He came to his home town and began to teach the people in their synagogue, so that they were astounded and said, ‘Where did this man get this wisdom and these deeds of power? Is not this the carpenter’s son? Is not his mother called Mary? And are not his brothers James and Joseph and Simon and Judas? And are not all his sisters with us? Where then did this man get all this?’ And they took offence at him. But Jesus said to them, ‘Prophets are not without honor except in their own country and in their own house.’ And he did not do many deeds of power there, because of their unbelief. Matthew 13:54-58
Today began with gathering at the Canterbury Cathedral for a two day retreat. We prayed and heard reflections and shared Eucharist. We also shared food and conversation. This place, rich in Anglican history, is also a place of terrible disagreements and violence throughout it's history. Our holy places can be places of wonderful spiritual moments and they can be devoid of any spiritual power as well. Both unbelief and rigid belief can temporarily halt the healing power of God's love. Our work here, from my vantage point, is to listen deeply, talk little and witness the power of Christ's love in others. None of us has the corner on our Creator's truth. May prayer is for a turning of hearts, an opening of minds and God's loving Spirit among us all.
Wondrous Creator you created such diversity
of people, culture, language and experience
and you dwell within each and every one of us.
Help the Bishops gathered here to see your smile
across the face of a stranger who become friend
and help us know your incarnate love as we reach
not for solutions but for holy and loving relationships.
Make us humble as we voice for the voiceless
and make us silent as we listen to your still small voice. Amen.
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