercian priest, monk, and abbot, Thomas Keating reminds us that “There are all kinds of ways in which God speaks to us – through our thoughts or any one of our faculties. But keep in mind that God’s first language is silence….Pure faith will bring you closer to God than anything else” (Open Mind, Open Heart: The Contemplative Dimension of the Gospel, p. 57).

From Praying with the Celtic Saints: Companions for the Journey by Mary C. Earle and Sylvia Maddox, p. 46:

“Be thou my vision, O Lord of my heart,
Naught be all else to me, save that thou art.
Thou my best thought by day or by night,
Waking or sleeping, Thy presence my light."
(An ancient Irish hymn)

Re-read the above hymn and give yourself permission to sit in silence for just five minutes, savoring just simply being in Our Lord’s precious presence.

Blessings, Mthr Mary Lou Mannschreck

Daily Devotional, Wednesday, October 8

Collect of the Day
Lord God, almighty and everlasting Father, you have brought us in safety to this new day: Preserve us with your mighty power, that we may not fall into sin, nor be overcome by adversity; and in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Gospel Reading of the Day, Luke 7:18-35
18 The disciples of John reported all these things to him. So John summoned two of his disciples 19 and sent them to the Lord to ask, "Are you the one who is to come, or are we to wait for another?" 20 When the men had come to him, they said, "John the Baptist has sent us to you to ask, "Are you the one who is to come, or are we to wait for another?' " 21 Jesus had just then cured many people of diseases, plagues, and evil spirits, and had given sight to many who were blind. 22 And he answered them, "Go and tell John what you have seen and heard: the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, the poor have good news brought to them. 23 And blessed is anyone who takes no offense at me." 24 When John's messengers had gone, Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John: "What did you go out into the wilderness to look at? A reed shaken by the wind? 25 What then did you go out to see? Someone dressed in soft robes? Look, those who put on fine clothing and live in luxury are in royal palaces. 26 What then did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. 27 This is the one about whom it is written, "See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you.' 28 I tell you, among those born of women no one is greater than John; yet the least in the kingdom of God is greater than he." 29 (And all the people who heard this, including the tax collectors, acknowledged the justice of God, because they had been baptized with John's baptism. 30 But by refusing to be baptized by him, the Pharisees and the lawyers rejected God's purpose for themselves.) 31 "To what then will I compare the people of this generation, and what are they like? 32 They are like children sitting in the marketplace and calling to one another, "We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we wailed, and you did not weep.' 33 For John the Baptist has come eating no bread and drinking no wine, and you say, "He has a demon'; 34 the Son of Man has come eating and drinking, and you say, "Look, a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!' 35 Nevertheless, wisdom is vindicated by all her children."

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Nevertheless, wisdom is vindicated by all her children – The children of wisdom are those who hear and follow God’s instruction. John the Baptist was considered the greatest human until the era of the Kingdom of God. Even the least in the Kingdom is greater than John. You are in the Kingdom. See how much you are loved and valued. See what a gift Jesus brings to you. There is no greater love than the love of God through Jesus the Christ. You are loved.

Roy Lessin, one of the founders of Dayspring Cards, reminds us that from the “tender heart of God” we start life with the gifts of our body, spirit, breath, air, water, seeds for planting, and all the created world. Through Christ we receive “forgiveness, eternal life, the Holy Spirit, and fellowship with God…” and more. From the tender and generous heart of God you receive gifts of abundant love. This precious love you can share with others – from God’s heart to your heart to others’ heart. God through Jesus wants to “give through your hands, smile through your face, care through your heart, speak through your voice, and shine through your eyes” (From God’s Heart to Yours, pp. 5, 13).

“Almighty and eternal God, so draw our hearts to you, so guide our minds, so fill our imaginations, so control our wills, that we may be wholly yours, utterly dedicated to you; and then use us, we pray, as you will, and always to your glory and the welfare of your people; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen” (BCP pp. 832-833.)

Blessings, dear children, Mthr. Mary Lou Mannschreck

Daily Devotional, Tuesday, October 7

Collect of the Day
O God, the author of peace and lover of concord, to know you is eternal life and to serve you is perfect freedom: Defend us, your humble servants, in all assaults of our enemies; that we, surely trusting in your defense, may not fear the power of any adversaries; through the might of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Gospel Reading of the Day, Luke 7: 1-17
1 After Jesus had finished all his sayings in the hearing of the people, he entered Capernaum. 2 A centurion there had a slave whom he valued highly, and who was ill and close to death. 3 When he heard about Jesus, he sent some Jewish elders to him, asking him to come and heal his slave. 4 When they came to Jesus, they appealed to him earnestly, saying, "He is worthy of having you do this for him, 5 for he loves our people, and it is he who built our synagogue for us." 6 And Jesus went with them, but when he was not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to say to him, "Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you come under my roof; 7 therefore I did not presume to come to you. But only speak the word, and let my servant be healed. 8 For I also am a man set under authority, with soldiers under me; and I say to one, "Go,' and he goes, and to another, "Come,' and he comes, and to my slave, "Do this,' and the slave does it." 9 When Jesus heard this he was amazed at him, and turning to the crowd that followed him, he said, "I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith." 10 When those who had been sent returned to the house, they found the slave in good health.
11 Soon afterwards he went to a town called Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd went with him. 12 As he approached the gate of the town, a man who had died was being carried out. He was his mother's only son, and she was a widow; and with her was a large crowd from the town. 13 When the Lord saw her, he had compassion for her and said to her, "Do not weep." 14 Then he came forward and touched the bier, and the bearers stood still. And he said, "Young man, I say to you, rise!" 15 The dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesus gave him to his mother. 16 Fear seized all of them; and they glorified God, saying, "A great prophet has risen among us!" and "God has looked favorably on his people!" 17 This word about him spread throughout Judea and all the surrounding country.

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Even in crisis we are a blessed people. There is nothing that will remove God’s love from us. That is immeasurable love and that is blessing on blessing. As with the centurion, some blessings we have talked to the Lord about before receiving them. As with the widow, some blessings just come unexpectedly. Blessings come in all sorts of expressions, thoughts, actions, states of being, circumstances, etc. Blessings pronounce God’s love and favor toward us. Even in crisis when we begin to count our blessings, even a shadow of God’s immeasurable love can overwhelm us.

One response to this immeasurable love is to love back, loving God and self and others.

“O God, I bless you with my whole heart and soul.
In honor I invoke your holy name.
Each day I bless you, God of all.
never will I forget the good you have meant to me.
It is you who forgives me, every sin,
it is you who heals my infirmities within,
It is you who reaches for me even in the grave
and lifts me up and gives me life again.
For you alone fill all of life with good,
and young again I soar on eagle’s wings in you.
For as the heavens stretch out into infinity,
we swim your mercy, Lord, as in an endless sea.
And like a parent who tenderly loves a child,
so deep in love are you with those who honor you.”

May this prayer from page 50 of The Anglican Rosary by Lynn C. Bauman be a blessing to you.

Blessings, Mthr. Mary Lou Mannschreck

Daily Devotional, Monday, October 6

Collect of the Day
O God, the King eternal, whose light divides the day from the night and turns the shadow of death into the morning: Drive far from us all wrong desires, incline our hearts to keep your law, and guide our feet into the way of peace; that, having done your will with cheerfulness during the day, we may, when night comes, rejoice to give you thanks; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Gospel Reading of the Day, Luke 6: 39-49
39 He also told them a parable: "Can a blind person guide a blind person? Will not both fall into a pit? 40 A disciple is not above the teacher, but everyone who is fully qualified will be like the teacher. 41 Why do you see the speck in your neighbor's eye, but do not notice the log in your own eye? 42 Or how can you say to your neighbor, "Friend, let me take out the speck in your eye,' when you yourself do not see the log in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your neighbor's eye. 43 "No good tree bears bad fruit, nor again does a bad tree bear good fruit; 44 for each tree is known by its own fruit. Figs are not gathered from thorns, nor are grapes picked from a bramble bush. 45 The good person out of the good treasure of the heart produces good, and the evil person out of evil treasure produces evil; for it is out of the abundance of the heart that the mouth speaks. 46 "Why do you call me "Lord, Lord,' and do not do what I tell you? 47 I will show you what someone is like who comes to me, hears my words, and acts on them. 48 That one is like a man building a house, who dug deeply and laid the foundation on rock; when a flood arose, the river burst against that house but could not shake it, because it had been well built. 49 But the one who hears and does not act is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. When the river burst against it, immediately it fell, and great was the ruin of that house."

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Are you healthy in all aspects of your life – spiritual, emotional, intellectual, physical, social, economical, political, philanthropic, etc.?

Once again Jesus is teaching us that faith is a verb. It is important for us to live what we believe Jesus is teaching us. We are congruent when we hear the Word and Act. We are to teach ourselves before we teach others. Criticize ourselves before we criticize others. Help ourselves before we help others. Or in other words, we are to serve from our wholeness. To do so is to be respectful of those we serve. To do so is one way of loving our neighbors as ourselves. Jesus often communicates to them and to us by using the Scribes and Pharisees as his examples; they need to do more than just say and teach the right things; they need to live them. And, we do also.

When we take care of ourselves and live our faith, we will produce good fruits of a healthy spirit. Taking care of ourselves produces a good heart and a good heart produces good fruit. A good heart produces good teaching and good helping and good service for the betterment of others. To hear the Word and Act is being a congruent person, a strong person built on a firm foundation with a secure life that lasts beyond death.

Kristin M. Elliott and Betty Kay Seibt offer this prayer, based on 1 Corinthians and the writings of John Wesley, from their book Holding Your Prayers in Your Hands: Praying The Anglican Rosary:

“There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit….There are different kinds
Of working, but the same God works all of them in all men….
By God’s power we will live with Christ to serve.
Lord, help me to do all the good I can,
By all the means I can,
In all the ways I can,
In all the places I can,
In all the times I can,
To all the people I can,
As long as ever I can. “ (pg. 41)

Take care of yourselves. Be filled with the Lord’s love for you and serve well.

Blessings, Mthr. Mary Lou

Daily Devotional, Sunday, October 5

Collect of the Day
Almighty and everlasting God, you are always more ready to hear than we to pray, and to give more than we either desire or deserve: Pour upon us the abundance of your mercy, forgiving us those things of which our conscience is afraid, and giving us those good things for which we are not worthy to ask, except through the merits and mediation of Jesus Christ our Savior; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Gospel Reading of the Day, Matt 14:1-12
1 At that time Herod the ruler heard reports about Jesus; 2 and he said to his servants, "This is John the Baptist; he has been raised from the dead, and for this reason these powers are at work in him." 3 For Herod had arrested John, bound him, and put him in prison on account of Herodias, his brother Philip's wife, 4 because John had been telling him, "It is not lawful for you to have her." 5 Though Herod wanted to put him to death, he feared the crowd, because they regarded him as a prophet. 6 But when Herod's birthday came, the daughter of Herodias danced before the company, and she pleased Herod 7 so much that he promised on oath to grant her whatever she might ask. 8 Prompted by her mother, she said, "Give me the head of John the Baptist here on a platter." 9 The king was grieved, yet out of regard for his oaths and for the guests, he commanded it to be given; 10 he sent and had John beheaded in the prison. 11 The head was brought on a platter and given to the girl, who brought it to her mother. 12 His disciples came and took the body and buried it; then they went and told Jesus.

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Oh the things we humans allow to control us: sexual attraction and maneuvering around the law for personal gain, saving face and prestige among peers, never wavering from a decision once declared, protecting our positions of power and influence, revenge and more. And, oh the consequences of snap decisions before giving enough thought to the consequences.

Herod and Herodias certainly seem to be examples of the above.

John the Baptist was a victim of others’ decisions. He made decisions to proclaim the way of righteousness and the coming of the One greater than he. The earthly consequences included that he was beheaded. The earthly consequences also included that even after his death, when Herod heard about what Jesus was doing, Herod thought that Jesus was John the Baptist raised from the dead. John certainly had influence and Jesus’ had even more.

Bad things happen to people who make good decisions and bad things happen to people because others make bad decisions. Bad things happen to people beyond their control. There is unfairness in this world.

Last week the Young Disciples talked about how they experience the unfairness of life. We closed our discussion with a familiar prayer:

“God grant me the serenity
To accept the things I cannot change,
The courage to change the things I can,
And the wisdom to know the difference. Amen.”

Blessings,
Mthr. Mary Lou Mannschreck

Daily Devotional, Saturday, October 4

Collect of the Day
Almighty God, who after the creation of the world rested from all your works and sanctified a day of rest for all your creatures: Grant that we, putting away all earthly anxieties, may be duly prepared for the service of your sanctuary, and that our rest here upon earth may be a preparation for the eternal rest promised to your people in heaven; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Scripture Reading of the Day, Hosea 11: 1-9
1 When Israel was a child, I loved him, and out of Egypt I called my son. 2 The more I called them, the more they went from me; they kept sacrificing to the Baals, and offering incense to idols. 3 Yet it was I who taught Ephraim to walk, I took them up in my arms; but they did not know that I healed them. 4 I led them with cords of human kindness, with bands of love. I was to them like those who lift infants to their cheeks. I bent down to them and fed them. 5 They shall return to the land of Egypt, and Assyria shall be their king, because they have refused to return to me. 6 The sword rages in their cities, it consumes their oracle-priests, and devours because of their schemes. 7 My people are bent on turning away from me. To the Most High they call, but he does not raise them up at all.
8 How can I give you up, Ephraim? How can I hand you over, O Israel? How can I make you like Admah? How can I treat you like Zeboiim? My heart recoils within me; my compassion grows warm and tender. 9 I will not execute my fierce anger; I will not again destroy Ephraim; for I am God and no mortal, the Holy One in your midst, and I will not come in wrath.

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“…for I am God, and no mortal, the Holy One of Israel, and I will not come in wrath.”

This emotional scripture, written by the prophet Hosea, tugs at the heart. It places us within the heart and mind of our creator and recalls our own wrestling when we were disappointed with our own children. We had to allow the thoughts of resentment and revenge to sweep powerfully but swiftly across our consciousness, but as soon as they did, we recoiled at our own fury and the softening began.

This piece provides a path to God’s love that we can use as a meditation practice when we are angry with a loved one. Yes, we are human, and we must accept our anger as real. Then we can sit quietly and read this passage slowly as we allow ourselves to feel God’s sadness, his disappointment, and yes, even his sense of failure. But then God looks back on how he raised his children, how he fed them and taught them to walk. How can he undo his own love? Allow his child to become your loved one; look back on your selfless acts of caring. Many went unacknowledged, some were not even known at all. How can you undo your love? Now allow yourself to feel that love in place of the anger that you had been feeling.

Another poignant application of this scripture is when your teenager, or someone else who has been dependent on you for some time but now can manage his or her own affairs is going to be leaving home. Especially with teenagers, as the need to leave home approaches, there is often rebellion, irritating behavior, disobedience and disrespect. Unconsciously, of course, much of this has to do with the need to generate anger so that the impending separation will be easier. This separation anxiety causes much friction and can cause hard feelings if not understood for what it is. Again, go deeply into this passage and allow yourself to feel the pangs of separation and the anger you may feel as you remember all you sacrificed, but not from a sense of wasted time, energy or love, but for the sense of impending loss. Feel your love for them; let your heart swell with this warmth, and renew your perspective.

Hosea was doing the people a great favor by making God’s love for them palpable. May we allow him to do the same for you and me?

Blessings, Deacon Doug Freebern