Third Sunday of Advent - Mary Letter Day Thirteen

Third Sunday of Advent -Mary Letter Day Thirteen

Surely, it is God who saves me;

I will trust in him and not be afraid. 

For the Lord is my stronghold and my sure defense,

and he will be my Savior. 

Therefore you shall draw water with rejoicing

from the springs of salvation. 

And on that day you shall say,

Give thanks to the Lord 

and call upon his Name; 

Make his deeds known among the peoples;

see that they remember that his Name is exalted. 

Sing the praises of the Lord, for he has done great things, 

and this is known in all the world. 

Cry aloud, inhabitants of Zion, ring out your joy,

for the great one in the midst of you is the Holy One of Israel. Isaiah 12:2-6

Dear Auntie Elizabeth,

Things are getting pretty desperate around here. The community is rallying around some leaders who want to have me punished. Several angry men showed up at our door the other night and demanded to come in and arrest me. Papa barred them from coming in and he and Joseph went out to speak to them. Fortunately, they did not have any legal authority and did not have any Roman guards with them. These men don't approve of the occupying government, of course none of us do, and I think they are taking their anger out on us. The conversation with Papa and Joseph was loud and scared Mama and I terribly. We clung together praying that our Lord would see us through the challenge. When Papa and Joseph finally came back inside, their anger was visible on their faces, although they said nothing about it. They told us both to hurry up and prepare for our departure. 

Since that night, we have been cooking and sewing like mad, getting supplies ready for our journey. Because they fear for me especially, Papa and Joseph are pouring over maps to find a route that will circumvent trouble as much as possible. This will make the trip much longer. The plan is to stay away from main roads and the highways, so that we aren't easily targeted. Joseph and Papa are arranging places for us to stay each night as we travel to Bethlehem. I guess before I was pretty ignorant of what people might do, but now I can say I am truly terrified. Joseph promises to keep me safe, although I can read the worry and fear on Mama's face most clearly. She does her best to hide it, but it is always there.

I doubt I will get the chance to see you before the baby is born, although I was really hoping to see little John. I am so sorry and very disappointed. I keep reminding myself that I said yes to the Lord, and that our God will protect us. I remember your words when we were together, how you told me not to fear for God was in charge.  I try to take that to heart, being cheerful as we go about our tasks, reminding Mama that God is with us. We are human, Auntie, and sometimes the worries and fears get to us and we sit a cry together when the men aren't around. Please pray for us, as I want to be strong and fear I cannot be.

Love always,

Mary

Mary Letter Day Twelve

1 In you, O Lord, 

have I taken refuge;

 let me never be put to shame; 

deliver me in your righteousness. 

2 Incline your ear to me; 

make haste to deliver me.  

3 Be my strong rock, 

a castle to keep me safe, 

for you are my crag

 and my stronghold;

for the sake of your Name, 

lead me and guide me. 

4 Take me out of the net that 

they have secretly set for me, 

for you are my tower of strength. 

5 Into your hands 

I commend my spirit, 

for you have redeemed me, 

O Lord, O God of truth. 

Psalm 31:1-5

Dear Auntie Elizabeth,

We are married! Oh, I had dreams since I was a little girl that my wedding would be glorious with a large party and lots of music and dancing. We are married, but the dreams I had did not match the day. It was just seven of us, Cousin Eli, the rabbi, his wife and young son along with the four of us in this household. We didn't dare announce it anywhere or have music and dancing to alert the neighbors. Mama made a splendid feast, and Papa made a sweet toast. We were careful to keep our celebration quiet because folks have been so very cruel. And yet, when all was said and done, we are married and happy about it. Joseph can now stay with me here as my husband. I'm still learning how to even say that!

Auntie, Joseph has been so tender and kind. He decided, before the wedding, that until the baby is delivered, he will sleep on a separate cot in my room. He wants to protect me and does not want to do anything to harm the baby. He sees that I am "great" with child and want me to have to whole bed. He did not say this, but I know he's a bit nervous around me in my condition. I know he has taken on a great responsibility by marrying me. He wants to do right by me, my family and the Lord. We talk into the night, every night, and I fall asleep to the sound of his voice. It makes me feel safe in these dangerous days.

I have heard your little boy John is thriving, getting fat on his mother's milk! And Papa said that Zechariah is overjoyed to be a father and to talk again. They can't keep him quiet Papa said! I am so grateful for your letters and your prayers!

Love,

Mary

Mary Letter Day Eleven

1 Do not fret yourself because of evildoers

 do not be jealous of those who do wrong. 

2 For they shall soon wither like the grass,

 and like the green grass fade away. 

3 Put your trust in the Lord and do good;

dwell in the land and feed on its riches. 

4 Take delight in the Lord, 

and he shall give you your heart's desire. 

5 Commit your way to the Lord

 and put your trust in him, 

 and he will bring it to pass. 

6 He will make your righteousness 

as clear as the light and your just dealing as the noonday.

7 Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him. 

8 Do not fret yourself over the one who prospers,

the one who succeeds in evil schemes.

9 Refrain from anger, leave rage alone;

do not fret yourself; it leads only to evil. 

10 For evildoers shall be cut off, 

 but those who wait upon the Lord shall possess the land. Psalm 37:1-11

Dear Aunt Elizabeth,

It has been quite a busy few weeks. I really thought I would be bored, having to stay at home, not being able to go into the town and to the market, but every moment we have kept beyond busy. Mama is finishing my dress for the ceremony, and between trying it on and sewing small things for the baby, we have kept very busy. We have been cooking all day, every day as well. Since we will be traveling soon, Mama is cooking and drying food like a fiend. And Papa is busy making travel arrangements, including bartering for a donkey to carry our packs and me from time to time. Joseph is here all the time and after the ceremony tomorrow, he will be able to move in with us.

Yesterday was a little overwhelming. The wise woman came and checked me out, thoroughly! I was so embarrassed as she didn't hesitate from examining me everywhere. She was gentle, I have to admit, but I was shaking the whole time. She spoke to me about how healthy the baby was, how strong I was, and that she could confirm, much to her shock, that I was indeed a virgin. Mama was in the room in the room the whole time and delighted in all the wise woman's reassurances. The hard news is that she believes I am due to deliver much sooner than we had expected. This trip will have to be hurried up so we can get home again! After she left, we had a conversation with Jospeh and Papa to share the news. They were frustrated but soon when back into planning mode. 

I hope I am up to all of this. Since never going farther away from home than your house, I hope I am not overwhelmed by all the strange people and sights. I often feel so awkward and so young, without the courage needed to deal with what lies ahead. I am worried about the pain of childbirth now, after yesterday, since the wise woman left nothing, I mean nothing out. I am so grateful for her wisdom and now completely terrified.

Much love,

Mary

Mary Letter Day Ten

1 O Lord, do not rebuke me in your anger;

 do not punish me in your wrath. 

2 For your arrows have already pierced me,

 and your hand presses hard upon me. 

3 There is no health in my flesh, 

because of your indignation; 

there is no soundness in my body, 

because of my sin. 

4 For my iniquities overwhelm me;

like a heavy burden they are 

too much for me to bear. 

5 My wounds stink and fester

by reason of my foolishness. 

6 I am utterly bowed down and prostrate;

I go about in mourning all the day long.

7 My loins are filled with searing pain;

 there is no health in my body. 

8 I am utterly numb and crushed;

I wail, because of the groaning of my heart. 

9 O Lord, you know all my desires, 

and my sighing is not hidden from you. 

10 My heart is pounding, my strength has failed me,

and the brightness of my eyes is gone from me. 

11 My friends and companions 

draw back from my affliction;

my neighbors stand afar off. Psalm 38:1-11

Dear Auntie,

I seemed to have grown bigger overnight, and no movement is easy anymore. I watched as you struggled to get up from a chair, and in my ignorance, I thought it was because of your age. Please forgive me. I tried to get up from a kitchen chair and needed Papa to help me up. I am awkward in every step I take and cannot see my feet anymore! One minute I was a slender young girl and now, well now, I waddle like a duck and am round as a ball. Nothing fits anymore, including my shoes, so I am wearing Papa's sandals.

We are planning to have our small little wedding in a few days, as they want us to be legal when we have to travel to Bethlehem. I wish we could have a real celebration with friends and family, but I don't have any friends anymore and it is dangerous to bring any family here. My closest friends won't talk or even look at me and we have been threatened and harassed by so many former neighbors. Mama is making me a dress, sewing all the time, preparing clothing for the baby as well. She stays up all hours, and despite the fact that Papa tells her to go to bed, she still sits up sewing by lantern light.

Joseph has been very attentive, despite all the troubles around us. He has been having meals with us every evening and sits out in the garden with me after dark. He tells me stories of his family and his life and his hopes for our life together. I am not afraid to marry him so much as I feel like I'm not ready to be a wife, let alone a mother. Yet God has called me to this and I will do my best to be faithful. I only wish it was easier at times.

love,

Mary

Mary Letter Day Nine

1 Give judgment for me, O Lord, 

for I have lived with integrity;

I have trusted in the Lord 

and have not faltered. 

2 Test me, O Lord, and try me;

 examine my heart and my mind. 

3 For your love is before my eyes;

 I have walked faithfully with you. 

4 I have not sat with the worthless,

 nor do I consort with the deceitful. 

5 I have hated the company of evildoers;

 I will not sit down with the wicked. 

6 I will wash my hands in innocence, O Lord, 

 that I may go in procession round your altar, 

7 Singing aloud a song of thanksgiving

 and recounting all your wonderful deeds. 

8 Lord, I love the house in which you dwell

and the place where your glory abides.

9 Do not sweep me away with sinners,

 nor my life with those who thirst for blood, 

10 Whose hands are full of evil plots,

 and their right hand full of bribes. 

11 As for me, I will live with integrity;

 redeem me, O Lord, and have pity on me. 

12 My foot stands on level ground;

 in the full assembly I will bless the Lord. Psalm 26

Dear Aunt Elizabeth,

The past week has been very challenging for all of us. Papa was confronted by elders from the temple who told him to consider himself and his family as outcasts. They told him that we are to do our worship of God in private since they do not think that we belong in temple. Our family has brought shame upon the community and upon ourselves. I am so angry and hurt as I know my parents were. You know them, Auntie, they are faithful and humble people, full of charity and kindness. How can our religious leaders cast us out in our time of need? And I feel like I have brought trouble on our household and family. Despite these hard days, we have really been trying to support each other and pray together, despite it all.

Personally, I have also been having some hard days as well. The news that we have to travel to Bethlehem has hit me very hard. I really want to stay here, safely in the arms of parents as the baby as the baby is born. Instead, we have to devise an elaborate and secret plan to get us safely to Bethlehem. I know I'm being selfish, but I am struggling to understand what the Lord wants from me. This is all too much. And on top of it all, tomorrow the wise women come to examine me and I'm terrified! Sometimes, like right now, it seems to me to be more than I can handle.

Auntie, God's plan for me is unfolding in ways that I don't particularly like. I didn't expect ease, but I didn't expect trouble compounded on trouble. Pray for me please, and for Joseph. We are set to be married soon, and he has been so supportive, but he is also so silent sometimes. I pray that God will make me calmer and more patience in the coming days.

Much love,

Mary

Mary Letter Day Eight

1 To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul; 

my God, I put my trust in you; 

let me not be humiliated, 

nor let my enemies triumph over me. 

2 Let none who look to you be put to shame; 

 let the treacherous be disappointed in their schemes. 

3 Show me your ways, O Lord, 

and teach me your paths. 

4 Lead me in your truth and teach me, 

 for you are the God of my salvation; 

in you have I trusted all the day long. 

5 Remember, O Lord, your compassion and love,

 for they are from everlasting. 

 6 Remember not the sins of my youth and my transgressions;

 remember me according to your love 

and for the sake of your goodness,

 O Lord. 

 7 Gracious and upright is the Lord; 

 therefore he teaches sinners in his way. 

 8 He guides the humble in doing right 

 and teaches his way to the lowly. 

 9 All the paths of the Lord are love and faithfulness 

to those who keep his covenant and his testimonies. Psalm 25:1-9

Dear Aunt Elizabeth,

I am so glad to hear that you and your little boy are well and healthy. How good is the Lord? Such good news to know you came through labor and all the challenges of childbirth and have a healthy son. And even more important to me is that you are healing well and are strong. I prayed so hard that you would be all right. You are my role model, and your strength gives me strength.

Things have taken a bit of a turn here. Joseph was informed yesterday that he has to go to register and pay his tax in Bethlehem! We were all so upset and now we have to find a way to keep this child safe and also follow the rules of the occupiers. These people don't care if there is a child coming, and since I will be his wife, we have might have to both be present! Can you imagine the nerve?

The plans are being made furiously now, to get us married and to figure out how to safely travel to Bethlehem and back. I really want to have this baby at home, with my mother by my side. I don't think I can do any of this without her. By the way, Mama has made arrangements to have me examined by some wise women. Fortunately, we have some relations that are willing to come and see me, without bringing more shame on my family. Ruth and Anna and both old and crippled but experts in childbirth and the challenges of this female body.

By the way, I see to get bigger and rounder by the day. The little one is kicking and moving around, especially when I am trying to sleep! Pray for me Auntie and I am always praying for you.

Much love,

Mary

Second Sunday of Advent - Mary Letter Day Seven

Second Sunday of Advent - Mary Letter Day Seven

In the fifteenth year of the reign of Emperor Tiberius, when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, and Herod was ruler of Galilee, and his brother Philip ruler of the region of Ituraea and Trachonitis, and Lysanias ruler of Abilene, during the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas, the word of God came to John son of Zechariah in the wilderness. He went into all the region around the Jordan, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins, as it is written in the book of the words of the prophet Isaiah, "The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: 'Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be made low, and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways made smooth; and all flesh shall see the salvation of God.'" Luke 3:1-6

Dear Auntie,

I know you are close to the birthing time and hope you are still feeling strong and healthy. The child you carry is a blessing from God and will do great things in the world. We both have big responsibilities with the offspring our Lord has placed within us, both now as they grow with us and in their growing years to come. I worry that I am not able to be a good mother, let alone able to protect this little one when he arrives. You taught me so much while I was with you, and Mama has been trying to imprint me with all of her wisdom. 

The recent days have been very challenging for us. Mama and I were out doing our marketing before the Sabbath, when several of our favorite merchants, the flour and the fruit sellers, both said terrible things to me, shaming both of us. We were so upset, we ran home and sent Papa out to pick up our purchases. He came back, red-faced and angry. They said terrible things to him as well. Later this week, late at night, a rock flew through one of our windows. Papa wants me to stay inside from now one for my safety, with Mama and Joseph agreeing with him. I feel like a captive, and on top of that, none of my friends will speak to me and they turn away when we are in the streets. So, here I am, a prisoner in my own home. I haven't done anything wrong.

Papa, Mama and Joseph have been making plans for the wedding, which will now have to happen in our house, without nay guests except for our families. Finding a Rabbi who is willing to marry us has been a real problem. We think Joseph's cousin, Simon, a Rabbi from several villages west, is willing to come here and marry us. He is young and fearless, thank the Lord!

I try to be brave, Auntie, but some days it is really hard. I go out to the garden, late at night to say my prayers and to look at the night sky. It gives me comfort and helps me relax so I can sleep. The cool night air reminds me of our many nights together, staring up at the stars, pondering the mystery of why we were chosen to bring God's love into the world. The world doesn't seem to want it! Pray for me and I am praying for you.

Love 

Mary

Mary Letter Day Six

1 Protect me, O God, 

for I take refuge in you; 

I have said to the Lord, 

"You are my Lord, 

my good above all other."

2 All my delight is upon the godly

 that are in the land, 

upon those who are noble 

among the people. 

 3 But those who run after other gods 

 shall have their troubles multiplied. 

 4 Their libations of blood 

I will not offer,

 nor take the names 

of their gods upon my lips. 

 5 O Lord, you are my portion 

and my cup; 

 it is you who uphold my lot. 

 6 My boundaries enclose 

a pleasant land; 

 indeed, I have a goodly heritage. 

 7 I will bless the Lord who gives me counsel; 

 my heart teaches me, night after night. 

 8 I have set the Lord always before me; 

 because he is at my right hand I shall not fall. 

 9 My heart, therefore, is glad, and my spirit rejoices; 

 my body also shall rest in hope. 

10 For you will not abandon me to the grave,

 nor let your holy one see the Pit. 

11 You will show me the path of life; 

 in your presence there is fullness of joy,

 and in your right hand are pleasures for evermore. Psalm 16

Dear Auntie,

I am safely home, and it is late at night as I write to you. Joseph was indeed very careful as Papa had instructed, and we were able to talk for the roads were not overly busy. We haven't had much time alone to talk through all that has happened, so it was a good journey in that way. He is very supportive, although I know he's a bit scared and neither of us has all the answers to our own questions. We laughed a good deal about the circumstances we find ourselves in, knowing no one would believe that we are the caretakers of the son of God. It's even scary to say out loud. 

We had a bit of trouble as we approached our village. Rumors have been circulating about why I was away, and the gossips assumed the worst of me. Several young men threw rotten fruit at us as we passed their stand. I covered up with the scarf you gave me, and Joseph tried to cover us both. We were a mess when we arrived home! Mama thought I had been bleeding or something I guess, by the look on her face. It was kind of comical and later, at supper, we laughed about it. But this is no joke, people are ready to condemn me. And Joseph as well as my parents! How cruel people are!

I am tired from my trip but so glad to be at home again. Mama wrapped me in her arms and wouldn't let me go for a long time. I know this is hard on both of them, and they are trying to make the best of it. I can see in their faces the worry they carry. Please pray for us. Serving our Lord is never as easy as people say it is. Our God give us gifts and they can also be great challenges. I have to trust the Lord will see us through.

Much love,

Mary

Mary Letter Day Five

‘My soul magnifies the Lord, 

 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, 

for he has looked with favor on 

the lowliness of his servant. 

 Surely, from now on all generations 

will call me blessed; 

for the Mighty One has done 

great things for me, 

 and holy is his name. 

His mercy is for those who fear him

 from generation to generation. 

He has shown strength with his arm; 

 he has scattered the proud in 

the thoughts of their hearts. 

He has brought down

the powerful from their thrones, 

and lifted up the lowly; 

he has filled the hungry with good things, 

 and sent the rich away empty. 

He has helped his servant Israel,

 in remembrance of his mercy, 

according to the promise 

he made to our ancestors,

to Abraham and to his descendants forever.’ Luke 1:46-55

Dear Mama and Papa,

First, I want to thank you for several things. I am so grateful for you allowing me to spend all this time with Auntie Elizabeth. She has helped me with so much! I am no longer afraid of what God has in store for me, despite all the real dangers that lie ahead. I am also so thankful that you accepted Joseph's request that we would be married when I get home! I know this is not what you hoped for, and the wedding will have to be so small and with no guests. Yet, your open hearts and kindness has really encouraged me and given me hope. Despite it all your love and support will see me through.

I am so looking forward to coming home. I am growing very round, and it will be hard to hide my circumstances. I am happy to stay hidden at home, if that's what you think is best. I know it is hard to believe that this is a miracle child, a gift from our Lord, yet I am growing stronger and stronger in faith in these last days. I have found myself singing joyfully in the strangest moments, as if the little one inside of me is making me stronger by the day. 

Joseph will be here soon for the trip home. Auntie insists that we travel slowly and take many stops so that I may rest. I think she is being over cautious. I am excited to be home again but will be careful since I now have another life to protect. Please pray for safe and quick travel for our journey.

Love,

Mary

Mary Letter Day Four

1 How long, O Lord? will you 

   forget me for ever?

    how long will you hide 

    your face from me? 

2 How long shall I have 

    perplexity in my mind, 

  and grief in my heart, 

    day after day?

     how long shall my enemy 

    triumph over me? 

3 Look upon me and answer me, 

    O Lord my God;

  give light to my eyes,

     lest I sleep in death; 

4 Lest my enemy say, "I have prevailed over him,"

  and my foes rejoice that I have fallen. 

5 But I put my trust in your mercy;

  my heart is joyful because of your saving help. 

6 I will sing to the Lord, 

    or he has dealt with me richly; 

    I will praise the Name of the Lord Most High.

     Psalm 13

Dear Mama and Papa,

I have made it safely to Aunt Elizabeth's home. Joseph drove the cart carefully and well. We had much time to talk, and he shared with me the dream he had. An angel spoke to him in a dream and told him that I was carrying the son of the most high. The angel told Joseph to not be afraid and to protect us in every way possible. Despite everything he wishes to marry me! I told him of my dreams, especially the one where the angel told me not to be afraid that God was with me. We both laughed and admitted we are still terrified!

I know all of this is so very hard for you. You have been so loving and supportive throughout my life. And this put you in danger as well as me. And I know, somehow, some way, our Lord will use this for the good of many. I appreciate you giving me time with Auntie. She has already cheered me up and made me laugh. She kidded about how the Lord had silenced her husband. And she too is afraid, because of her age and all. Yet she has really been encouraging me and teaching me what I need to know. 

Joseph should have returned by now. I think he will want to make wedding arrangements with you. It will have to be done quietly. And Papa, I hope you will be kind to him. He's scared and worried that he is taking on more than he can handle. Pray for us, please. I need you love and support now more than ever.

love,

Mary

Mary Letter Day Three

1 Happy are they whose 

    way is blameless,

   who walk in the law of the Lord! 

2 Happy are they who

 observe his decrees

  and seek him with all their hearts! 

3 Who never do any wrong, 

  but always walk in his ways. 

4 You laid down your commandments,

  that we should fully keep them. 

5 Oh, that my ways were 

    made so direct

  that I might keep your statutes!

6 Then I should not be put to shame,

   when I regard all your                 commandments.

7 I will thank you with an 

    unfeigned heart, 

  when I have learned 

your righteous judgments.

8 I will keep your statutes; 

   do not utterly forsake me. Psalm 119:1-8

Dear Aunt Elizabeth,

I did a very hard thing last night. I told Mama and Papa about my situation, promising I had never been with a man. They immediately called for Joseph, who was shocked at the news. Auntie, he's a good man and very kind, but I could see the anger and confusion on his face. He said very little, leaning back while Papa fired question after question at me. I felt like a naughty child. I tried to explain about my dreams and how an angel of the Lord told me that Yahweh has made a miracle of me and the child, to bring peace and love to the world. Papa tried to believe me but finally burst out with, "but girls don't have prophetic dreams, angels don't visit girls, and our God does not talk directly to women!" I couldn't hold back the tears. It was awful. 

I was up early this morning, at first light, to go sit by the water and pray. I hadn't slept much during the night. My head was spinning, and my heart was pounding. I really didn't know what to do. I finally waded into the water to cool my spirit and draw myself close to the waters of life. Somehow it calmed me and gave me some comfort. I went back home and asked if I could take some time to visit with you and Zachariah. They were reluctant at first but the realized I would be out of their hair for a few days, and they would have time to think and pray.

I am so glad to be coming to spend time with you. The anxiety and tension at home here is more than I can bear! Thank you for opening your home to me!

Much love,

Mary

Between Heaven and Earth - Mary Letter Day Two

One day, as he was teaching the people in the temple and telling the good news, the chief priests and the scribes came with the elders and said to him, ‘Tell us, by what authority are you doing these things? Who is it who gave you this authority?’ He answered them, ‘I will also ask you a question, and you tell me: Did the baptism of John come from heaven, or was it of human origin?’ They discussed it with one another, saying, ‘If we say, “From heaven”, he will say, “Why did you not believe him?” But if we say, “Of human origin”, all the people will stone us; for they are convinced that John was a prophet.’ So they answered that they did not know where it came from. Then Jesus said to them, ‘Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things.’ Luke 20:1-8

Dear Auntie Elizabeth, 

I have heard from Mama that you are with child! I am so excited for you and a little bit afraid as well. This is a blessing from heaven, of course, but it is ever so challenging on your body. I have not yet told Mama of my bodily concerns as I want her to revel in your joy. I pray you will take care of yourself and be strong. I find being out in the open air, in our garden, makes me feel less afraid. Somehow, I feel buoyed between heaven and earth, caught up in possibilities rather than all my fears. I have been sick in the garden too, where no one can see me. I have had so many vivid dreams lately. It is as if the Lord is speaking to me directly, showing me signs of hope and possibility. 

Auntie, I really don't know what to do. At some point I will have to talk with Joseph and my parents. Joseph will probably walk away from me, and my loving parents will probably send me away. Oh, I don't know what to do, Auntie, and feel like a child running back and forth. I pray all through the day and when I wake up at night. Please pray for me that our Lord will send me a way through this mess. Maybe I can come visit with you and gain courage from you.

Love,

Mary

First Sunday of Advent - Mary Letter Day One

December 1, 2024       Advent One

1 To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul; my God, I put my trust in you; let me not be humiliated, nor let my enemies triumph over me.

2 Let none who look to you be put to shame; let the treacherous be disappointed in their schemes.

3 Show me your ways, O Lord, and teach me your paths. 

4 Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; in you have I trusted all the day long. 

5 Remember, O Lord, your compassion and love, for they are from everlasting. 

6 Remember not the sins of my youth and my transgressions; remember me according to your love 

and for the sake of your goodness, O Lord. 

7 Gracious and upright is the Lord; therefore he teaches sinners in his way. 

8 He guides the humble in doing right and teaches his way to the lowly. 

9 All the paths of the Lord are love and faithfulness to those who keep his covenant and his testimonies. Psalm 25:1-9

A note: Beginning in Advent through Epiphany Day, I dedicate this time to the Mary letters. I pray these will give you a sense of joy and hope.

Dear Auntie,

I am terrified and have no one to turn to. I have been up all night, praying the psalms, hoping the Lord will send me guidance and direction. I stood outside in the moonlight, the air was crisp and very cool, and I felt nothing but terribly alone and shivering cold. I hope what I say to you, you will keep it a secret. I am so afraid! Auntie, I have missed my monthly and know what that means but I have never, ever been with a man. Mama taught me what can happen, and I have never even been tempted. I have been a good, faithful daughter to Mama and Papa. I say my prayers and live following all the rules of faith. Yet, here I am, huddled inside by the dying fire, writing to you in my panic and fear. Auntie, I have been sick to my stomach all times of day and night. This can't be happening to me! Mama and Papa will be so angry, and what will I say to Joseph! Will you pray for me so I can know what to do? Can you help me? I may need to come stay with you for a time. Would you let me stay with you? I am troubled in body and spirit, Auntie. Please pray I can find a way through this, please.

Love,

Mary

                                            A Litany for Advent One    

    

Loving Creator, you dwell with the unlikely

the forlorn, the weary and the outcasts all

to show us the true nature of your love

which dwells with our deepest humanity.

Lord, let us always be courageous and faithful like Mary.

We are overcome by frightening situations

the world has grown scary and confusing

we run to our safety, shutting love out

waiting for our world to change for the better.

Lord, let us always be courageous and faithful like Mary.

Yet you have call us to be faithful and brave

to carry on like Mary did with all the ridicule

to live with your love deep in our hearts

turning the world into your loving home.

Lord, let us always be courageous and faithful like Mary.

Let us carry the light of faith this season

so we might shine your love light here.

Lord, let us always be courageous and faithful like Mary.

We may stumble and get lost sometimes

but you have promised to guide us always.

Lord, let us always be courageous and faithful like Mary.

Let us be fully human and fully faithful

carrying your life and your joy to the world.

Lord, let us always be courageous and faithful like Mary. Amen.

The Stones Would Cry Out

After he had said this, he went on ahead, going up to Jerusalem. When he had come near Bethphage and Bethany, at the place called the Mount of Olives, he sent two of the disciples, saying, ‘Go into the village ahead of you, and as you enter it you will find tied there a colt that has never been ridden. Untie it and bring it here. If anyone asks you, “Why are you untying it?” just say this: “The Lord needs it.” ’ So those who were sent departed and found it as he had told them. As they were untying the colt, its owners asked them, ‘Why are you untying the colt?’ They said, ‘The Lord needs it.’ Then they brought it to Jesus; and after throwing their cloaks on the colt, they set Jesus on it. As he rode along, people kept spreading their cloaks on the road. As he was now approaching the path down from the Mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to praise God joyfully with a loud voice for all the deeds of power that they had seen, saying, ‘Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven, and glory in the highest heaven!’ Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to him, ‘Teacher, order your disciples to stop.’ He answered, ‘I tell you, if these were silent, the stones would shout out.’ Luke 19:28-40

The church year's end has come, and we find ourselves hearing the story of Jesus' triumphal entrance into Jerusalem. The great and glorious celebration before the ultimate human drama at Calvary. Today is also Black Friday, when the commercialism of Christmas, the panicked buying and competing is at it's worst. And yet nowhere do we hear Jesus tell us to panic or compete. We are invited, as we face into Advent, to slow down, to listen, and to renew our hearts. There is nothing we need but the tender and fierce Savior of the world to come and inhabit our hearts.

Prescious Creator, you love all creation

you know the song of the hills and rocks

you hear the whales' songs and bird songs

and hear our cries in the deep dark nights.

We want conquerors and great winners

who will triumph over all the world's ills

when you have shown us how to serve

and how your loving changes everything.

Let us quiet our hearts and leave anxiety aside

knowing you are the kindest ruler of all creation

you give us our freedom and call us to love

despite all of the challenges here, you are with us. Amen.

Thanksgiving Day

Thanksgiving Day

Jesus said, "I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your span of life? And why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not clothed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you-- you of little faith? Therefore, do not worry, saying, `What will we eat?' or `What will we drink?' or `What will we wear?' For it is the Gentiles who strive for all these things; and indeed, your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But strive first for the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Matthew 6:25-33

Thanksgiving is a wonderful and challenging holiday. We live in an abundant land where there is enough for everyone and yet, there are too many hungry and without a home. We tell the story of the first Thanksgiving, here in Massachusetts, while we know the settlers were destitute and only survived by the kindness of the Native peoples who the settlers quickly slaughtered and abused. Yet, among many Native families, we have much to be thankful for and it is part of every tribal tradition to set aside time to give thanks. Jesus reminds us all that we are all blessed by our Creator and we are given daily what we need. Our work is to live a life of justice and caring, a life that honors our Creator in everything and everywhere we are. May we take time always to give thanks and to share our many blessings.

A Litany for Thanksgiving 2024

Creator of Abundance, we come to thank you

for the countless blessings you give us all

for food enough, and love beyond measure

and for the ways you bring us all back home.

Thank you, Lord, for all your love and bounteous blessings.

We are a divided land and a divided people

anxious about the future, yearning for the past

we fail to share the abundance you give

and ignore the beauty that surrounds us all.

Thank you, Lord, for all your love and bounteous blessings.

You remind us not to worry about our needs

for you bring us sustenance and healing

you surround us with friends and neighbors

who teach us again and again to give thanks.

Thank you, Lord, for all your love and bounteous blessings.

The birds do not worry nor do the lilies

you have made them glorious in their time.

Thank you, Lord, for all your love and bounteous blessings.

We fear the coming winters and our failing

yet you are blessing us in every season of life.

Thank you, Lord, for all your love and bounteous blessings.

Make our hearts grateful today and always

for you our the source of all life and all love. 

Thank you, Lord, for all your love and bounteous blessings. Amen.

Down from the Sycamore Tree

He entered Jericho and was passing through it. A man was there named Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax-collector and was rich. He was trying to see who Jesus was, but on account of the crowd he could not, because he was short in stature. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore

 tree to see him, because he was going to pass that way.

 When Jesus came to the place, he looked up and said to him, ‘Zacchaeus, hurry and come down; for I must stay at your house today.’ So he hurried down and was happy to welcome him. All who saw it began to grumble and said, ‘He has gone to be the guest of one who is a sinner.’ Zacchaeus stood there and said to the Lord, 

‘Look, half of my possessions, Lord, I will give to the poor; and if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I will pay back four times as much.’ 

Then Jesus said to him, ‘Today salvation has come to this house, because he too is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek out and to save the lost.’ Luke 19:1-10

We had a huge Sycamore tree in my parent's yard. It towered over the sunporch and sent shade across the yard. The bark was rough and hard to climb as there were very few low branches. As a child, I often wondered how Zaccheus climbed that tree, since I was of short stature then and couldn't scale the tree. We sang his song often in Sunday School and I had much time to wonder. Now I realize the point of the story is not the climb but the coming down to invite the incarnate God into Zaccheus' home. He moved from curiosity to action when Jesus called him by name. May we be ready to climb down and open our hearts and homes to the living God today.

Gracious Creator, Lord of abundance

we often hide in the trees of life

you call us each by name and invite us

to come down from hiding and live.

We like our comforts and safety

and hide ourselves from the world

yet despite our reluctance and fears

you call us to open our hearts and homes.

Precious Savior, call us to action here

give us the faith to serve our world

give us and extra measure of love

so we might share it with our neighbors. Amen.

Lord, Let Me See Again

Then he took the twelve aside and said to them, ‘See, we are going up to Jerusalem, and everything that is written about the Son of Man by the prophets will be accomplished. For he will be handed over to the Gentiles; and he will be mocked and insulted and spat upon. After they have flogged him, they will kill him, and on the third day he will rise again.’ But they understood nothing about all these things; in fact, what he said was hidden from them, and they did not grasp what was said. As he approached Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging. When he heard a crowd going by, he asked what was happening. They told him, ‘Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.’ Then he shouted, ‘Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!’ Those who were in front sternly ordered him to be quiet; but he shouted even more loudly, ‘Son of David, have mercy on me!’ Jesus stood still and ordered the man to be brought to him; and when he came near, he asked him, ‘What do you want me to do for you?’ He said, ‘Lord, let me see again.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Receive your sight; your faith has saved you.’ Immediately he regained his sight and followed him, glorifying God; and all the people, when they saw it, praised God. Luke 18:31-43

This past year, I had some eye surgery to correct dimming eyes. I remember the joy of seeing so much more clearly afterward. No, it was not a miracle healing, but a miracle of modern science. It made me realize that we are so blind so much of the time, unable to see what is right in front of us. We ignore the needs of the people we encounter; we try to silence them as the disciples did, and we refuse to follow Jesus in the way of compassion and caring. A persistent unnamed beggar was healed by Jesus and the man immediately followed him. We are often made better but fail to follow Jesus in gratitude and humility. So may we today, like the man who sight is restored, follow in the way of Jesus' love.

Compassionate Creator, source of healing

you seek those who are suffering and alone

begging to be restored to life and health

and touch them with your healing light.

We are blind to the needs around us

we fail to see the suffering and blame them

we do not see the gifts of our diverse world

and try to silence those who cry out to you.

Lord, let us all see again with your eyes

may our hearts be moved with compassion

may we see the stranger as a relative

and all the world worthy of your healing love. Amen.

Let the Children Come to Me

People were bringing even infants to him that he might touch them; and when the disciples saw it, they sternly ordered them not to do it. But Jesus called for them and said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it.’ A certain ruler asked him, ‘Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?’ Jesus said to him, ‘Why do you call me good? No one is good but God alone. You know the commandments: “You shall not commit adultery; You shall not murder; You shall not steal; You shall not bear false witness; Honor your father and mother.” ’ He replied, ‘I have kept all these since my youth.’ When Jesus heard this, he said to him, ‘There is still one thing lacking. Sell all that you own and distribute the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.’ But when he heard this, he became sad; for he was very rich. Jesus looked at him and said, ‘How hard it is for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God! Indeed, 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.’ Those who heard it said, ‘Then who can be saved?’ He replied, ‘What is impossible for mortals is possible for God.’ Then Peter said, ‘Look, we have left our homes and followed you.’ And he said to them, ‘Truly I tell you, there is no one who has left house or wife or brothers or parents or children, for the sake of the kingdom of God, who will not get back very much more in this age, and in the age to come eternal life.’ Luke 18:15-30

As we turn from ordinary time to the season of Advent, we are welcomed to this turning by the reminder to welcome the children and to be childlike. The disciples tried to keep the babies and small children away from Jesus for some reason that is not clear. Maybe this encounter happened in a fancy place among fancy people. It's clear wealth and power were present. Children are

 exuberant, messy and exhausting. They bring joy and love wherever they go. And children are messy, honest and curious. We are invited today, in these changing and unpredictable times to turn to Jesus as a child, living with joy and love despite the challenging places we find ourselves.

Gracious Creator, source of all blessing

you gather us in your arms and bless us

you see through our pride and personas

and embrace the tender little child within.

We delight in our station, wealth and power

thinking the love of society is the best prize

yet you know all honor fades like flowers

and only your love is constant and eternal.

Help us to set aside our egos and attitudes

help us to turn to our neighbors with compassion

make us your children again in this season

and help us to embrace the world with your love. Amen.

Last Sunday After Pentecost -Christ the King

Pilate entered the headquarters again, summoned Jesus, and asked him, “Are you the King of the Jews?” Jesus answered, “Do you ask this on your own, or did others tell you about me?” Pilate replied, “I am not a Jew, am I? Your own nation and the chief priests have handed you over to me. What have you done?” Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not from this world. If my kingdom were from this world, my followers would be fighting to keep me from being handed over to the Jews. But as it is, my kingdom is not from here.” Pilate asked him, “So you are a king?” Jesus answered, “You say that I am a king. For this I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice.” John 18:33-37

We live in a democratic country which threw off the control of kings and monarchs many generations ago. We declared that all are created equal, yet we have failed to live that way. When we talk about Christ the King, we are not talking about a monarch like the ones we rejected. Jesus was born to this role, but it has always been a role of loving service. Our king Jesus does not discriminate, intimidate, castigate or abuse anyone or any part of creation. That is what we human do and loving and serving is what we fail to do. Yet no matter our failures, our Savior forgives and renews us, lifting us up and sending us out to serve.

Wondrous Creator, who sent your only son

to live with us and to teach love to everyone

who offered his life for all in every generation

and who seeks us out in our deep darkness.

Lord Jesus, come rule in our hearts with your love.

As the season turn, and the world grows cold

we hide in our comfortable places and home

we surround ourselves with people like us

forgetting his call to love and serve all people.

Lord Jesus, come rule in our hearts with your love.

You teach us to seek your face in every age

and promise to be with us in our humble places

so help us see your face in every stranger

and give you homage as we serve others.

Lord Jesus, come rule in our hearts with your love.

Lord, you suffered so we might live joyfully

help us to share your love and joy here and now.

Lord Jesus, come rule in our hearts with your love.

Make us ready to shelter those who suffer

and comfort the weary and those who mourn.

Lord Jesus, come rule in our hearts with your love.

For you are Christ the King, the lord of love

and you shower us with abundance and mercy. 

Lord Jesus, come rule in our hearts with your love. Amen.

Do Not Lose Heart

Then Jesus told them a parable about their need to pray always and not to lose heart. He said, ‘In a certain city there was a judge who neither feared God nor had respect for people. In that city there was a widow who kept coming to him and saying, “Grant me justice against my opponent.” For a while he refused; but later he said to himself, “Though I have no fear of God and no respect for anyone, yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will grant her justice, so that she may not wear me out by continually coming.” ’ And the Lord said, ‘Listen to what the unjust judge says. And will not God grant justice to his chosen ones who cry to him day and night? Will he delay long in helping them? I tell you, he will quickly grant justice to them. And yet, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?’ Luke 18:1-8

We humans get overwhelmed and ache to give up when life overwhelms us. Although Jesus had harsh words for the religious leaders who take advantage of the poor and the lowly, he always encourages those who are struggling and at their wit's end. He tells the story of a lazy and corrupt judge who is pestered endlessly by a widow seeking justice. He didn't want to help her but he did to silence her. Our God, the author of all life and the source of love, is more than a corrupt and lazy judge. The Lord will not hold back in helping those who cry out. We who are beaten down, exhausted and afraid are invited today to persist in prayer, persist in doing good and caring for the hurting among us. 

Loving Creator, who showers us with love

whose justice rolls down like spring rains

whose heart is on fire for the poor and week

you do not delay when we are suffering.

Depression and fears overwhelm us here

we often find little justice and compassion 

we lash out believing we have been abandoned

when you are drawing close and answering us.

Help us. Lord, to persist in prayer and service

let us never give up on loving and kindness

give us your strength to rise up every morning

trusting you to bring us more love and healing here. Amen.

Seek His Face

Give thanks to the Lord and call upon his Name; 

make known his deeds among the peoples. 

 Sing to him, sing praises to him, 

and speak of all his marvelous works.

 Glory in his holy Name; let the hearts

 of those who seek the Lord rejoice. 

 Search for the Lord and his strength; 

continually seek his face. 

 Remember the marvels he has done, 

his wonders and the judgments of his mouth, 

 O offspring of Abraham his servant, 

O children of Jacob his chosen. 

 He is the Lord our God; his judgments

 prevail in all the world. 

 He has always been mindful of his covenant, the promise he made for a thousand generations: Psalm 105:1-8

We find ourselves in perilous times and don't know what to do. We humans like our routines and our traditions. We can feel overwhelmed by change and transitions. Even the ones we planned and were expecting overwhelm us. And we struggle to find sure footing and safety in these times. The good news for us today is that when we find ourselves overwhelmed and shaken to our core, we need only to seek out Jesus and our Creator. The ancient promises of love, faithfulness and joy has never failed. Seek the one who is the author of all love and abundance today. Whether work, or personal, when our lives are shattered and in tatters, seek his face. Seek the one who is love incarnate, who promises to bring new life in the midst of this broken world.

Faithful Creator, who walked with the ancestors,

your love is real among us in these times

you have shown your love in all generations

and will not let us down in the days ahead.

We walk around like those who are dead

we stumble in the midst of sudden changes

we cry out loud and feel abandoned

yet you still have more life for us all.

Help us to sing your praises in the dark

help us to seek you when we cannot sleep

give us your strength in times of our weakness

and help us see you love blossoming today. Amen.

Gratitude

On the way to Jerusalem Jesus was going through the region between Samaria and Galilee. As he entered a village, ten lepers approached him. Keeping their distance, they called out, saying, ‘Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!’ When he saw them, he said to them, ‘Go and show yourselves to the priests.’ And as they went, they were made clean. Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice. He prostrated himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him. And he was a Samaritan. Then Jesus asked, ‘Were not ten made clean? But the other nine, where are they? Was none of them found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?’ Then he said to him, ‘Get up and go on your way; your faith has made you well.’ Luke 17:11-19

Only one out of ten returned and thanked Jesus. The incarnate Creator, who walked this earth as we do, healed them all, whether they were grateful or not. The one who did was a Samaritan, an outsider and not considered among the faithful. The others may have been overwhelmed by the shock and newness of disease-free skin and a mended body. We will never know their motivation. Yet we will always remember the one lone Samaritan who came back to be ever so grateful. We often forget that gratitude is a sign of faith, faith deepening as we rejoice in the blessings we have been given, even when we are raw and anxious as we seem to be these days.

 

Loving Creator, source of all blessings

you have placed us in the midst of bounty

shower us with love and community

so that we can blossom and thrive here.

Our hearts are on the ground and breaking

there is so much sickness and pain here

we feel like nothing good is coming our way

and we are on our own to find new pastures.

Help us to abide in your love by being grateful

let your praise and thanksgiving be on our lips

may our hearts not give rage and anger a home

and instead be vessels of love and gratitude always. 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. ‘Who among you would say to your slave who has just come in from ploughing or tending sheep in the field, “Come here at once and take your place at the table”? Would you not rather say to him, “Prepare supper for me, put on your apron and serve me while I eat and drink; later you may eat and drink”? Do you thank the slave for doing what was commanded? So you also, when you have done all that you were ordered to do, say, “We are worthless slaves; we have done only what we ought to have done!” ’ Luke 17:1-10

Some of the Gospel readings during these last days before Advent seem to bring a harshness and anger from Jesus and therefore from God. I have learned, with all texts, to read for the subtexts and the hidden, interpersonal challenges. I imagine, living with these rowdy and dense disciples was a challenge even for Jesus. Like you and me, we find ourselves in communities of people we love and who drive us crazy. We all stumble, get jealous, act out and blame others. Jesus invites us to recognize our stumblings and our sins, admit them, and work to mend relationships. Harboring anger, self-righteous indignation and the like, destroys the love of God. We are all here to serve, one another and the world.

Wondrous Creator, you know our hearts

you live with us in our joys and failures

you see the beauty in every one of us

and you call us to serve each other and you.

We fall and blame others for our failure

we refuse to seek forgiveness or forgive

we would rather be right than be free

we would rather isolate ourselves that repair.

Give us your posture of serving and forgiving

may our actions always reflect your love

may we reach out a hand to those stumbling

and seek your forgiveness at all times. Amen.

Have Mercy on Me

‘There was a rich man who was dressed in purple and fine linen and who feasted sumptuously every day. And at his gate lay a poor man named Lazarus, covered with sores, who longed to satisfy his hunger with what fell from the rich man’s table; even the dogs would come and lick his sores. The poor man died and was carried away by the angels to be with Abraham. The rich man also died and was buried. In Hades, where he was being tormented, he looked up and saw Abraham far away with Lazarus by his side. He called out, “Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am in agony in these flames.” But Abraham said, “Child, remember that during your lifetime you received your good things, and Lazarus in like manner evil things; but now he is comforted here, and you are in agony. Besides all this, between you and us a great chasm has been fixed, so that those who might want to pass from here to you cannot do so, and no one can cross from there to us.” He said, “Then, father, I beg you to send him to my father’s house— for I have five brothers—that he may warn them, so that they will not also come into this place of torment.” Abraham replied, “They have Moses and the prophets; they should listen to them.” He said, “No, father Abraham; but if someone goes to them from the dead, they will repent.” He said to him, “If they do not listen to Moses and the prophets, neither will they be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.” ’ Luke 16:19-31

We humans are often distracted by the challenges of our lives and get caught up in the routines and comforts we have. We often fail to see the needs around us, and when we do we avoid them as if the needs of others threaten our existence. Jesus tells the story of Lazarus and the rich man to remind us all to look around, to see and respond to the needs right before us. We know the name of the suffering beggar. We do not know the name of the rich man. We are invited to use our time on earth to do more than build security and comfort. We are put here for love alone. We are loved by our Creator and are given tools, gifts and abundance so we might share God's love with those around us.

Gracious Creator, you love us from our beginnings

you lived among us to make your love incarnate

you sacrificed everything so that we might live

and gave us your love to share freely with the world.

We refuse to see the pain and suffering around us

choosing to judge the poor as failures and lazy

we who have been given so much often hoard it

and wonder why we experience so little joy.

Lord Jesus, help us to see the Lazarus here

may we share more than scraps but our whole selves

offering our share of your love to the suffering

so we might know you joy and love here among us. Amen.

Settling Accounts

Then Jesus said to the disciples, ‘There was a rich man who had a manager, and charges were brought to him that this man was squandering his property. So he summoned him and said to him, “What is this that I hear about you? Give me an account of your management, because you cannot be my manager any longer.” Then the manager said to himself, “What will I do, now that my master is taking the position away from me? I am not strong enough to dig, and I am ashamed to beg. I have decided what to do so that, when I am dismissed as manager, people may welcome me into their homes.” So, summoning his master’s debtors one by one, he asked the first, “How much do you owe my master?” He answered, “A hundred jugs of olive oil.” He said to him, “Take your bill, sit down quickly, and make it fifty.” Then he asked another, “And how much do you owe?” He replied, “A hundred containers of wheat.” He said to him, “Take your bill and make it eighty.” And his master commended the dishonest manager because he had acted shrewdly; for the children of this age are more shrewd in dealing with their own generation than are the children of light. And I tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of dishonest wealth so that when it is gone, they may welcome you into the eternal homes. Luke 16:1-9

This Gospel reading is one that challenges me for many reasons. I'm not comfortable with the idea or reality of dishonest. Yet we live in a world where manipulation and dishonesty are very prominent, and we are invited today to find ways to love and work with those we might even consider scoundrels. We sometimes shun and criticize the billionaires as tyrants and dishonest. Yet we are called to the dark places to bring Christ's love. We are called to care for the ones who know only how to steal and corrupt. Christian life is messy and so complicated and it has always been.

Gracious Creator, you teach us in every season

how to dwell in the present and survive the worst

you send us consolation and deep strength now

and promise us brighter times to come very soon.

We have become hardened and very worried

we think the future is bleak and incredibly bad

we imagine running away from the very present

yet you have breathed your spirit on us all.

Help us to be those who love beyond measure

who love beyond boundaries and politics

may we understand that all those we encounter

are in need of your love and presence, here and now. Amen.

Prodigals

Now all the tax-collectors and sinners were coming near to listen to him. And the Pharisees and the scribes were grumbling and saying, ‘This fellow welcomes sinners and eats with them.’ Then Jesus said, ‘There was a man who had two sons. The younger of them said to his father, “Father, give me the share of the property that will belong to me.” So he divided his property between them. A few days later the younger son gathered all he had and travelled to a distant country, and there he squandered his property in dissolute living. When he had spent everything, a severe famine took place throughout that country, and he began to be in need. So he went and hired himself out to one of the citizens of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed the pigs. He would gladly have filled himself with the pods that the pigs were eating; and no one gave him anything. But when he came to himself he said, “How many of my father’s hired hands have bread enough and to spare, but here I am dying of hunger! I will get up and go to my father, and I will say to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son; treat me like one of your hired hands.’ ” So he set off and went to his father. But while he was still far off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion; he ran and put his arms around him and kissed him. Then the son said to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son.” But the father said to his slaves, “Quickly, bring out a robe—the best one—and put it on him; put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. And get the fatted calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate; for this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found!” And they began to celebrate. ‘Now his elder son was in the field; and when he came and approached the house, he heard music and dancing. He called one of the slaves and asked what was going on. He replied, “Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fatted calf, because he has got him back safe and sound.” Then he became angry and refused to go in. His father came out and began to plead with him. But he answered his father, “Listen! For all these years I have been working like a slave for you, and I have never disobeyed your command; yet you have never given me even a young goat so that I might celebrate with my friends. But when this son of yours came back, who has devoured your property with prostitutes, you killed the fatted calf for him!” Then the father said to him, “Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. But we had to celebrate and rejoice, because this brother of yours was dead and has come to life; he was lost and has been found.” ’Luke 15:1-2, 11-32

We have all been prodigals at some (or many) point in our lives. And, we have all been the elder child too. The good news of the Gospel today is that the father, the loving parent who represents God in this parable, loves every child, every one of us, more than we can deserve, expect or even imagine. God seeks us out before we arrive, runs to us on the homecoming road, and give us all in great abundance. For those of us who feel like a prodigal, with the shame and guilt for our mistakes, make we make our way home. For those of us who are like the older brother, feeling overworked and neglected, may we to take our anger and frustration to God, trusting that we will be showered with love, forgiveness and hope.

Loving Creator, who is the source of all love

you come running when we are lost and far off

you give us your love and care in great abundance

and never stop loving is no matter our behavior.

We feel anger, betrayal and dangerously hopeless

the world is a despairing place full of great terror

we want to run to foreign places and squander love

yet you call us to come home no matter when or how.

Lord, give us an extra measure of your love today

help us prodigals to return home over and over again

help us elder children to move from anger to celebration

sharing your love in joy in our challenging places. Amen.