A Grain of Wheat

Now among those who went up to worship at the festival were some Greeks. They came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee, and said to him, ‘Sir, we wish to see Jesus.’ Philip went and told Andrew; then Andrew and Philip went and told Jesus. Jesus answered them, ‘The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. Very truly, I tell you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains just a single grain; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. Those who love their life lose it, and those who hate their life in this world will keep it for eternal life. Whoever serves me must follow me, and where I am, there will my servant be also. Whoever serves me, the Father will honor. John 12:20-26

Today the church celebrates the feast of Oscar Romero, the assassinated Archbishop of El Salvador. He once said, "God is not satisfied with appearance, God wants the garments of justice, God wants his Christians dressed in love." He sacrificed his life speaking truth to power, falling down so others might thrive.  He was assassinated as he celebrated communion, lifting the bread from the earth to be blessed. He used his voice, his place in the church, to challenge the corrupt and abusive leadership in his country. He used his all and we are invited today to be the voice of the voiceless, those dressed in love, dressed in justice, offering ourselves do others might live. 

Loving Creator, you show us how to live

through the love and sacrifice offered

by those who were fearless in the speaking

and loving in every aspect of their lives.

We are afraid to speak up to corrupt power

hoping that we too might profit and be rich

when those around us are ground down

and suffering from our lack of compassion.

Make us be willing to speak like Romero

may we bring love and hope to the voiceless

make us able to offer everything we have

so that all of God's children might be fed. Amen.