This Lenten season, I am focusing on forgiving others as I have been forgiven.To be honest, this task has been more challenging than I'd anticipated.
A lot has happened in the past 12 months, and although I am grateful for where I am and with whom I associate with now, I've discovered that my heart still harbors some bitterness and anger towards certain people who have hurt me. This bothers me for two reasons:
1. Christ calls us to forgive, as He has forgiven all of us.
2. I want to be free of the bonds laid upon me by my unwillingness to forgive certain people. My anger towards these individuals has my stomach literally tied in knots every time I recall them in any capacity. Anger holds ME down, not those at whom my anger is directed.
How can I walk towards forgiveness when all I think about when their face shows up in my mind's eye is anger at their lies and innuendos? Does forgiveness mean that I have to " make nice" with these people.
Best Dude says " everyone is different" and that I should learn to accept that some people do not have the same mores as I do. But just because some people think lying about, gossiping and ostracizing others who are different from their little clique is acceptable doesn't mean I do. Or does it?
I do not accept mean people. Sorry, I just do not and shall not .
But does forgiveness need to encompass condoning someone's bad behavior?
Only God knows.
Showing posts with label Christianity. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Christianity. Show all posts
Thursday, February 26, 2015
Monday, February 23, 2015
what I did this weekend.... Convention 2015 Reflections
First of all , let me say that it was an honor and a privilege to represent YOU as an alternate lay delegate at this year's Convention. even though I did not get to vote, the experience was a blessing and a gift and again I say thank you for this opportunity.
After the first business session I went to a meeting on the Commission for Youth, of which I am a member. I am excited to serve our diocese in this way, and I shall update everyone of this commission's activities regularly.
I watched the election of our fourth bishop in ' real time' from the parish hall at Trinity Episcopal. The process began with a prayer, and delegates were asked to remain silent during the voting.
The election process in itself fascinated me, and I was impressed with the orderly fashion in which the election occurred. As many of you already know, the Reverend Dan Smith dropped out of the election process the day before convention met so the voting delegates were left with a slate of only three candidates.
Canons require the winner required a majority of two-thirds in each ' house [ clergy and lay voters} to become elected. after each ballot, each candidate was phoned with the results and asked if he wished to continue in the process. Reverend Ed OcConnor dropped out of the election after the second ballot, so that left Rev. Chuck Treadwell and Rev Russell Kendrick as the choices on the third and final ballot. Reverend Kendrick accepted his election and will be installed as our fourth bishop this summer.
In closing, this was a wonderful, faith-affirming experience.
Pax Christos,
Sarah Beth
Alternate Lay Delegate
St Francis of Assisi , Gulf Breeze
Monday, February 9, 2015
My #Lent15 discipline
I want to let you all know of my discipline for this Lenten season.
This season, I plan to re-read, chapter by chapter, bishop Katharine Jefforts-Schori's book " The Heartbeat of God' AND I also shall make daily entries in my pen-and-paper journal regarding my reflections on the daily readings. The parish I used to attend does their own Lenten meditations booklet and I would be lying if I said that I do not miss that discipline this season. so I created my own Lenten study and reflection discipline, using the wise words of one of my favorite Christian author and scholar.
SEM
This season, I plan to re-read, chapter by chapter, bishop Katharine Jefforts-Schori's book " The Heartbeat of God' AND I also shall make daily entries in my pen-and-paper journal regarding my reflections on the daily readings. The parish I used to attend does their own Lenten meditations booklet and I would be lying if I said that I do not miss that discipline this season. so I created my own Lenten study and reflection discipline, using the wise words of one of my favorite Christian author and scholar.
SEM
Friday, December 19, 2014
Quote of the day.
Hi, my name is Sarah Beth and I am addicted to quotes. Today one came across my Facebook page that I HAD to share, both on my personal page, via email, and here with my blog readers.
Sister Joan, Chissiter , a spiritual hero of mine, addressed a crowd at Wessally College . Here is part of what she told the packed " house' gathered to listen to the wisdom from the 78-year-old Catholic nun.
Without further ado, here is the promised quote:
"Choose what’s best in life over what is comfortable. Chose witness in life over the country club scene … Find a purpose large enough on which to spend yourselves. Torture, climate change, something that says, ‘my life isn’t over. This is yet to be done.’ What will they remember about you when you’re gone? What are you doing now that will not be forgotten"
This reminds me of what Jesus says in His famous Sermon On The Mount. Jesus does not call His followers to be complacent. we are not supposed to sit idle when there is so much injustice happening in our world. We are called to be agents of healthy change, to be peacemakers in a world filled with wars and other conflicts. We are called to be meek...and by meek I DO NOT mean " weak" and to not seek revenge when wronged upon.
We are called to care for the earth and all its inhabitants. We are called to get out of ourselves and see how we can be of service to others. We are called to love and honor all persons, even those whose lifestyles make no sense to us. A Christians, we are called to LOVE each other---- in spite of petty differences of opinions, lifestyles, political affiliations, ect.
Rather on focusing on what divides us, we should focus on solving problems that affect all of humanity. As we move towards the beginning of another calendar year, let us remember to live a life that matters. Don't live life for yourself, try instead to BE a change that is much needed right now.
Amen.
Sister Joan, Chissiter , a spiritual hero of mine, addressed a crowd at Wessally College . Here is part of what she told the packed " house' gathered to listen to the wisdom from the 78-year-old Catholic nun.
Without further ado, here is the promised quote:
"Choose what’s best in life over what is comfortable. Chose witness in life over the country club scene … Find a purpose large enough on which to spend yourselves. Torture, climate change, something that says, ‘my life isn’t over. This is yet to be done.’ What will they remember about you when you’re gone? What are you doing now that will not be forgotten"
This reminds me of what Jesus says in His famous Sermon On The Mount. Jesus does not call His followers to be complacent. we are not supposed to sit idle when there is so much injustice happening in our world. We are called to be agents of healthy change, to be peacemakers in a world filled with wars and other conflicts. We are called to be meek...and by meek I DO NOT mean " weak" and to not seek revenge when wronged upon.
We are called to care for the earth and all its inhabitants. We are called to get out of ourselves and see how we can be of service to others. We are called to love and honor all persons, even those whose lifestyles make no sense to us. A Christians, we are called to LOVE each other---- in spite of petty differences of opinions, lifestyles, political affiliations, ect.
Rather on focusing on what divides us, we should focus on solving problems that affect all of humanity. As we move towards the beginning of another calendar year, let us remember to live a life that matters. Don't live life for yourself, try instead to BE a change that is much needed right now.
Amen.
Wednesday, October 15, 2014
Ready, Set, WRITE!!
It is midway through October and I can scarcely contain myself with waiting for November. Why? November is National Novel Writing Month & yearly I challenge myself to write a 50,000 word manuscript in 30 days. Last year I made just over 30,000 words & was pretty damn proud of myself.
This year, I am planning to start a novel that has been " living" in my mind for at least years. Here is a quick synopsis:
A young {not yet reached her 30th birthday} Episcopal priest fresh out of seminary takes an old, historical parish in the northern Virginia mountains. No more than two months into her first year as a rector, she encounters the dead body of her Senior Warden lying face-down in a pool of blood in the church's sacristy.
Who killed him? And why would anyone WANT to kill him? Megan+, channels her inner Sherlock Holmes to find out who committed the murder. When some townspeople start gossiping, Megan knows she must solve the mystery in order to clear her name.
This shall be FUN to write.
This year, I am planning to start a novel that has been " living" in my mind for at least years. Here is a quick synopsis:
A young {not yet reached her 30th birthday} Episcopal priest fresh out of seminary takes an old, historical parish in the northern Virginia mountains. No more than two months into her first year as a rector, she encounters the dead body of her Senior Warden lying face-down in a pool of blood in the church's sacristy.
Who killed him? And why would anyone WANT to kill him? Megan+, channels her inner Sherlock Holmes to find out who committed the murder. When some townspeople start gossiping, Megan knows she must solve the mystery in order to clear her name.
This shall be FUN to write.
Monday, September 29, 2014
On Stewardship, 2013-14
Yes, its that time of the year again. Weather turns { somewhat } colder in Florida, football is on TV several times per week, and all things " pumpkin spice" appear at retailers nationwide.
In the Church year, many are familiar with the annual autumn stewardship campaigns.
Anyone who knows me is aware how I've felt in the past about this annual event in the lives of congregations everywhere. I'll admit that I HATE discussing money and budgets-- I tend to feel depressed even THINNKING about money. I do realize that money is our basis of trade in our society, and I accept this fact. However, the subject of finances makes me feel nervous.
My past issues with financial stewardship has NOTHING to do with how I fell about pledging to my Church. As a matter of fact, since I had my own disposable income I've ALWAYS willingly pledged a percentage to the Church. To me, financial support of the work of the Church is a response of gratitude for the many blessings I've received.
My problem with Stewardship Season is knowing that some people's financial gifts to the Church come with " strings attached" Now I am NOT talking about one-time monetary gifts designated for a particular use for a project /ministry; those type of gifts bless many people abundantly. What I speak of is the mindset that its acceptable to not support ministries in one's diocese and/or national Church ministries.
I've heard several justifications for this practice. Frankly, I do not agree with ANY of said justifications. It breaks my heart & sours my stomach that , to some Christians, financial support of the Church comes with " terms & conditions."
To me ,this is just not right and totally against what Christ teaches. he did not discriminate whom He served and whom He ignored . He disregarded cultural norms when it came to helping some of those who sought His healing.
I am on a limited income, and ALL my pledges to the Church go to wherever they need to go. I trust the leadership of both my Diocese and my National Church to make sound, prayerful choices regarding budgeting.
What can we Christians do to help others to open their minds, hearts { and pocketbooks} for the spreading of the Gospel regardless of petty disagreements with Church leadership? We are called to return a portion back to God for use in furthering The Kingdom of Shalom here on Earth.
I pray for those who still think that its acceptable to support programs and ideas what only fits with their understanding of what is Christian stewardship. I also pray that I find enough peace in my own heart to keep on doing what I feel God is calling me to do.
We all do not need to agree, but we need to come together and build up this part of God's Kingdom.
Amen.
Feast Of St Michael the Archangel, 2013
In the Church year, many are familiar with the annual autumn stewardship campaigns.
Anyone who knows me is aware how I've felt in the past about this annual event in the lives of congregations everywhere. I'll admit that I HATE discussing money and budgets-- I tend to feel depressed even THINNKING about money. I do realize that money is our basis of trade in our society, and I accept this fact. However, the subject of finances makes me feel nervous.
My past issues with financial stewardship has NOTHING to do with how I fell about pledging to my Church. As a matter of fact, since I had my own disposable income I've ALWAYS willingly pledged a percentage to the Church. To me, financial support of the work of the Church is a response of gratitude for the many blessings I've received.
My problem with Stewardship Season is knowing that some people's financial gifts to the Church come with " strings attached" Now I am NOT talking about one-time monetary gifts designated for a particular use for a project /ministry; those type of gifts bless many people abundantly. What I speak of is the mindset that its acceptable to not support ministries in one's diocese and/or national Church ministries.
I've heard several justifications for this practice. Frankly, I do not agree with ANY of said justifications. It breaks my heart & sours my stomach that , to some Christians, financial support of the Church comes with " terms & conditions."
To me ,this is just not right and totally against what Christ teaches. he did not discriminate whom He served and whom He ignored . He disregarded cultural norms when it came to helping some of those who sought His healing.
I am on a limited income, and ALL my pledges to the Church go to wherever they need to go. I trust the leadership of both my Diocese and my National Church to make sound, prayerful choices regarding budgeting.
What can we Christians do to help others to open their minds, hearts { and pocketbooks} for the spreading of the Gospel regardless of petty disagreements with Church leadership? We are called to return a portion back to God for use in furthering The Kingdom of Shalom here on Earth.
I pray for those who still think that its acceptable to support programs and ideas what only fits with their understanding of what is Christian stewardship. I also pray that I find enough peace in my own heart to keep on doing what I feel God is calling me to do.
We all do not need to agree, but we need to come together and build up this part of God's Kingdom.
Amen.
Feast Of St Michael the Archangel, 2013
Sunday, September 7, 2014
#Sermonlesson Conflict resolution according to Jesus
Matt 18:15-20
This is a very familiar passage of the Gospel of Matthew that every Christian should know. Jesus is telling His Disciples how they are to deal with strife and disagreements within their community. Jesus says:
"If another member of the church{ or community} 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. 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. If the member refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if the offender refuses to listen even to the church {or community}, let such a one be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector. "
This is how we Christians are to deal with small sins against each other. At first we are instructed to talk with the person whom we feel has offended us. If that does not resolve the issue, the next step { according to Jesus}is to take one or two other community members with you and talks with the person AGAIN. And if this approach fails, then we are to bring the community into the conflict resolution. And if THAT fails, then Scripture says that we are to treat the offender as one would a 'Gentile or tax collector'. That is, we are to figuratively or literally " cast him or her out".
How many communities of any kind follow this model of conflict resolution? how many even TRY to follow this model? In my opinion, far too few human communities Too often we humans would rather gossip behind our friends, family members and work associate's backs than respectfully approach him or her with our complaint. Admit it---all of us are guilty of this sin. Those of us who are Christians know better yet still we persist in backhanded " conflict resolution" that too often creates bigger and more numerous conflicts.
Why? Why can we not live honestly together and be open to authenticity? What good does backhanded, gossipy "conflict resolution do in the long run? Are we REALLY in such pain that we seek to hurt our sister & fellow community members just because we do not agree with them?
It is not popular to tell the truth in this society. When one is living or working in a community, decision-makers especially rarely take well to being called out on their misdeeds. Bosses do not wish to be told by their subordinates that their business practices are unethical. Teachers do not wish students to tell them that they are teaching according to a particular political agenda. The list can go on & on....
Yet in order to live authentic lives as members of communities, we must be open to practicing Jesus' model of conflict resolution.
Amen.
This is a very familiar passage of the Gospel of Matthew that every Christian should know. Jesus is telling His Disciples how they are to deal with strife and disagreements within their community. Jesus says:
"If another member of the church{ or community} 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. 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. If the member refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if the offender refuses to listen even to the church {or community}, let such a one be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector. "
This is how we Christians are to deal with small sins against each other. At first we are instructed to talk with the person whom we feel has offended us. If that does not resolve the issue, the next step { according to Jesus}is to take one or two other community members with you and talks with the person AGAIN. And if this approach fails, then we are to bring the community into the conflict resolution. And if THAT fails, then Scripture says that we are to treat the offender as one would a 'Gentile or tax collector'. That is, we are to figuratively or literally " cast him or her out".
How many communities of any kind follow this model of conflict resolution? how many even TRY to follow this model? In my opinion, far too few human communities Too often we humans would rather gossip behind our friends, family members and work associate's backs than respectfully approach him or her with our complaint. Admit it---all of us are guilty of this sin. Those of us who are Christians know better yet still we persist in backhanded " conflict resolution" that too often creates bigger and more numerous conflicts.
Why? Why can we not live honestly together and be open to authenticity? What good does backhanded, gossipy "conflict resolution do in the long run? Are we REALLY in such pain that we seek to hurt our sister & fellow community members just because we do not agree with them?
It is not popular to tell the truth in this society. When one is living or working in a community, decision-makers especially rarely take well to being called out on their misdeeds. Bosses do not wish to be told by their subordinates that their business practices are unethical. Teachers do not wish students to tell them that they are teaching according to a particular political agenda. The list can go on & on....
Yet in order to live authentic lives as members of communities, we must be open to practicing Jesus' model of conflict resolution.
Amen.
Tuesday, August 26, 2014
Review: _Dead Man Walking_
Last evening I started to watch the movie _Dead Man Walking_ on Netflix { thank goodness for Netflix, correct?} I'll finish the movie this evening, but wanted to offer a review while the plot is still fresh in my head.
Anyhow, if you are unfamiliar with the movie's plot, it concerns a nun { played excellently by Susan Sarandon} who is contacted by a Louisiana death row inmate { played by Sean Penn} for some last-chance help in preparing himself for a meeting with his clemency board. She agrees , and travels to Louisiana State Prison in Angola { one of the most notoriously violent prisons in the USA} to meet him.
Without giving away too much of the plot, I can say that this movie makes me think deeply about the death penalty. Normally I like to think that I am against capital punishment, but the inmate in the movie is so deplorable that part of me seeks vengeance against him & others in real life who commit crimes of unabashed senseless violence .
The nun in the movie struggles with these same issues: she seeks to reconcile the life & teachings of Jesus Christ with the everyday world in which she lives. She struggles to understand the inmate & what might have made him commit these crimes yet faces reproach from the media regarding her choice to help this violent criminal.
She asks herself : What would Jesus do? What should SHE do in order to follow Him, to Whom she has given her entire earthly life. Like myself, the character is town between sympathy for the families of the inmate's victims and seeking to see dignity in EVERY human . She maintains a balance in the movie that many people in her life do not understand.
Is it human nature to seek retribution ? Is it ok for any government to routinely & systematically put to death people? Is the " justice system" in this nation truly fair to everyone? I do not know the answers to any of these questions. But I do know that all of we Christ-followers must prayerfully seek what it means for each of us to follow Him.
Amen.
Anyhow, if you are unfamiliar with the movie's plot, it concerns a nun { played excellently by Susan Sarandon} who is contacted by a Louisiana death row inmate { played by Sean Penn} for some last-chance help in preparing himself for a meeting with his clemency board. She agrees , and travels to Louisiana State Prison in Angola { one of the most notoriously violent prisons in the USA} to meet him.
Without giving away too much of the plot, I can say that this movie makes me think deeply about the death penalty. Normally I like to think that I am against capital punishment, but the inmate in the movie is so deplorable that part of me seeks vengeance against him & others in real life who commit crimes of unabashed senseless violence .
The nun in the movie struggles with these same issues: she seeks to reconcile the life & teachings of Jesus Christ with the everyday world in which she lives. She struggles to understand the inmate & what might have made him commit these crimes yet faces reproach from the media regarding her choice to help this violent criminal.
She asks herself : What would Jesus do? What should SHE do in order to follow Him, to Whom she has given her entire earthly life. Like myself, the character is town between sympathy for the families of the inmate's victims and seeking to see dignity in EVERY human . She maintains a balance in the movie that many people in her life do not understand.
Is it human nature to seek retribution ? Is it ok for any government to routinely & systematically put to death people? Is the " justice system" in this nation truly fair to everyone? I do not know the answers to any of these questions. But I do know that all of we Christ-followers must prayerfully seek what it means for each of us to follow Him.
Amen.
Sunday, July 27, 2014
Remembering: The " Philadelphia 11" 40 years later
This weekend marks the 40th anniversary of the anniversary of womens' ordination in The Episcopal Church. While I have only been a member of this Church for approximately 6 years, I am glad to know that my Church has been ordaining women for longer than I've been alive.
Maybe some men do not understand what a huge deal it is for we women to acknowledge this important day. Because we Episcopalians ordain both men & women whose calls are affirmed by the wider Church
This quote sums up my feelings towards what those brave women did 40 years ago:
"Women in all orders of ministry--baptized, deacons, priests, and bishops--can walk proudly today in whatever kind of shoes they want to wear because of what happened here 40 years ago."--from the Presiding Bishop's homily on the 40th anniversary of women's ordination.
This morning I had the privilege of serving at the altar at Beach Church. Our altar party consisted of men & women of all ages and life experiences. I probably will get in trouble for making this statement, but I truly believe that God does not take a human's gender into consideration when God calls someone into any type of ministry.
Today I was reminded that it is an honor and a privilege for ALL we Christians to serve God at the altar. We are all called to do our best in whatever ministry we take part in every day. This morning I found myself standing taller and prouder as I walked with a torch in hand during the procession and recession. I did not think about my being " a girl" & I highly doubt that any of my sister & brother parishioners did either.
I am " a girl" , and a very feminine one. While I do not hide the fact that I am feminine, neither do I think that my gender should hinder me or any other woman, in discerning how to serve God.
When I serve at the altar as a layperson, I do not concern myself with my own identity. Altar servers & clergy dress in vestments in part to " blend in" together so that no one serve stands out. Altar serving, like all other ministries, should be about pleasing God.
All the fuss that some Christians make regarding the gender of those serving at the altar seem to miss the point of what we are called to do. ALL we baptized believers are called to spread the love of our LORD and Savior Jesus Christ. We are not to make disciples of only men, nor are we to make disciples of only women.
O God, thank You for the witness of those brave women in Philadelphia .May other brave men & women work hard to empower all persons to live out their baptismal covenant in any way they feel led by You. In the Name of the Father, Son & Holy Spirit, Amen.
"
Maybe some men do not understand what a huge deal it is for we women to acknowledge this important day. Because we Episcopalians ordain both men & women whose calls are affirmed by the wider Church
This quote sums up my feelings towards what those brave women did 40 years ago:
"Women in all orders of ministry--baptized, deacons, priests, and bishops--can walk proudly today in whatever kind of shoes they want to wear because of what happened here 40 years ago."--from the Presiding Bishop's homily on the 40th anniversary of women's ordination.
This morning I had the privilege of serving at the altar at Beach Church. Our altar party consisted of men & women of all ages and life experiences. I probably will get in trouble for making this statement, but I truly believe that God does not take a human's gender into consideration when God calls someone into any type of ministry.
Today I was reminded that it is an honor and a privilege for ALL we Christians to serve God at the altar. We are all called to do our best in whatever ministry we take part in every day. This morning I found myself standing taller and prouder as I walked with a torch in hand during the procession and recession. I did not think about my being " a girl" & I highly doubt that any of my sister & brother parishioners did either.
I am " a girl" , and a very feminine one. While I do not hide the fact that I am feminine, neither do I think that my gender should hinder me or any other woman, in discerning how to serve God.
When I serve at the altar as a layperson, I do not concern myself with my own identity. Altar servers & clergy dress in vestments in part to " blend in" together so that no one serve stands out. Altar serving, like all other ministries, should be about pleasing God.
All the fuss that some Christians make regarding the gender of those serving at the altar seem to miss the point of what we are called to do. ALL we baptized believers are called to spread the love of our LORD and Savior Jesus Christ. We are not to make disciples of only men, nor are we to make disciples of only women.
O God, thank You for the witness of those brave women in Philadelphia .May other brave men & women work hard to empower all persons to live out their baptismal covenant in any way they feel led by You. In the Name of the Father, Son & Holy Spirit, Amen.
"
Friday, July 11, 2014
Scars
When I was at the tender age of 12 I had two surgeries to correct severe scoliosis of the spine. This ordeal left me with two titanium rods around my spinal column and put me at Children's Hospital in Pittsburgh for three weeks. { Did I mention I was only 12 years old when this happened?}
Anyhow, as if immobilization for 21 days and two MAJOR operations where the surgeon & his team pretty much re-arranged all my innards so to save my back from eventually crippling me{ or worse---apparently unchecked scoliosis can crush a patient's lungs and KILL her or him!!}was not enough torture for a pubescent Pittsburgher I also had to wear a fiberglass brace. This custom-made instrument of torture surrounded my torso and covered me from below my bra-line to underneath my tailbone. I won't even discuss the ugly clothing with elasticized waits and baggy, high-necked shirts & sweaters that this brace forced me to wear .
I carry on my back two large and permanent reminders of my "Seventh Grade Summer from Hell". Two long scars run down my back and around my torso remain permanently etched on my body. While there scars faded with time, they are still visible to those who know where to look for them. For many years, I felt ashamed of these scars, and my shame played a part in the development of an eating disorder that literally took YEARS for me to get into a true remission. To shorten a long story, I let my physical scars play a huge part in how I perceived others' views of me.
Physical scars are a metaphor for some deeper spiritual and emotional scars that many of us carry around. We tend to focus on the painful, awkward and even ugly parts of our walk with Our Lord rather than see them as merely a part of our story. As did my physical scars on my back---our scars on our souls can and will fade with time. Scars on the soul & psyche eventually will be seen as parts of our " story"---important parts for sure but not defining parts.
When I look at myself in the mirror I see ME, not the scars on my back. With time, a lot of love from my family, and years of counseling, I am in remission from my eating disorder. I am looking forward and onward. The same is true for spiritual scars...they can and shall heal. Give yourself time and seek help from God and others. Be kind to yourself. Look in the mirror and tell yourself " I am more than the sums of all my scars."
Amen.
~SEM
Anyhow, as if immobilization for 21 days and two MAJOR operations where the surgeon & his team pretty much re-arranged all my innards so to save my back from eventually crippling me{ or worse---apparently unchecked scoliosis can crush a patient's lungs and KILL her or him!!}was not enough torture for a pubescent Pittsburgher I also had to wear a fiberglass brace. This custom-made instrument of torture surrounded my torso and covered me from below my bra-line to underneath my tailbone. I won't even discuss the ugly clothing with elasticized waits and baggy, high-necked shirts & sweaters that this brace forced me to wear .
I carry on my back two large and permanent reminders of my "Seventh Grade Summer from Hell". Two long scars run down my back and around my torso remain permanently etched on my body. While there scars faded with time, they are still visible to those who know where to look for them. For many years, I felt ashamed of these scars, and my shame played a part in the development of an eating disorder that literally took YEARS for me to get into a true remission. To shorten a long story, I let my physical scars play a huge part in how I perceived others' views of me.
Physical scars are a metaphor for some deeper spiritual and emotional scars that many of us carry around. We tend to focus on the painful, awkward and even ugly parts of our walk with Our Lord rather than see them as merely a part of our story. As did my physical scars on my back---our scars on our souls can and will fade with time. Scars on the soul & psyche eventually will be seen as parts of our " story"---important parts for sure but not defining parts.
When I look at myself in the mirror I see ME, not the scars on my back. With time, a lot of love from my family, and years of counseling, I am in remission from my eating disorder. I am looking forward and onward. The same is true for spiritual scars...they can and shall heal. Give yourself time and seek help from God and others. Be kind to yourself. Look in the mirror and tell yourself " I am more than the sums of all my scars."
Amen.
~SEM
Wednesday, July 2, 2014
My favorite prayer---attributed to St Francis of Assisi
I've been praying this prayer every day....in addition to reciting it each week with my church family, I pray it at least once daily on my own.
Here it is, in case any of my readers are not familiar with the famous prayer attributed to St Francis of Assisi:
Lord, make me an instrument of Your peace; Where there is hatred, let me sow love; Where there is injury, pardon; Where there is discord, harmony; Where there is error, truth; Where there is doubt, faith; Where there is despair, hope; Where there is darkness, light; And where there is sadness, joy.
My Jewish agnostic Mom always told me that ' two wrongs do not make a right.' Often I am guilty of inadvertently hurting others while reacting to my own anger & hurt. It is human nature but NOT OKAY , to punish those who are associated in any way with someone who hurt me. My goal is to do what Christ would do even in my own hurt, to seek pardon for others who injure me. Often in interpersonal conflicts, others are deemed " guilty by association".
No one is perfect but Christ.
Amen.
Here it is, in case any of my readers are not familiar with the famous prayer attributed to St Francis of Assisi:
- O Divine Master, Grant that I may not so much seek
- To be consoled as to console;
- To be understood as to understand;
- To be loved as to love.
- For it is in giving that we receive;
- It is in pardoning that we are pardoned;
- And it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
My Jewish agnostic Mom always told me that ' two wrongs do not make a right.' Often I am guilty of inadvertently hurting others while reacting to my own anger & hurt. It is human nature but NOT OKAY , to punish those who are associated in any way with someone who hurt me. My goal is to do what Christ would do even in my own hurt, to seek pardon for others who injure me. Often in interpersonal conflicts, others are deemed " guilty by association".
No one is perfect but Christ.
Amen.
Sunday, June 22, 2014
the cost of dicipleship...and apostleship. And are you ready to pay?
Today Best Dude went with me to Beach Town Parish for Mass this morning.
On this second Sunday in Ordinary Time the priest talked about how discipleship & apostleship are not easy.
In today's Gospel lesson from St Matthew, Jesus tells his disciples what it will mean to proclaim Him as their risen LORD. This is a part of the discourse in Matthew's Gospel that is unsettling to we 21st-century Christians. Look closely at the text for today:
Jesus says" ...and whoever does not take up the cross and follow Me is not worthy of me. "
Ouch.
Jesus is letting His disciples , and also we Christians in today's modern era, that discipleship & apostleship is not for the weak or faint-of-heart. Taking our Crosses and doing Jesus' work here on earth is hard. In order to BE Christ's hands & feet in the here & now, I've come to the conclusion that I must be of good spiritual & emotional health. In order to give my best in the service of God, I must first BE my best.
As hard as it can be, sometimes service to God requires that we alter our earthly relationships with some people who might hold us back from giving our all in the Service of the Creator/Redeemer/Sustainer Godhead .Jesus was obediently even to a very physical death, and His disciples were left bereft of His physical Self. he sends the first apostles to do His work, and He warns them very explicitly that the cost of being a disciple & apostle is heavy
Humans are created to be in relationship with each other, but this passage of Matthew's Gospel reminds me that we are also called into a relationship with God, and unhealthy relationships with other humans can metaphorically bleed into out spiritual lives.
Following Jesus is not easy. Yet , as Marines are fond of saying" I never promised you a rose garden."
Amen.
SEM
2 Pentacost 2014
On this second Sunday in Ordinary Time the priest talked about how discipleship & apostleship are not easy.
In today's Gospel lesson from St Matthew, Jesus tells his disciples what it will mean to proclaim Him as their risen LORD. This is a part of the discourse in Matthew's Gospel that is unsettling to we 21st-century Christians. Look closely at the text for today:
Jesus says" ...and whoever does not take up the cross and follow Me is not worthy of me. "
Ouch.
Jesus is letting His disciples , and also we Christians in today's modern era, that discipleship & apostleship is not for the weak or faint-of-heart. Taking our Crosses and doing Jesus' work here on earth is hard. In order to BE Christ's hands & feet in the here & now, I've come to the conclusion that I must be of good spiritual & emotional health. In order to give my best in the service of God, I must first BE my best.
As hard as it can be, sometimes service to God requires that we alter our earthly relationships with some people who might hold us back from giving our all in the Service of the Creator/Redeemer/Sustainer Godhead .Jesus was obediently even to a very physical death, and His disciples were left bereft of His physical Self. he sends the first apostles to do His work, and He warns them very explicitly that the cost of being a disciple & apostle is heavy
Humans are created to be in relationship with each other, but this passage of Matthew's Gospel reminds me that we are also called into a relationship with God, and unhealthy relationships with other humans can metaphorically bleed into out spiritual lives.
Following Jesus is not easy. Yet , as Marines are fond of saying" I never promised you a rose garden."
Amen.
SEM
2 Pentacost 2014
Tuesday, June 10, 2014
new beginnings
Sunday was Pentecost, and lately I've been pondering " new beginnings"
This Season after Pentecost shall be one of new beginnings for many people in my life.
For we Christians, life is full of new beginnings. For example, I have some friends who are leaving to attend {Episcopal} seminary soon. they had to say goodbye to their colleagues at work & are in the process of saying goodbye to friends throughout their parish & our Diocese.
Another person I know is stepping down from several years of lay service in one particular church.
Our Diocese is in the process of searching for the next bishop. My rector is among those who were selected & charged with the big task of seeking the individual whom God wishes to bring to us as our next shepherd. My prayers are with these faithful and brave individuals as they serve the diocese in this important way. I know all of them{ at least by name if not personally} and I trust that they will follow the process of selecting the Fourth Bishop.
One of my aunts has retired from many years as a nurse.
Another young friend of mine is moving cross-country to finish college.
Walking with God , in fact life as a human, is never a straight line. Deviations from what we humans perceive as our own " path" are necessary, inevitable and healthy.
I am autistic, and do NOT thrive on change. However, during these past few months I noticed that a change is needed in my life of faith. {please don't ask me--as I really am not at liberty to discuss the situation} in order for me to maintain my spiritual & mental health. For me, new beginnings of any kind require me to move out of my very rigid comfort zone. God may gently nudge some people to go where God wants them to go but I am someone whom God must kick hard in the pants to get me to move forward.
I . Do.Not.Like.Change!
In spite of my huge aversion to anything that disrupts my part of this universe, I know that my own health sometimes requires drastic change. Sixteen years ago I took a HUGE leap of faith and followed my family to Gulf Coast Beach Town. I arrived here knowing no one but them & was lonely for over a year . As a matter of fact, it was not until I traveled up North for a couple weeks' vacation that I realized that my " home" was no longer home to me.
I am dealing with the same situation now in a different way. But I need to look onward and ahead of me.
Amen.
Sunday, June 1, 2014
My Name is SarahBeth and I am a " Forgiveness Challenge" dropout
Hi. My name is SarahBeth & I am a Forgiveness challenge dropout.
{ Crowd murmurs " Hi SarahBeth}
"Forgive/Sounds good.
Forget? I'm not sure I could
They say time heals everything/But I'm still waiting" ~ Dixie Chicks.
Last month I had an intention to completed ++ Desmond Tutu's international " Forgiveness Challenge" online. I admit when I fail to complete a task & I messed up this one in the worst way. For the first 6 days I was stoked about this journey of self-discovery, but after the 6th day life's circumstances that occurred beyond my control set me way back. As the first week of this challenge moved into the second week I realized that I am not emotionally nor spiritually "ready" to contemplate forgiveness.
So I dropped out.
I am not a quitter. Quitting is wimpy & my parents did not raise a wimp.
It can be healthy, however, to step back from an unpleasant situation & seek out guidance & perspective. When one is not at a good place emotionally or spiritually, it is hard { if not downright impossible} to focus on forgiveness. I am too pissed-off to think deeply about forgiveness. & it is not worth my heartache to try to " complete" this program just for the sake of completion.
Recently I've learned that I'm no good to serve anyone else if my own spiritual/psychological life is in disarray. Sometimes it is necessary to step back from a situation & allow oneself to be led by the Spirit without constantly worrying about staying " at the top of my game'. Spiritual & emotional health is just as important as corporeal health. As I read the day's emails from ++ Tutu last month, I realized that I am not ready to contemplate forgiveness right now. The good thing about the 30 Day Forgiveness Challenge is that participants can return to the site and complete each day's activity when ready to do so.
"Life is a journey/Not a destination/...And you just don't can't tell just what tomorrow will bring..."~Aerosmith
There is no need to rush on healing and forgiveness. Each person heals differently & one's life story/spiritual autobiography factors into each person's Forgiveness & Healing Timetable.
Several circumstances throughout my 38 years of life on Planet Earth have molded me into a slow healer. I'm like a pot roast: tough & rigid until I simmer long enough for tenderizing to happen. I do not forgive nor heal easily from soul wounds. With a lot of prayer, I hope I shall come to a place where I can forgive wholeheartedly.
SEM
Feast Of the Ascension of Our LORD Jesus the Christ 2014
{ Crowd murmurs " Hi SarahBeth}
"Forgive/Sounds good.
Forget? I'm not sure I could
They say time heals everything/But I'm still waiting" ~ Dixie Chicks.
Last month I had an intention to completed ++ Desmond Tutu's international " Forgiveness Challenge" online. I admit when I fail to complete a task & I messed up this one in the worst way. For the first 6 days I was stoked about this journey of self-discovery, but after the 6th day life's circumstances that occurred beyond my control set me way back. As the first week of this challenge moved into the second week I realized that I am not emotionally nor spiritually "ready" to contemplate forgiveness.
So I dropped out.
I am not a quitter. Quitting is wimpy & my parents did not raise a wimp.
It can be healthy, however, to step back from an unpleasant situation & seek out guidance & perspective. When one is not at a good place emotionally or spiritually, it is hard { if not downright impossible} to focus on forgiveness. I am too pissed-off to think deeply about forgiveness. & it is not worth my heartache to try to " complete" this program just for the sake of completion.
Recently I've learned that I'm no good to serve anyone else if my own spiritual/psychological life is in disarray. Sometimes it is necessary to step back from a situation & allow oneself to be led by the Spirit without constantly worrying about staying " at the top of my game'. Spiritual & emotional health is just as important as corporeal health. As I read the day's emails from ++ Tutu last month, I realized that I am not ready to contemplate forgiveness right now. The good thing about the 30 Day Forgiveness Challenge is that participants can return to the site and complete each day's activity when ready to do so.
"Life is a journey/Not a destination/...And you just don't can't tell just what tomorrow will bring..."~Aerosmith
There is no need to rush on healing and forgiveness. Each person heals differently & one's life story/spiritual autobiography factors into each person's Forgiveness & Healing Timetable.
Several circumstances throughout my 38 years of life on Planet Earth have molded me into a slow healer. I'm like a pot roast: tough & rigid until I simmer long enough for tenderizing to happen. I do not forgive nor heal easily from soul wounds. With a lot of prayer, I hope I shall come to a place where I can forgive wholeheartedly.
SEM
Feast Of the Ascension of Our LORD Jesus the Christ 2014
Tuesday, March 25, 2014
Elevator pitch...Why I am an Episcopalian
Recently there has been a Facebook trend among some Episcopalians I know on Facebook. the challenge is to write one paragraph stating why you are an Episcopalian. Apparently this type of exercise is called an " elevator pitch".
At any rate: here is mine.
SARAH BETH'S "ELEVATOR PITCH"
I believe in the Jesus, as the Son & Second Person of the Triune God. I also believe that He teaches humanity what it means to be a good person. In the Episcopal Church I've found meaningful worship and a worldwide community of Christians who strive hard to discern what it means to follow our First-Century Jewish Carpenter Lord and Savior into the twenty-first century. Although we are not a perfect people, we are a people that tries , with integrity, to follow Our Lord's way. CS Lewis said" I don't go to religion to make me happy, I always knew a bottle of port would do that." I am not an Episcopalian because it is 'trendy' or that the Church always makes me 'happy. I belong in this branch of the One Holy and Catholic Church because we are an imperfect people trying our best to follow our perfect Lord.
Amen
Feast of the Annunciation , 2014
At any rate: here is mine.
SARAH BETH'S "ELEVATOR PITCH"
I believe in the Jesus, as the Son & Second Person of the Triune God. I also believe that He teaches humanity what it means to be a good person. In the Episcopal Church I've found meaningful worship and a worldwide community of Christians who strive hard to discern what it means to follow our First-Century Jewish Carpenter Lord and Savior into the twenty-first century. Although we are not a perfect people, we are a people that tries , with integrity, to follow Our Lord's way. CS Lewis said" I don't go to religion to make me happy, I always knew a bottle of port would do that." I am not an Episcopalian because it is 'trendy' or that the Church always makes me 'happy. I belong in this branch of the One Holy and Catholic Church because we are an imperfect people trying our best to follow our perfect Lord.
Amen
Feast of the Annunciation , 2014
Thursday, March 20, 2014
Fred is Dead...so now what ? Answer: Pray.
Fred Phelps is dead.
There is much going around the social media universe regarding the demise & death of the Westboro Baptist " Church"'s leader. This begs the question of how we Christ-followers should approach the death of this man best known for his hate speech and funeral protests.
I know that a lot of my very liberal friends would rather shout " FRED IS DEAD" from the highest rooftops and dance an Irish jig & part of me really does not blame them for wanting to herald the demise of a sad, sick individual. But the Christ-follower in me wants to do what Christ himself would do if He were faced with a similar situation.
My mom always had a saying that " Two wrongs don't make a right." Most people I know agree that Mr Phelps' extreme views are wrong. Not only did his group teach hatred of LGBT persons, but he also was famous for sending groups to " protest" military funerals all over the nation. Although I live in a very socially-conservative region, no one I know agrees with Mr Phelp's philosophy regarding our military service people and veterans.
Fred Phelp's extremism was cancerous to society. Now that he is dead, how should our Christian response mirror what Our Lord teaches us? Would he advocate picketing Mr Phelps' funeral or spread snarky cartoons about the death of this man/ My guess is no. Rather, the Jesus Whom I've come to know & love would offer his condolences to the Phelps family.
Yes, Fred Phelps had a family.
As distasteful as this fact is to many of us: Fred Phelps was some one's husband, father, grandfather, uncle, pastor and friend. We do NOT need to agree with the man's teachings or actions to show Christian mercy and love towards his surviving kin. he was an extremist and a bigot, but that does not mean that we should exclude his family from the loving kindness of the Church Universal. I feel strongly that the " sins of the father" in this case, the sins of Fred Phelps} should not bring more pain to his spiritual and actual children.
On Ash Wednesday a priest in my Diocese charged the congregation present that night to focus on the following tasks during Lent: Pray. Fast & Give Alms. Tonight, part of my prayer and alms giving will focus on the Phelps family and their loss. No one human is an " island' amidst him or herself and this applies to bigoted extremists such as Mr Phelps.
I , along with most Americans, will NOT miss this man's hate speech and twisted doctrine. yet it is NOT a Christ-like response to celebrate his demise. None of us are perfect and we ALL wake every morning with our own list of prejudices. I know I do and I pray daily for the Holy Spirit to help me see the common humanity in those with whom I vehemently disagree.
Amen.
Lent, 2014
There is much going around the social media universe regarding the demise & death of the Westboro Baptist " Church"'s leader. This begs the question of how we Christ-followers should approach the death of this man best known for his hate speech and funeral protests.
I know that a lot of my very liberal friends would rather shout " FRED IS DEAD" from the highest rooftops and dance an Irish jig & part of me really does not blame them for wanting to herald the demise of a sad, sick individual. But the Christ-follower in me wants to do what Christ himself would do if He were faced with a similar situation.
My mom always had a saying that " Two wrongs don't make a right." Most people I know agree that Mr Phelps' extreme views are wrong. Not only did his group teach hatred of LGBT persons, but he also was famous for sending groups to " protest" military funerals all over the nation. Although I live in a very socially-conservative region, no one I know agrees with Mr Phelp's philosophy regarding our military service people and veterans.
Fred Phelp's extremism was cancerous to society. Now that he is dead, how should our Christian response mirror what Our Lord teaches us? Would he advocate picketing Mr Phelps' funeral or spread snarky cartoons about the death of this man/ My guess is no. Rather, the Jesus Whom I've come to know & love would offer his condolences to the Phelps family.
Yes, Fred Phelps had a family.
As distasteful as this fact is to many of us: Fred Phelps was some one's husband, father, grandfather, uncle, pastor and friend. We do NOT need to agree with the man's teachings or actions to show Christian mercy and love towards his surviving kin. he was an extremist and a bigot, but that does not mean that we should exclude his family from the loving kindness of the Church Universal. I feel strongly that the " sins of the father" in this case, the sins of Fred Phelps} should not bring more pain to his spiritual and actual children.
On Ash Wednesday a priest in my Diocese charged the congregation present that night to focus on the following tasks during Lent: Pray. Fast & Give Alms. Tonight, part of my prayer and alms giving will focus on the Phelps family and their loss. No one human is an " island' amidst him or herself and this applies to bigoted extremists such as Mr Phelps.
I , along with most Americans, will NOT miss this man's hate speech and twisted doctrine. yet it is NOT a Christ-like response to celebrate his demise. None of us are perfect and we ALL wake every morning with our own list of prejudices. I know I do and I pray daily for the Holy Spirit to help me see the common humanity in those with whom I vehemently disagree.
Amen.
Lent, 2014
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Pray, Fast, Give Alms
This evening Best Dude and I switched things up and attended a neighboring parish where our friend is the rector. As usual, it was a lovely service, but tonight's meditation was a tool for the Holy Spirit to speak to me.
The gist of the sermon was " Pray. Fast, Give Alms. In Lent, especially, we Christ-followers are called to focus on doing these three tasks. The Gospel lesson for today compels us to do these things not to " be seen" by others { as did the Pharisees } but to do these things quietly so that the God who is our Creator will reward us. We are not to show off our piety, but to quietly pray and give alms in the name of Our Lord.
What really struck me in this evening's Gospel is the part where Christ commands us to give alms " in secret" and " so that the left hand will not know what the right hand is doing". To me, almsgiving is in itself an act of prayer....when I give alms, I do so not because I determine that the receiver is 'worthy' of help or because she or he is ' just like me' but because doing so pleases Our Lord.
We need to remember that Christ calls us to BE His hands & feet on Earth. Charity should not be about the giver...there is not need to sound the proverbial trumpet to let others know of our gifts. Christ knows , and that should be enough for His followers
Amen.
Ash Wednesday, 2014
The gist of the sermon was " Pray. Fast, Give Alms. In Lent, especially, we Christ-followers are called to focus on doing these three tasks. The Gospel lesson for today compels us to do these things not to " be seen" by others { as did the Pharisees } but to do these things quietly so that the God who is our Creator will reward us. We are not to show off our piety, but to quietly pray and give alms in the name of Our Lord.
What really struck me in this evening's Gospel is the part where Christ commands us to give alms " in secret" and " so that the left hand will not know what the right hand is doing". To me, almsgiving is in itself an act of prayer....when I give alms, I do so not because I determine that the receiver is 'worthy' of help or because she or he is ' just like me' but because doing so pleases Our Lord.
We need to remember that Christ calls us to BE His hands & feet on Earth. Charity should not be about the giver...there is not need to sound the proverbial trumpet to let others know of our gifts. Christ knows , and that should be enough for His followers
Amen.
Ash Wednesday, 2014
Thursday, January 2, 2014
I prefer a Church...
Pope Francis rocks!
I found a quote from the current pope {to whom I lovingly refer as " Papa Francis" for many reasons}that spoke to my soul .My Annual Convention for my Diocese is in February, and I am going as an alternate lay delegate.
Anyhow, here is the quote:
I found a quote from the current pope {to whom I lovingly refer as " Papa Francis" for many reasons}that spoke to my soul .My Annual Convention for my Diocese is in February, and I am going as an alternate lay delegate.
Anyhow, here is the quote:
Amen and amen again! Although I am pretty sure that the Pope is speaking of the Roman Catholic Church, his statement SHOULD ring true for Christians of any & all varieties.
No one asks me of my opinion on such lofty matters: I am after all " merely a young woman" {sic} and " everyone knows that young people have nothing to contribute" { sic}
Too often the institutional Church is too concerned with maintaining status quo and keeping out "those who are not like us" than actually BEING Christ's hands & feet here and now.
I am sad about all the hard feelings that surround certain Church issues and I am even more saddened by the fact that these issues keep people away from knowing Christ & Christ's community.
I dream of a Church that is more concerned with BEING Church than DEFINING Church.
I dream of a Church whose Holy Scriptures are not used to justify hatred towards those whose lifestyles we do not understand. As long as some one's lifestyle harms no one, we should not justify our prejudices in the name of the Church
I dream of a Church that focuses more on empowering members to live out our Baptismal Covenants rather than playing politics.
I dream of a Church that is more concerned with doing ministry that will make a difference to the greater local area than placating members by playing up to prejudices of people with a lot of money.
I am 37 and one-half years old. It is my HOPE and PRAYER that I live long enough to see some of my dreams for the Church come to fruition.
Amen.
Christmastide 2014.
Friday, December 27, 2013
For some, a " Blue Christmas"
For most of us, it has been a merry Christmastide, filled with family, friendship, worship and food. I am among the blessed this Christmastide. Best Dude & I participated in a lovely Christmas Eve Mass at Small Parish Tuesday night followed by fun, frolicking and FOOD at my parents' house on Christmas Day.
But for some people, this Christmastide ushered in unspeakable sadness.
A family whom I know in Ohio lost their 38 year old son to an illness on Christmas eve.
Closer to home, a 17-year-old student at a neighboring high school stabbed his mother to death in their home. the young man is being charged as an adult for second-degree murder . His late mother was a teacher at one of the local middle schools, so this senseless act of violence affects two local school communities.
I am sad. And I feel guilty because I am among my loved ones this Christmastide and others I know are suffering from a terrible loss.
We need to remember that not everyone is in a celebratory mood this Christmas season. Around the world, people are hurting .
Life isn't fair all of the time and sometimes life just sucks! People get sick and other people commit acts of unspeakable violence against one another. But the world into which Jesus was born was not " a rose garden" either. Yet God loved humanity so much that God sent Jesus to live among us AS A HUMAN. he felt pain. He was sad at times. He was betrayed by a friend before He died.
Emmanuel, " God-as-Human" came to us & is still with us today. he understands that even during the " most wonderful time of the year" that some are hurting.
The baby whose birth we celebrate at this time of year DOES understand that some people are having a Blue Christmas.
Amen.
But for some people, this Christmastide ushered in unspeakable sadness.
A family whom I know in Ohio lost their 38 year old son to an illness on Christmas eve.
Closer to home, a 17-year-old student at a neighboring high school stabbed his mother to death in their home. the young man is being charged as an adult for second-degree murder . His late mother was a teacher at one of the local middle schools, so this senseless act of violence affects two local school communities.
I am sad. And I feel guilty because I am among my loved ones this Christmastide and others I know are suffering from a terrible loss.
We need to remember that not everyone is in a celebratory mood this Christmas season. Around the world, people are hurting .
Life isn't fair all of the time and sometimes life just sucks! People get sick and other people commit acts of unspeakable violence against one another. But the world into which Jesus was born was not " a rose garden" either. Yet God loved humanity so much that God sent Jesus to live among us AS A HUMAN. he felt pain. He was sad at times. He was betrayed by a friend before He died.
Emmanuel, " God-as-Human" came to us & is still with us today. he understands that even during the " most wonderful time of the year" that some are hurting.
The baby whose birth we celebrate at this time of year DOES understand that some people are having a Blue Christmas.
Amen.
Tuesday, December 10, 2013
Las Posadas: Hospitality.
Best Dude and I are hosting Las Posadas in our home this evening.
We set the figurines of the Holy Parents in a spot of honor under our small tree.
I've been thinking about what it means to practice REAL , and RADICAL hospitality. How good are we Christ-followers at practicing real hospitality?
Think about it for a minute:
If a young , poor expectant couple came knocking on yours or my door seeking help, how would we react? Would we invite the young couple in for a cup of tea or coffee and ask them if they are hungry? Would we offer them a place to sleep for the night?
Or would we call the police...or " take matters into our own hands".
The sort of hospitality that Jesus asks us to practice is not about setting a nice meal for our friends from similar backgrounds, ethnicity's or lifestyles.
What if the young couple who knocks on our "door" is of another race? What if the don't speak English at all? Or what if said couple is comprised of two men or two women? What if the couple had with them a child {or adult} with special medical needs?
" Sorry, there is no room at this inn for you. You don't look like me or my neighbors. You smell yucky. Are you even married? Your type isn't wanted here. . Go away before I call the police."
Let me be clear: I am not necessarily speaking about a literal couple knocking on the door of our literal homes. Rather I am talking about how we behave when encountered by such strangers who, for whatever reason, put us ill-at-ease.
How would we react? How DO we react? More importantly, how does Our Lord Jesus Christ expect us to act?
Are we supposed to extend the peace of Our Lord to those with whom we share commonalities? Who is welcome to join our fellowship? Are we " Instruments of God's peace " or are we gatekeepers with a power-hungry complex? Do we find joy in trying hard to keep out those who are different from ourselves and from most of our social circles?
Scripture tells us that He ate with strangers of all types --ESPECIALLY those whom, in first-century Judea, were pretty much " untouchables". he healed on the Sabbath. he let a Samaritan woman touch him. He set a small child on His lap as an example to the type of faith the adults present should possess.
Jesus did not turn away strangers , or people " not like Him." If He is our Lord, shouldn't we follow His example and also welcome others?
Amen.
We set the figurines of the Holy Parents in a spot of honor under our small tree.
I've been thinking about what it means to practice REAL , and RADICAL hospitality. How good are we Christ-followers at practicing real hospitality?
Think about it for a minute:
If a young , poor expectant couple came knocking on yours or my door seeking help, how would we react? Would we invite the young couple in for a cup of tea or coffee and ask them if they are hungry? Would we offer them a place to sleep for the night?
Or would we call the police...or " take matters into our own hands".
The sort of hospitality that Jesus asks us to practice is not about setting a nice meal for our friends from similar backgrounds, ethnicity's or lifestyles.
What if the young couple who knocks on our "door" is of another race? What if the don't speak English at all? Or what if said couple is comprised of two men or two women? What if the couple had with them a child {or adult} with special medical needs?
" Sorry, there is no room at this inn for you. You don't look like me or my neighbors. You smell yucky. Are you even married? Your type isn't wanted here. . Go away before I call the police."
Let me be clear: I am not necessarily speaking about a literal couple knocking on the door of our literal homes. Rather I am talking about how we behave when encountered by such strangers who, for whatever reason, put us ill-at-ease.
How would we react? How DO we react? More importantly, how does Our Lord Jesus Christ expect us to act?
Are we supposed to extend the peace of Our Lord to those with whom we share commonalities? Who is welcome to join our fellowship? Are we " Instruments of God's peace " or are we gatekeepers with a power-hungry complex? Do we find joy in trying hard to keep out those who are different from ourselves and from most of our social circles?
Scripture tells us that He ate with strangers of all types --ESPECIALLY those whom, in first-century Judea, were pretty much " untouchables". he healed on the Sabbath. he let a Samaritan woman touch him. He set a small child on His lap as an example to the type of faith the adults present should possess.
Jesus did not turn away strangers , or people " not like Him." If He is our Lord, shouldn't we follow His example and also welcome others?
Amen.
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