Laborers in the Vineyard

‘For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard. After agreeing with the laborers for the usual daily wage, he sent them into his vineyard. When he went out about nine o’clock, he saw others standing idle in the market-place; and he said to them, “You also go into the vineyard, and I will pay you whatever is right.” So they went. When he went out again about noon and about three o’clock, he did the same. And about five o’clock he went out and found others standing around; and he said to them, “Why are you standing here idle all day?” They said to him, “Because no one has hired us.” He said to them, “You also go into the vineyard.” When evening came, the owner of the vineyard said to his manager, “Call the laborers and give them their pay, beginning with the last and then going to the first.” When those hired about five o’clock came, each of them received the usual daily wage. Now when the first came, they thought they would receive more; but each of them also received the usual daily wage. And when they received it, they grumbled against the landowner, saying, “These last worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the day and the scorching heat.” But he replied to one of them, “Friend, I am doing you no wrong; did you not agree with me for the usual daily wage? Take what belongs to you and go; I choose to give to this last the same as I give to you. Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me? Or are you envious because I am generous?” So the last will be first, and the first will be last.’ Matthew 20:1-16

There is always more work to be done, especially this time of year. Caring for communities of faith during the holidays, especially when wars rage in the Middle East and Ukraine, is always challenging work. Communities had started fights over who would take the role of Mary in the pageant and come apart because of it. When, who and how we decorate are all fodder for community and family conflicts. The simple truth is we want things to be perfect, while the perfect one, our loving Creator, aches for us to move from battling one another to making peace, from the need to win to walking together, and from hoarding the abundance to sharing with all.

Precious Creator, you are our daily blessing

your heart is full of love for every tribe and family

you hands of full of good food for all nations

and your desire is for us to find room for everyone.

Yet ww divide and conquer, shut out and reject

we are unkind to the hungry and the homeless

we shutter our elders away from the children

and we are sad because of the world we have created.

Help us to labor for love and inclusion

help us to spread tables where all are welcome

make us those who seek peace instead of control

and let us be your heart visible here on earth today. Amen.

Last Will Be First

Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘Truly I tell you, it will be hard for a rich person to enter the kingdom of heaven. Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.’ When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astounded and said, ‘Then who can be saved?’ But Jesus looked at them and said, ‘For mortals it is impossible, but for God all things are possible.’ Then Peter said in reply, ‘Look, we have left everything and followed you. What then will we have?’ Jesus said to them, ‘Truly I tell you, at the renewal of all things, when the Son of Man is seated on the throne of his glory, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or fields, for my name’s sake, will receive a hundredfold, and will inherit eternal life. But many who are first will be last, and the last will be first. Matthew 19:23-30

We live in a time of great conflicts and great gaps in society. We have great wealth in America but it is not evenly distributed, we have grand houses and yet so many lack decent housing and the amount of people who are food insecure is on the rise. Some have so much, and many have so little. Jesus was reflected on an individual who came to him, who was very wealthy and who despaired at Jesus direction for him to give his wealth away. We are called, in this season, to see the needs around us, and to respond, not out of pity or sympathy, but instead to be those who are willing to give up so others might live.

Loving Creator, source of all goodness

we know your blessings and your love

we live in an abundant and bounteous land

where there should be no hunger and pain.

Yet here we are in the holiday season

so aware of the needs around us and so afraid

to share, to welcome and to be generous

since we are fearful and worried always.

Loosen our hearts and our purse strings

help us to get to the back of the line

so others might receive abundance and blessing

and we too, might know our loss as great gain. Amen.

Let the Children Come

Then little children were being brought to him in order that he might lay his hands on them and pray. The disciples spoke sternly to those who brought them; but Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of heaven belongs.’ And he laid his hands on them and went on his way. Then someone came to him and said, ‘Teacher, what good deed must I do to have eternal life?’ And he said to him, ‘Why do you ask me about what is good? There is only one who is good. If you wish to enter into life, keep the commandments.’ He said to him, ‘Which ones?’ And Jesus said, ‘You shall not murder; You shall not commit adultery; You shall not steal; You shall not bear false witness; Honour your father and mother; also, You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ The young man said to him, ‘I have kept all these; what do I still lack?’ Jesus said to him, ‘If you wish to be perfect, go, sell your possessions, and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.’ When the young man heard this word, he went away grieving, for he had many possessions. Matthew 19:13-22

The open arms and curiosity of our childhoods too quickly get replaced by rules and judgements. We want to live as welcoming and inclusive people while being concerned about safety, money and security. This coming season of Advent invites us to work at letting go of judgement and control, and return to the wonder and curiosity of children, letting God work in our hearts and lives.

Gracious Creator, we are all your children

we come to you for our daily blessings

we want your embrace and your love

and we need you every day to support us.

Yet we live in a world of greed and avarice

we move from welcome to constant worry

we forget to seek your embrace daily

and try to solve the conflicts on our own.

Soften our hearts and open our ears, Lord

Help us return to welcome and wonder

give us your blessing as we bless others

and bring us again to your loving embrace. Amen

Hard Teachings

When Jesus had finished saying these things, he left Galilee and went to the region of Judea beyond the Jordan. Large crowds followed him, and he cured them there. Some Pharisees came to him, and to test him they asked, ‘Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any cause?’ He answered, ‘Have you not read that the one who made them at the beginning “made them male and female”, and said, “For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh”? So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore, what God has joined together, let no one separate.’ They said to him, ‘Why then did Moses command us to give a certificate of dismissal and to divorce her?’ He said to them, ‘It was because you were so hard-hearted that Moses allowed you to divorce your wives, but at the beginning it was not so. And I say to you, whoever divorces his wife, except for unchastity, and marries another commits adultery.’ His disciples said to him, ‘If such is the case of a man with his wife, it is better not to marry.’ But he said to them, ‘Not everyone can accept this teaching, but only those to whom it is given. For there are eunuchs who have been so from birth, and there are eunuchs who have been made eunuchs by others, and there are eunuchs who have made themselves eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. Let anyone accept this who can.’ Matthew 19:1-12

The commercial holidays have already begun, yet the church is not in Advent season. The last days of Pentecost, always bring out harder and end times teachings of Jesus. We don't like to hear about those who divorce are hard-hearted, because we know life is not so simple. I imagine there was a specific incident that brought forth these questions and the hard answers that follow. We all learn and grow differently, with some learning easy and others very hard. We are reminded, as this church year comes to an end, that facing the hard things in life is fully necessary before we can open our hearts to celebrate and welcome the living God in the Christ child. The coming season of waiting grows our hearts and our spirits.

Wondrous Creator, you came among us

walking holy streets and hidden alleys

you faced punishment, betrayal and death

so we might all live fully in your love.

Often we want to look away from danger

we hide from hard truths and teachings

our desire for easy and simple hardens hearts

and keeps us from embracing love completely.

Help us to be tender and open of heart

let your love and teaching pour over us

help us to walk holy and dangerous roads

so we might be your people once again. Amen.

Christ the King Sunday 2023

Jesus said, “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on the throne of his glory. All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats, and he will put the sheep at his right hand and the goats at the left. Then the king will say to those at his right hand, ‘Come, you that are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me.’ Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry and gave you food, or thirsty and gave you something to drink? And when was it that we saw you a stranger and welcomed you, or naked and gave you clothing? And when was it that we saw you sick or in prison and visited you?’ And the king will answer them, ‘Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.’ Then he will say to those at his left hand, ‘You that are accursed, depart from me into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels; for I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, I was a stranger and you did not welcome me, naked and you did not give me clothing, sick and in prison and you did not visit me.’ Then they also will answer, ‘Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not take care of you?’ Then he will answer them, ‘Truly I tell you, just as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to me.’ And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.” Matthew 25:31-46 

Today is the last Sunday of the Church year and we begin Advent in earnest next Sunday. It is a place of looking back and looking ahead as we stand on the verge, on the edge, in the waiting room. We hear and reflect together on Christ's reign and what God's kingdom truly looks like. We are told it is a place of the care and feeding of the "least of theses", the naked, the homeless, the hungry, the stranger, the sick and the lonely. In former centuries, we, as a church, saw my ancestors as some of these and took children away from parents and sent them to boarding school. Many never returned home. The church thought they were living out the kingdom of God. And yet, they were not seeing with God's eyes or feeling with the Creator's heart. As we stand on the verge, may we see and feel, not as conquerors, colonists, or xenophobes, but with the whole heart, eyes and minds of out loving Savior/

Christ the King Sunday Litany

Loving Creator, you draped you creation

with diverse beauty and flowing waters

you spread a blanket of stars in the heavens

and fields of golden glory across the earth.

Oh Lord Jesus Christ, may your kingdom come on earth today.

We have not been thankful for your gifts

we have scorned those who are different

although you put them next door to us

we look upon our neighbors with scorn.

Oh Lord Jesus Christ, may your kingdom come on earth today.

Give us eyes to see the beauty around us

give us hearts to feel the need among us

make us ever ready to respond and care

as you care so lovingly for each of us.

Oh Lord Jesus Christ, may your kingdom come on earth today.

The world grows cold with fear and anger

help us to warm the hearts and lives here.

Oh Lord Jesus Christ, may your kingdom come on earth today.

We forget you call to serve the least of these

help us to remember and love with your heart.

Oh Lord Jesus Christ, may your kingdom come on earth today.

For you re the king of love and all life

help us to live as your loving subjects here.

Oh Lord Jesus Christ, may your kingdom come on earth today. Amen.

Lost Sheep

‘Take care that you do not despise one of these little ones; for, I tell you, in heaven their angels continually see the face of my Father in heaven. What do you think? If a shepherd has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the mountains and go in search of the one that went astray? And if he finds it, truly I tell you, he rejoices over it more than over the ninety-nine that never went astray. So it is not the will of your Father in heaven that one of these little ones should be lost. ‘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. 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, let such a one be to you as a Gentile and a tax-collector. 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. 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. For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.’ Matthew 18:10-20

Our world is torn by division and it is easy to take sides. What happens when we take side and are immovable, people fall away, and we lose dear friends. When we are careless, we can hurt the ones we love, for they will wander off to safer pastures. Jesus is very clear that our primary work in life is love, forgiveness and reconciliation. Three challenging jobs, and yet when we truly love, forgiving, reconciling and healing come easily. We ache with the heart of God for those who are lost and go out to find them.

Gracious Creator, source of all healing

we are daily called to reconcile the people

you call us to seek out the wandering lost

and by your spirit bring them safely home.

We can be rigid, opinionated and unforgiving

thinking our righteous attitudes are from you

when you remind us daily to seek the lost

bringing them to safety and to their home.

Help us today to be repairers of the breach

give us your heart so that we might forgive

give us your eyes to seek those who are lost

and help us to seek your love in all that we do. Amen.

Thanksgiving Day 2023

Jesus answered them, ‘Very truly, I tell you, you are looking for me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate your fill of the loaves. Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures for eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For it is on him that God the Father has set his seal.’ Then they said to him, ‘What must we do to perform the works of God?’ Jesus answered them, ‘This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent.’ So they said to him, ‘What sign are you going to give us then, so that we may see it and believe you? What work are you performing? Our ancestors ate the manna in the wilderness; as it is written, “He gave them bread from heaven to eat.” ’ Then Jesus said to them, ‘Very truly, I tell you, it was not Moses who gave you the bread from heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is that which comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.’ They said to him, ‘Sir, give us this bread always.’ Jesus said to them, ‘I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. John 6:26-35

Thanksgiving is a wonderful tradition in this country and for Indigenous people here, it is also very complicated. The idea of gratitude and feasting with family and friends is essential to all our cultures and tribes. Yet, the first thanksgiving never really happened the way it has been portrayed. The people who saved the pilgrim's lives, quickly became the enemy and were slaughtered. This is an often-repeated story throughout our nation's history. We are invited today to give thanks to our Creator for the gift of the bread of life, Jesus and to honestly work for the care, inclusion and feeding of all. For no matter our traumas and our complex histories, we have much to be grateful for, as we are abundantly blessed even in the midst of challenges. 

A Thanksgiving Litany

Wondrous Creator, you tenderly care for us

despite our pain and our scars you love us all

blessing is with good food and good company

despite the chaos and terrors around us.

Bread of life, we thank you for your love so freely given.

We often see only what we are lacking now

yet you promise the bread of life for all people

you breathe your spirit into our dark spaces

and call us to be generous with what we have.

Bread of life, we thank you for your love so freely given.

You are the bread of life and the prince of peace

we are selfish and we battle one another

help us to put down our anger and our rage

and turn to our neighbors with love and compassion.

Bread of life, we thank you for your love so freely given.

We live in a world divided and fighting

help us carry your peace with us everywhere.

Bread of life, we thank you for your love so freely given.

We fail every day to love all our neighbors

yet you promise to feed us and refresh us again.

Bread of life, we thank you for your love so freely given.

Let our gratitude be real as we serve others

for you came so the whole world might know love.

Bread of life, we thank you for your love so freely given. Amen.

Taxed

As they were gathering in Galilee, Jesus said to them, ‘The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into human hands, and they will kill him, and on the third day he will be raised.’ And they were greatly distressed. When they reached Capernaum, the collectors of the temple tax came to Peter and said, ‘Does your teacher not pay the temple tax?’ He said, ‘Yes, he does.’ And when he came home, Jesus spoke of it first, asking, ‘What do you think, Simon? From whom do kings of the earth take toll or tribute? From their children or from others?’ When Peter said, ‘From others’, Jesus said to him, ‘Then the children are free. However, so that we do not give offence to them, go to the lake and cast a hook; take the first fish that comes up; and when you open its mouth, you will find a coin; take that and give it to them for you and me.’ Matthew 17:22-27

Noone really likes paying taxes. Yet, this time of year, especially in this time, we are reminded how blessed we all are and how others need our help. Our federal, state and local taxes help folks to be housed, educated and safe. Our pledges and our tithes help our church communities thrive and care for the needs of others. Jesus sent Peter fishing so that the temple tax would be paid. We are sent out to find the blessings and miracles, so we might share the miracles and blessings.

Loving Creator, source of all life

you provide in abundance for all

filling streams and oceans with fish

and filling fields with good food.

When the years are lean we blame you

yet when the harvest is plentiful we do not

we take pride in our accomplishments

and forget the needs of our neighbors.

Help us to be grateful and generous

let us offer hat we have for the world

may we share the blessings and miracles

so the world might know your love here. Amen.

Mountaintop Vision

Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and his brother John and led them up a high mountain, by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became dazzling white. Suddenly there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him. Then Peter said to Jesus, ‘Lord, it is good for us to be here; if you wish, I will make three dwellings here, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.’ While he was still speaking, suddenly a bright cloud overshadowed them, and from the cloud a voice said, ‘This is my Son, the Beloved; with him I am well pleased; listen to him!’ When the disciples heard this, they fell to the ground and were overcome by fear. But Jesus came and touched them, saying, ‘Get up and do not be afraid.’ And when they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus himself alone. As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus ordered them, ‘Tell no one about the vision until after the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.’ And the disciples asked him, ‘Why, then, do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?’ He replied, ‘Elijah is indeed coming and will restore all things; but I tell you that Elijah has already come, and they did not recognize him, but they did to him whatever they pleased. So also the Son of Man is about to suffer at their hands.’ Then the disciples understood that he was speaking to them about John the Baptist. Matthew 17:1-13

When I was still a deacon in 1990, right after Thanksgiving I flew to Florida to be with my sister Pegi. She was facing cancer surgery and my parents were already there. I had plenty of hospital experience by then, but this was different. It was my older sister who I loved dearly. I came to her room and standing in the doorway, I saw a vision. My parents were on each side of her leaning in with such great love. And Pegi was radiant, beautiful and completely bald. I knew then she was not going to live, and I also knew, she was loved and would continue to be surrounded by love in the world beyond. Visions are both a gift and challenge, as they were for the disciples, and the weight of knowing a very hard truth, was surely upsetting to their souls.

Wondrous Creator, you give us insight

you strengthen us with insight and learning

you empower us with kindness and compassion

and hold us when the truth is so hard to hear.

We often run from the hard truths in life

we pretend that we are able to handle everything

in our private spaces we tremble with fear

and cry out to you in our darkest nights.

Help us to see your love clearly this day

and help us to see those who need your love

help us to not shy away from mountains or alleys

so that your love might be visible in all life. Amen.

Sunday, November 19, 2023 Proper 28

                                        Sunday, November 19th, 2023

Jesus said, “It is as if a man, going on a journey, summoned his slaves and entrusted his property to them; to one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability. Then he went away. The one who had received the five talents went off at once and traded with them, and made five more talents. In the same way, the one who had the two talents made two more talents. But the one who had received the one talent went off and dug a hole in the ground and hid his master’s money. After a long time the master of those slaves came and settled accounts with them. Then the one who had received the five talents came forward, bringing five more talents, saying, ‘Master, you handed over to me five talents; see, I have made five more talents.’ His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and trustworthy slave; you have been trustworthy in a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your master.’ And the one with the two talents also came forward, saying, ‘Master, you handed over to me two talents; see, I have made two more talents.’ His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and trustworthy slave; you have been trustworthy in a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your master.’ Then the one who had received the one talent also came forward, saying, ‘Master, I knew that you were a harsh man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you did not scatter seed; so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here you have what is yours.’ But his master replied, ‘You wicked and lazy slave! You knew, did you, that I reap where I did not sow, and gather where I did not scatter? Then you ought to have invested my money with the bankers, and on my return I would have received what was my own with interest. So take the talent from him, and give it to the one with the ten talents. For to all those who have, more will be given, and they will have an abundance; but from those who have nothing, even what they have will be taken away. As for this worthless slave, throw him into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’” Matthew 25:14-30

When we were small children, my brother and me, were asked to help dig up a part of the back yard. I can't remember why we were digging only that we had energy and the adults had less. My father's close friend and he, sitting in the lawn chairs, told us we would find buried treasure, if we would keep digging. Every so often they would toss a dime or a nickel into the dirt, without us seeing, and we would scream in joy when we found the "treasure." Many folks dream of finding real buried or submerged treasure, but rarely are those treasure of lore found.  Somethings are meant to stay buried. And some things, like the gifts we have been given, are meant to be shared and multiplied. It means taking risks, and taking risks is very hard.

        A Sunday Litany

Great Creator, author of sea and sky

every corner of the earth is blessed

each creature has a gift to offer

and each child has treasure to share.

Precious Lord, take away our fear and help us to shine.

We often shrink from sharing our gifts

they seem paltry and insufficient

We judge ourselves with the world's eyes

rather than listening to your heart.

Precious Lord, take away our fear and help us to shine.

Help us to move from fear to faith

taking our small gifts and talents

as blessing for the others around us

making the world a better place.

Precious Lord, take away our fear and help us to shine.

You know our hearts are fearful and anxious

we think we can never match our neighbors.

Precious Lord, take away our fear and help us to shine.

When we hide the gifts you've given

we do not let your treasures shine forth.

Precious Lord, take away our fear and help us to shine.

You have promised to bless us daily

as we step forth in faith trusting in your love. 

Precious Lord, take away our fear and help us to shine. Amen.

Yeast

The Pharisees and Sadducees came, and to test Jesus they asked him to show them a sign from heaven. He answered them, ‘When it is evening, you say, “It will be fair weather, for the sky is red.” And in the morning, “It will be stormy today, for the sky is red and threatening.” You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times. An evil and adulterous generation asks for a sign, but no sign will be given to it except the sign of Jonah.’ Then he left them and went away. When the disciples reached the other side, they had forgotten to bring any bread. Jesus said to them, ‘Watch out, and beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees.’ They said to one another, ‘It is because we have brought no bread.’ And becoming aware of it, Jesus said, ‘You of little faith, why are you talking about having no bread? Do you still not perceive? Do you not remember the five loaves for the five thousand, and how many baskets you gathered? Or the seven loaves for the four thousand, and how many baskets you gathered? How could you fail to perceive that I was not speaking about bread? Beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees!’ Then they understood that he had not told them to beware of the yeast of bread, but of the teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees. Matthew 16:1-12

I have been baking bread most of my life, first helping my mother, then making it for my family. There is an art to baking, a careful way of being that cannot be rushed. As a child, I loved watching the Three Stooges with my brother, laughing at their antics, and understanding how foolish they were to believe they know how to make and do things they had never learned. I learned early that adults can be foolish and misleading in life. Even as we laugh with their silliness, we can also recognize the real danger. Jesus tells us to beware of the teaching of those who would entertain us and lead us astray.

Gracious God, you gave us your wisdom

instilled in our hearts is your compassion

taught us how to care or our neighbors

and trust that your will provide the blessings.

We often get thinking about we lack

we take on teaching from exotic entertainers

Believing that what you have given is not enough

running to and fro after much foolishness.

Help us to remember how we are truly blessed

renew our hearts of compassion and love

help us to offer what we have to our neighbors

trusting that there is abundance from you always. Amen.

Compassion

After Jesus had left that place, he passed along the Sea of Galilee, and he went up the mountain, where he sat down. Great crowds came to him, bringing with them the lame, the maimed, the blind, the mute, and many others. They put them at his feet, and he cured them, so that the crowd was amazed when they saw the mute speaking, the maimed whole, the lame walking, and the blind seeing. And they praised the God of Israel. Then Jesus called his disciples to him and said, ‘I have compassion for the crowd, because they have been with me now for three days and have nothing to eat; and I do not want to send them away hungry, for they might faint on the way.’ The disciples said to him, ‘Where are we to get enough bread in the desert to feed so great a crowd?’ Jesus asked them, ‘How many loaves have you?’ They said, ‘Seven, and a few small fish.’ Then ordering the crowd to sit down on the ground, he took the seven loaves and the fish; and after giving thanks he broke them and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds. And all of them ate and were filled; and they took up the broken pieces left over, seven baskets full. Those who had eaten were four thousand men, besides women and children. After sending away the crowds, he got into the boat and went to the region of Magadan. Matthew 15:29-39

We are bombarded this time of year by images of needy people. Many organizations beg for us to send money so they can feed people far away. A nice gesture and yet we can miss the people in need right in front of us. They may not be holding signs and they may seem fine to us. Jesus didn't have to ask if they were hungry as he knew by looking that they were. We need only to look around at our neighbors and we can find desperate need. May we have the eyes and heart of Jesus this season and always.

Gracious Creator, who know all our needs

you made us to live in a land of plenty

you blessed us richly with good food

and yet so many are in need of a good meal.

We often say we don't know anyone hungry

we often close our eyes to the needs nearby

some have so much and throw much away

and lock themselves away from seeing need.

Help us to have the compassionate eyes of Jesus

give us loving hearts to see the needs in our midst

help us to share the abundant blessings we have

so the miracles of love might flourish here. Amen.

Even the Dogs

Jesus left that place and went away to the district of Tyre and Sidon. Just then a Canaanite woman from that region came out and started shouting, ‘Have mercy on me, Lord, Son of David; my daughter is tormented by a demon.’ But he did not answer her at all. And his disciples came and urged him, saying, ‘Send her away, for she keeps shouting after us.’ He answered, ‘I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.’ But she came and knelt before him, saying, ‘Lord, help me.’ He answered, ‘It is not fair to take the children’s food and throw it to the dogs.’ She said, ‘Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.’ Then Jesus answered her, ‘Woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.’ And her daughter was healed instantly. Matthew 15:21-28

Growing up we have several dogs who were part of the family. Mark and I have had several dogs who we and our children have loved and lost. I loved to refer to our dog at the time with nicknames, including hoover, electrolux and broom. When our children were small, having a dog meant not having to clean up the food mess on an hourly basis. In recent years, there may not be so much dropped, but I still was grateful for their help in the cleaning. And I am aware how easy it is to exclude people and other creatures. Yet the brave Canaanite woman, faced down the son of God, and told him that all were included.

Wondrous Creator, source of all life

you call us all your beloved children

you made us in a beautiful diversity

and call us all to seek peace together.

We live in segregation and isolation

we like our comfort and fail to include

we pretend not to see the harm we do

and act like everything is acceptable.

Help us all to get down from pedestals

help us be humble to see the excluded

open our arms and hearts to make room

for all of God's beloved at the table. Amen.

Stumbling and Forgiveness

Jesus said to his disciples, ‘Occasions for stumbling are bound to come, but woe to anyone by whom they come! It would be better for you if a millstone were hung around your neck and you were thrown into the sea than for you to cause one of these little ones to stumble. Be on your guard! If another disciple sins, you must rebuke the offender, and if there is repentance, you must forgive. And if the same person sins against you seven times a day, and turns back to you seven times and says, “I repent”, you must forgive.’ The apostles said to the Lord, ‘Increase our faith!’ The Lord replied, ‘If you had faith the size of a mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, “Be uprooted and planted in the sea”, and it would obey you. Luke 17:1-6

We all stumble. We all make mistakes. We all lose faith at times. Last week, when preparing my blog, in my anxiety, I used this Monday's readings for last Monday. I was anxious about the then upcoming surgery the next day and could not focus well. Our human nature is flawed and we are bound to make mistakes and sometimes hurt others. Jesus encourages us to simply repent, admit our mistakes and ask for forgiveness. Americans are not good ask admitting mistakes, and often justify their actions instead of seeking forgiveness. That behavior makes things worse. Our best behavior is to repent, ask forgiveness and admit to our broken humanity. There are always people who will forgive us, help us up and set us on the road again.

Wondrous Creator, you love us all

as we stumble and fall, you love us

as we try to hide mistakes, you love us

and when we admit the errors, you love us still.

We often disrupt communities with stumbling

we tear apart the fabric by defending mistakes

you call us to confess and ask for forgiveness

and trust we will be renewed and made whole again.

May we be humble enough to admit stumbling

may we confess our mistakes for the sake of others

make us those who shower forgiveness  on all

and love one another in all our human frailties. Amen.

Sunday, November 12, 2023 Proper 27

Sunday, November 12, 2023 Proper 27

Jesus said, “Then the kingdom of heaven will be like this. Ten bridesmaids took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. When the foolish took their lamps, they took no oil with them; but the wise took flasks of oil with their lamps. As the bridegroom was delayed, all of them became drowsy and slept. But at midnight there was a shout, ‘Look! Here is the bridegroom! Come out to meet him.’ Then all those bridesmaids got up and trimmed their lamps. The foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’ But the wise replied, ‘No! there will not be enough for you and for us; you had better go to the dealers and buy some for yourselves.’ And while they went to buy it, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went with him into the wedding banquet; and the door was shut. Later the other bridesmaids came also, saying, ‘Lord, lord, open to us.’ But he replied, ‘Truly I tell you, I do not know you.’ Keep awake therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour.” Matthew 25:1-13

It can be hard to wait, and while waiting, to stay awake. Waiting can also make us anxious to the point of despair. Sometimes we can convince ourselves that the blessings are never coming. We give up and let our light fade out. Today, we are called to stay away and be wise, to trust that God is drawing near, even when we are worn down and despairing. It can be very hard since the world and our challenges wear us down. We can think we are forgotten or left out, but love is on the horizon, coming our way bringing new blessings for us all.

A Sunday Litany

Loving Creator, source of all light and joy

you give us your wisdom and compassion

you bless us time and time again

turning our tears of pain into tears of joy.

O Lord, make us always ready to receive the light of your love.

We often forget to be wise and ready

we are distracted by our daily challenges

we think we are on our own and despair

yet your love's light is always drawing near.

O Lord, make us always ready to receive the light of your love.

Help us to make ready for new blessings

help us to carry the torch of hope for others

make us your people again and again

and give us the strength to stay awake.

O Lord, make us always ready to receive the light of your love.

You have been generous and kind with us

help us share your blessings with everyone.

O Lord, make us always ready to receive the light of your love.

Break down the walls that keep us apart

make us always ready to spread your peace.

O Lord, make us always ready to receive the light of your love.

For you are all our beginnings and our ends

make us always ready to welcome you home. 

O Lord, make us always ready to receive the light of your love. Amen.

Give Them Something to Eat

Now when Jesus heard this, he withdrew from there in a boat to a deserted place by himself. But when the crowds heard it, they followed him on foot from the towns. When he went ashore, he saw a great crowd; and he had compassion for them and cured their sick. When it was evening, the disciples came to him and said, ‘This is a deserted place, and the hour is now late; send the crowds away so that they may go into the villages and buy food for themselves.’ Jesus said to them, ‘They need not go away; you give them something to eat.’ They replied, ‘We have nothing here but five loaves and two fish.’ And he said, ‘Bring them here to me.’ Then he ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven, and blessed and broke the loaves, and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds. And all ate and were filled; and they took up what was left over of the broken pieces, twelve baskets full. And those who ate were about five thousand men, besides women and children. Matthew 14:13-21

Miracles happen when food is offered. Whether what we have to offer is small or large, somehow that is where abundance and plenty begin. God always blesses our meager offerings with abundance. In time of scarcity and dwindling resources, we often forget this. As a church, we often forget this. Yet two fish and five loaves fed over 5000 people, with leftovers. We need to have faith that what we offer will be blessed, what we share will be multiplied and God will provide enough for us all.

Loving Creator, you are the source of abundance

you fed us and cared for us in our wilderness times

you stand with us when the fierce winds blow

and you lead us to pastures and places of plenty.

We are afraid and we hide the gifts you give us

we forget to share and in so doing worry about loss

we store up for ourselves treasures meant to share

and wonder why we feel isolated and so alone.

Turn our hearts of stone to flesh once again

help us to rejoice as we offer what we have

bless the little so it might be come abundance

and teach us daily the miracle of your love Amen.

Dangerous Dancing

At that time Herod the ruler heard reports about Jesus; 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.’ For Herod had arrested John, bound him, and put him in prison on account of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife, because John had been telling him, ‘It is not lawful for you to have her.’ Though Herod wanted to put him to death, he feared the crowd, because they regarded him as a prophet. But when Herod’s birthday came, the daughter of Herodias danced before the company, and she pleased Herod so much that he promised on oath to grant her whatever she might ask. Prompted by her mother, she said, ‘Give me the head of John the Baptist here on a platter.’ The king was grieved, yet out of regard for his oaths and for the guests, he commanded it to be given; he sent and had John beheaded in the prison. The head was brought on a platter and given to the girl, who brought it to her mother. His disciples came and took the body and buried it; then they went and told Jesus. Matthew 14:1-12

There are always those, in every generation, who are good at getting what they want. Watch any "reality" show and you will see those who have that kind of talent. Wrap that talent up in hate and resentment and dangerous outcomes result. The cruel and selfish too often get their way. John the Baptist lost his head because he told the truth and powerful people did not want to hear it. We are called, in our day and time, to be those who speak the truth and so not manipulate others for power and prestige.

Tender Creator, you shaped us for love

you molded us for compassion and kindness

you teach us your ways of mercy and truth

and have given us abundance and blessings.

We are too often petty and competitive

winning being our focus and our goal

we do not consider the ones who are crushed

we tell ourselves it is a sign of your blessing.

Help us to acknowledge our selfish way

so that we might humbly work for justice

may our days be filled again with your love

and our sights set on being your beloved. Amen.

At Home

When Jesus had finished these parables, he left that place. 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 13:53-58

Being at home and with your people means being known well and teased a lot.  Parents often retell the silly stories of their grown children's childhood antics, much to the embarrassment of their offspring. Old friends joke about foolish mistakes and youthful indiscretions. It is often hard to be seen as the full person one has become. Jesus felt the sting which we all have experienced, being disempowered by those who know us best. And yet, God know the depth and breadth of our power and capacity, since we are made in the Creator's image. We are more than our childhood follies and are promised God's blessings despite where we find ourselves or how people choose to see us.

Gracious Creator, you shape us from the beginning

calling us into being by the power of your spirit

placing your love permanently in our young hearts

and giving us growth and possibilities always.

Among our kin and in our home villages

we often feel diminished despite all the love 

once a place of comfort, now a place of testing

and we feel isolated and alone in our homes.

Help us today to see the promise in our relatives

give us your eyes to see the gifts that they bring

give us the compassion to be encouraging mentors 

so your gifts might be seen by the whole world. Amen.

Pearl of Great Price

‘The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which someone found and hid; then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. ‘Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls; on finding one pearl of great value, he went and sold all that he had and bought it. ‘Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was thrown into the sea and caught fish of every kind; when it was full, they drew it ashore, sat down, and put the good into baskets but threw out the bad. So it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come out and separate the evil from the righteous and throw them into the furnace of fire, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. ‘Have you understood all this?’ They answered, ‘Yes.’ And he said to them, ‘Therefore every scribe who has been trained for the kingdom of heaven is like the master of a household who brings out of his treasure what is new and what is old.’ Matthew 13:44-52

Often, it's hard to imagine and see the realm of God or the kingdom of heaven. Jesus is very clear that we are sought, desired and called by God, our Creator. Our world is full of pain, challenges and complex situations. And even in the midst of chaos, God is seeking us as pearls of great price, as treasures and as the beloved, desired of God. No matter what messes we find ourselves in, We are sought out and called needed by God.

Precious Creator, who calls us all beloved

you seek us out in our darkest places

you gather us, heal us and remake us 

giving us your loved embedded in our hearts.

We often dismiss your love for us

we think we are totally on our own

we struggle and grapple for control

forgetting that you seek us at all times.

Help us to see ourselves as your beloved

help us to see others as beloved as well

make us to be those full of your love today

so those around us see themselves with your eyes. Amen.

Far Away Hearts

Then Pharisees and scribes came to Jesus from Jerusalem and said, ‘Why do your disciples break the tradition of the elders? For they do not wash their hands before they eat.’ He answered them, ‘And why do you break the commandment of God for the sake of your tradition? For God said, “Honor your father and your mother,” and, “Whoever speaks evil of father or mother must surely die.” But you say that whoever tells father or mother, “Whatever support you might have had from me is given to God”, then that person need not honor the father. So, for the sake of your tradition, you make void the word of God. You hypocrites! Isaiah prophesied rightly about you when he said: “This people honors me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me; in vain do they worship me, teaching human precepts as doctrines.” ’ Then he called the crowd to him and said to them, ‘Listen and understand: it is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but it is what comes out of the mouth that defiles.’ Then the disciples approached and said to him, ‘Do you know that the Pharisees took offence when they heard what you said?’ He answered, ‘Every plant that my heavenly Father has not planted will be uprooted. Let them alone; they are blind guides of the blind. And if one blind person guides another, both will fall into a pit.’ But Peter said to him, ‘Explain this parable to us.’ Then he said, ‘Are you also still without understanding? Do you not see that whatever goes into the mouth enters the stomach, and goes out into the sewer? But what comes out of the mouth proceeds from the heart, and this is what defiles. For out of the heart come evil intentions, murder, adultery, fornication, theft, false witness, slander. These are what defile a person, but to eat with unwashed hands does not defile.’ Matthew 15:1-20

We humans are easily distracted and diverted. We can mean well, and try hard, and find ourselves far away from where we want to be. We can be swayed by popular speakers, celebrities, fad diets and the like, only to find ourselves crying out in pain and isolation. We get caught up in rules and forget to love God and our neighbor. Yet Jesus knew that all of the "right" living would not make us close to God. We are called to live with hearts full of love and compassion rather than deceit hidden in "right" living.

Compassionate Creator, you know our hearts

tender like a parent you invite us to learn

your ways of love, forgiveness and mercy

your good road of service and humility.

We hide behind rules and regulations

proud of our ability to live the "right" way

yet we fail to see the suffering around us

and fail to make our hearts tender and kind.

Help us, dear Lord, to renew our hearts

make us people who live to serve others

give us your heart of compassion and grace

so that your love might flow in our needy world. Amen.

All Saints' Sunday

All Saints' Sunday November 5, 2023

When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him. Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying: "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. "Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. "Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. "Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy. "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. "Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you." Matthew 5:1-12

This Sunday, church communities who were not able to gather on November 1st, will come together to celebrate the fest of all saints. We will remember the famous and the unknown saints who have gone before us. There is a joy and a melancholy this day, for we speak the names of those we love who are no longer present here with us. We trust them into the warm embrace of our loving God. And we cling to their examples, their lessons, so we might live a life of service and faithfulness like them, Their lives were not easy, and our can be a challenge too. Yet, we hear that we are blessed, even in our darkest and most painful moments. We can trust that God draws near to us, even when the world troubles and abuses us and our communities.

Loving Creator, source of all blessings

you shower love upon all the people

you call us to be your family here

and give us the strength to be your saints.

Lord, make us your blessings, for our world and in times of need. 

Our world is full of violence and hate

we can think you are far away from us

we imagine that we are left all on our own

yet daily, you draw closer in our challenges.

Lord, make us your blessings, for our world and in times of need. 

Help us to see your love at work around us

make us blessings to those who need your love

give us the strength to beat the world's pain

and offer all the needs to you, O Lord.

Lord, make us your blessings, for our world and in times of need. 

For you are our maker and redeemer

you hold our ancestors in your loving arms.

Lord, make us your blessings, for our world and in times of need. 

We fear needlessly since you are here

help us to see your blessings today.

Lord, make us your blessings, for our world and in times of need. 

Your love is more than enough blessings

help us to bring your blessings to our earth. 

Lord, make us your blessings, for our world and in times of need. Amen

Weeds

He put before them another parable: ‘The kingdom of heaven may be compared to someone who sowed good seed in his field; but while everybody was asleep, an enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and then went away. So when the plants came up and bore grain, then the weeds appeared as well. And the slaves of the householder came and said to him, “Master, did you not sow good seed in your field? Where, then, did these weeds come from?” He answered, “An enemy has done this.” The slaves said to him, “Then do you want us to go and gather them?” But he replied, “No; for in gathering the weeds you would uproot the wheat along with them. Let both of them grow together until the harvest; and at harvest time I will tell the reapers, Collect the weeds first and bind them in bundles to be burned, but gather the wheat into my barn.” ’ Matthew 13:24-30

Weeds can be devastating to farmers and gardeners. In my lifetime all sorts of chemicals were used to control and kill weeds. We found out, way too late, that most of those products caused cancers and ruined the soil. And our lives of faith are often disturbed by all sorts of weeds from folks who unintentionally undermine the community, to times when our exhaustion and pain overwhelms us. Weeds are everywhere. And we are reminded that God will deal with the weeds and we are to care for the growth, the tender ones, the most vulnerable shoots that would be destroyed by pulling up the weeds.

Loving Creator, you are the master gardener

you know us by names and design our seasons

you see the challenges and the weeds around us

and you promise to help us grow daily in faith.

We are often overwhelmed by the weeds 

we think they keep us from reaching our potential

yet the weeds teach us all of our limits

and show us the sacred earth is to be shared.

Help us to be tender gardeners here

give us eyes to focus on the tender ones

give us the strength to care for the vulnerable

and faith enough to trust you will supply all. Amen.

All Souls Day

‘Hear then the parable of the sower. When anyone hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what is sown in the heart; this is what was sown on the path. As for what was sown on rocky ground, this is the one who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy; yet such a person has no root, but endures only for a while, and when trouble or persecution arises on account of the word, that person immediately falls away. As for what was sown among thorns, this is the one who hears the word, but the cares of the world and the lure of wealth choke the word, and it yields nothing. But as for what was sown on good soil, this is the one who hears the word and understands it, who indeed bears fruit and yields, in one case a hundredfold, in another sixty, and in another thirty.’ Matthew 13:18-23

We remember all souls, the souls of all the faithful departed. In times past the church also prayed intentionally on this day for the souls in suffering in purgatory.  Listening to Jesus explain this parable of the sower, I am convinced that purgatory is often here on earth. We can be caught on the path, stumbling on rocky ground or snagged by thorns. In our time, I invite us to pray for those who are struggling, world worn and without community. May we be community to those who are isolated and fearful here and now.

Gracious Creator, Lord of time and space

you have called all people to your table

you name us all as your beloved children

and ache to keep us safe in this world.

The days of violence and war overwhelm

and we struggle with rocks and thorns daily

when we are alone we fear our destruction

yet you are with us even in the darkest times.

Help us to offer prayers today for everyone

you know their needs and their great fears

make us your loving presence in our time

and help us yield your love wherever we are. Amen.

For All the Saints

When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him. Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying: ‘Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. ‘Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. ‘Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. ‘Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. ‘Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy. ‘Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. ‘Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. ‘Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. ‘Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. Matthew 5:1-12

There are so many saints that do not get recognized in our church calendars. Yet those who have been faithful in previous generations, those who have suffered, been maligned, abused, tortured and misunderstood are counted among the saints. our Creator's love is not limited to our understanding of righteousness and faithfulness. So many people do not know who their ancestors were and ache to understand their lives and their sacrifices. Known or unknown they have been blessed and given the kingdom of heaven.

Loving God, you blessed our ancestors

and bless the 7th generation yet unborn

draw near to us this All Saints' Day

and help us remember the saints before us.

With little regard for themselves

they suffered and sacrificed for others

they lived lives of honor and humility

serving others first with no selfishness.

Help us to follow in the saints' footsteps

let us be those who show love in service

make us those who see God in our neighbor

and help us be a blessing in our time. Amen.