Ambassadors

All this is from God who has reconciled us to himself through Christ, and has given us the ministry or reconciliation; that is in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespass against them and entrusting the message of reconciliation to us. So we are ambassadors for Christ, since God is making his appeal through us; we entreat you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. 2 Corinthians 11:18-20

Day one at Shrine Mont is Orkney Springs, Virginia is a day full of reacquainting myself with old friends and acclimating Mark, who has never been here before, to the wonders and beauty of this place and the unique community gathered here. I am speaking at the Tri-Diocesan (three Virginia Diocese) Fall Camp on Aging. Many people here are well into their eighties and nineties, many with active ministries and gifts to offer. We just came from a wonderful paper marbleizing class, where we were able to get messy and make wonderful art. Everyone here is working to use the gifts and talents they have, and are a creative, loving group. Some are physically challenged, but it doesn’t inhibit a one. They are full of joy to reach out and meet others, being ambassadors from many places and many communities. The gathered wisdom in the room is astounding and I feel humbled to speak to so many wise ones.
Paul taught, in his very careful way, that God was one who reconciled the whole world, brought the whole world to himself, making us all a part of God’s family. No outcasts and no one left behind. And we are called to carry the message of reconciliation, to turn our hearts to God and in so doing so, we are reconciled to one another, the broken are mended and the challenges of these days are small mountains to climb.
Today I pray that I can be an ambassador of reconciliation, that my heart, my hands and my words can be used by God for welcome and for healing. I pray that I can learn from the wise ones that are gathered here, who know well the constancy of God and who gather to renew their community and God’s love in the midst of them.