A Swamped Boat

On that day, when evening had come, he said to them, ‘Let us go across to the other side.’ And leaving the crowd behind, they took him with them in the boat, just as he was. Other boats were with him. A great gale arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that the boat was already being swamped. But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion; and they woke him up and said to him, ‘Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?’ He woke up and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, ‘Peace! Be still!’ Then the wind ceased, and there was a dead calm. He said to them, ‘Why are you afraid? Have you still no faith?’ And they were filled with great awe and said to one another, ‘Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?’ Mark 4:35-41

This past week, my life has been full of storms. The last blog I wrote was for Thursday last, and I ended up in the hospital for four days on Friday with a raging infection. I felt like I was swamped and sinking. I have bailed out many a boat, so am not too afraid of the storms and yet this was a rough one. There were lots of prayers uttered when I could and a big fight to keep fear at bay. You see, our daughter Phoebe got married last night and I was determined to be there. Every nurse, aide, PA, and doctor was advised that I needed to be out on Monday. A child's wedding did seem to motivate folks and my healing process. I did get out on Monday evening, and despite all the challenges, we got to enjoy a lovely wedding, the wonderful couple and a small gathering of friends and family. Did Jesus climb into my boat literally? No. But he was there with me breathing peace, calming my storms and getting me safely to the other shore.

Gracious Creator, author of wind and waves

your beauty is seen in all of your creation

in the waves and wind along the shoreline

and in the faces of those we deeply love.

Too often we think you have abandoned us

because we cannot see you, we assume the worst

yet you breathe peace, stillness and calm on us

and help us to rise up when we are surely sinking.

Help us to have faith today, dearest Savior

for despite all of the storms we face in this life

we do not face them alone, you are at our side

and you always bring us the calm and stillness we need. Amen.

Eating And Healing

One sabbath he was going through the cornfields; and as they made their way his disciples began to pluck heads of grain. The Pharisees said to him, ‘Look, why are they doing what is not lawful on the sabbath?’ And he said to them, ‘Have you never read what David did when he and his companions were hungry and in need of food? He entered the house of God, when Abiathar was high priest, and ate the bread of the Presence, which it is not lawful for any but the priests to eat, and he gave some to his companions.’ Then he said to them, ‘The sabbath was made for humankind, and not humankind for the sabbath; so the Son of Man is lord even of the sabbath.’ Again, he entered the synagogue, and a man was there who had a withered hand. They watched him to see whether he would cure him on the sabbath, so that they might accuse him. And he said to the man who had the withered hand, ‘Come forward.’ Then he said to them, ‘Is it lawful to do good or to do harm on the sabbath, to save life or to kill?’ But they were silent. He looked around at them with anger; he was grieved at their hardness of heart and said to the man, ‘Stretch out your hand.’ He stretched it out, and his hand was restored. The Pharisees went out and immediately conspired with the Herodians against him, how to destroy him. Mark 2:23-3:6

There aren't too many times we see Jesus really angry, but this is one of them. The religious leaders were criticizing Jesus and his disciples for plucking grain on the sabbath. Even more so, the leaders were furious that he dared heal on the sabbath. They couldn't heal anyone, but they judged Jesus harshly and set out to destroy him. We humans are prone to criticize others, often out of jealousy and rarely righteously. He reminded them that the sabbath was made for mankind, so feeding and healing were in God's hope for the sabbath. May we in this time, be aware of our jealousy we might disguise as righteousness, and feed and care for the people, every day.

Tender Creator, you set aside time for our rest

and want the best for all of us in this creation

you are with us in the days that challenge us

and lead us all into the light of your love.

We like to act superior and righteous to others

yet we are frail and flawed being full of fear

we cover our fear with rage and cruel judgment

forgetting that you call us all to serve our neighbors.

Lord, have mercy on our fragile and fearful hearts

and install you love and fearlessness within

help us to feed the hungry and heal the broken places

so the world might see your love in action today. Amen.

New Wineskins

Jesus went out again beside the lake; the whole crowd gathered around him, and he taught them. As he was walking along, he saw Levi son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax booth, and he said to him, ‘Follow me.’ And he got up and followed him. And as he sat at dinner in Levi’s house, many tax-collectors and sinners were also sitting with Jesus and his disciples—for there were many who followed him. When the scribes of the Pharisees saw that he was eating with sinners and tax-collectors, they said to his disciples, ‘Why does he eat with tax-collectors and sinners?’ When Jesus heard this, he said to them, ‘Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick; I have come to call not the righteous but sinners.’ Now John’s disciples and the Pharisees were fasting; and people came and said to him, ‘Why do John’s disciples and the disciples of the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?’ Jesus said to them, ‘The wedding-guests cannot fast while the bridegroom is with them, can they? As long as they have the bridegroom with them, they cannot fast. The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast on that day. ‘No one sews a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old cloak; otherwise, the patch pulls away from it, the new from the old, and a worse tear is made. And no one puts new wine into old wineskins; otherwise, the wine will burst the skins, and the wine is lost, and so are the skins; but one puts new wine into fresh wineskins.’ Mark 2:13-22

Jesus used the image of new wineskins to illustrate, along with other word pictures to help us envision how we deal with different situations and different people. The folks were judging Jesus eating with tax collectors and comparing him with John's way of living which was austere and isolated. We are in danger when we compare, and judge people and situations based our own cultural experiences and biases. When life changes for us, with age and injury, we cannot behave as we once did. We might need to ask for help and ask questions, so we understand. We need to assess our capacity and refit our lives. We are invited today to set aside our judgments and seek the support and insight of community, before we tear new holes in the fabric of our lives.

Gracious Creator, you made our lives everchanging

and despite our desire to keep everything as it was

you know our growth and wisdom come from change

our hearts are opened anew when we face into the new.

We are nostalgic and mostly blind in our memories

we want things the old way despite the danger

of living in the past and judging with no clear eyes

shutting out all the living joy we won't embrace.

Open our eyes to the new changes around us, Lord

and help us to see possibility and new joys coming

help us to set all fears aside so we can truly embrace

your love and healing in brand new wineskins. Amen.

Carrying the Mat

When he returned to Capernaum after some days, it was reported that he was at home. So many gathered around that there was no longer room for them, not even in front of the door; and he was speaking the word to them. Then some people came, bringing to him a paralyzed man, carried by four of them. And when they could not bring him to Jesus because of the crowd, they removed the roof above him; and after having dug through it, they let down the mat on which the paralytic lay. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, ‘Son, your sins are forgiven.’ Now some of the scribes were sitting there, questioning in their hearts, ‘Why does this fellow speak in this way? It is blasphemy! Who can forgive sins but God alone?’ At once Jesus perceived in his spirit that they were discussing these questions among themselves; and he said to them, ‘Why do you raise such questions in your hearts? Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, “Your sins are forgiven”, or to say, “Stand up and take your mat and walk”? But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins’—he said to the paralytic— ‘I say to you, stand up, take your mat and go to your home.’ And he stood up and immediately took the mat and went out before all of them; so that they were all amazed and glorified God, saying, ‘We have never seen anything like this!’ Mark 2:1-12

What a gift to have friends who help in times of need and illness! The friends of the paralyzed man were willing to do anything and everything to find healing for their friend. They not only carried the mat but made sure he saw Jesus by breaking through the roof. Jesus and these men also disregarded the religious leaders' criticism and judgement. The poor man, lying on the mat wanted only to be healed. The love of his friends brought him to Jesus. And Jesus healed him. May we be carriers of the mat, willing to break through barriers and criticism so others may receive healing.

Gracious Creator, source of all healing

you put your love in the hearts of all people

giving us the courage to stand up to bullies

and to break through all human barriers.

We are often too afraid to stand up to criticism

scared to be those who tear down walls for others

fearing that we will be punished and shamed

worrying about ourselves and not our neighbors.

Give us the courage today to carry the mats

making room in this crowded world for all

finding ways to bring the hurting to healing

and fearless in the face of ridicule and walls. Amen.

Feast of Samson Occom

As soon as they left the synagogue, they entered the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. Now Simon’s mother-in-law was in bed with a fever, and they told him about her at once. He came and took her by the hand and lifted her up. Then the fever left her, and she began to serve them. That evening, at sunset, they brought to him all who were sick or possessed with demons. And the whole city was gathered around the door. And he cured many who were sick with various diseases, and cast out many demons; and he would not permit the demons to speak, because they knew him. In the morning, while it was still very dark, he got up and went out to a deserted place, and there he prayed. And Simon and his companions hunted for him. When they found him, they said to him, ‘Everyone is searching for you.’ He answered, ‘Let us go on to the neighboring towns, so that I may proclaim the message there also; for that is what I came out to do.’ And he went throughout Galilee, proclaiming the message in their synagogues and casting out demons. A leper came to him begging him, and kneeling he said to him, ‘If you choose, you can make me clean.’ Moved with pity, Jesus stretched out his hand and touched him, and said to him, ‘I do choose. Be made clean!’ Immediately the leprosy left him, and he was made clean. After sternly warning him he sent him away at once, saying to him, ‘See that you say nothing to anyone; but go, show yourself to the priest, and offer for your cleansing what Moses commanded, as a testimony to them.’ But he went out and began to proclaim it freely, and to spread the word, so that Jesus could no longer go into a town openly, but stayed out in the country; and people came to him from every quarter. Mark 1:29-45

Today we celebrate Samson Occum, Mohegan, and Presbyterian minister. He lived from 1723 to 1792, interesting and turbulent times in this land. He was highly educated and worked tirelessly, preaching and serving many tribes and helping support his teacher Eleazar Wheelock, who had founded an Indian charity school in Lebanon, Connecticut. He traveled across Britian to raise money for Wheelock, who was founding a college for Native people. When he returned, Wheelock had moved away from Mohegan, Connecticut to New Hampshire and stopped caring for Occom's family. Wheelock took the money Occom had raised and founded Dartmouth. Despite such a betrayal, Occom continued his ministry and worked with many tribes in the Northeast. He was faithful despite countless betrayals. May we be faithful, despite betrayals and hurts in these turbulent times.

" I wou’d not have Come over like a fool as I did, Without any Countenance from our Board, but I am Will Still to be a fool for Christ Sake -- This Eleviate[s] my Heart amidst all my Burdens, and Balances all my Sorrows at Times, or enables me to bear my Trials, that I am in the way of my Duty, and the Lord uses me in any Shape to promote his Kingdom in the World…" Occom's letter from the UK to Wheelock

Loving Creator, you put your spirit in all hearts

a myriad of faithful has served you so well

despite the cruelty of racism and deep ignorance

you gave Samson Occom strength and courage.

We tend to give up in times of deep betrayal

aching to hide away within secured walls

yet you renewed his spirit and gave him great hope

in a time when his people were under attack.

Help us to be more like Samson Occom

may we study and abide in your great love

living beyond betrayals and cruel slanders

to share your love with all we meet today. Amen.

and 

Sunday, July 13th, 2025 - Proper 10

Just then a lawyer stood up to test Jesus. "Teacher," he said, "what must I do to inherit eternal life?" He said to him, "What is written in the law? What do you read there?" He answered, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself." And he said to him, "You have given the right answer; do this, and you will live." But wanting to justify himself, he asked Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?" Jesus replied, "A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell into the hands of robbers, who stripped him, beat him, and went away, leaving him half dead. Now by chance a priest was going down that road; and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. So likewise, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan while traveling came near him; and when he saw him, he was moved with pity. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, having poured oil and wine on them. Then he put him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. The next day he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said, `Take care of him; and when I come back, I will repay you whatever more you spend.' Which of these three, do you think, was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of the robbers?" He said, "The one who showed him mercy." Jesus said to him, "Go and do likewise." Luke 10:25-37

We live in a time when too many folks have been declared as enemies, outcasts and illegal. In Jesus' time, Samaritans were the "other", the outcast and enemy. The good, religious people pass the man by, for fear maybe, or not wanting to get involved. It is likewise in these times. It is always time to show mercy; it is always the time to see everyone as our neighbors. Yes, we live in times of conflict and great fear. Yet, the times that Jesus lived in were no less fraught and scary. Their homeland was occupied by a foreign government. The religious leaders judged everyone's behavior harshly. Jesus loved and healed people despite all of that. We are invited to be kind and loving, bringing mercy to those who no one will stop for, who others are afraid of, and who in their difference are cast aside.

                                        A Litany for Sunday July 13th, 2025

Wondrous Creator, you give us your peace

so we might spread peace and mercy here

while we live on this sacred and fragile planet.

Lord Jesus, empower us so we can go and do likewise.

We have turned former friends into enemies

for they look, speak and pray differently

those you see no difference among people.

Lord Jesus, empower us so we can go and do likewise.

The times are full of cruelty and judgment

yet you know we humans can do more than hate

we can love our neighbor and change our world.

Lord Jesus, empower us so we can go and do likewise.

Sometimes we are overwhelmed by our fears

help us to shake off the fear and care for others.

Lord Jesus, empower us so we can go and do likewise.

We try to hide behind our gates and our walls

but you see the need and call us to respond today.

Lord Jesus, empower us so we can go and do likewise.

Make us your people again, Lord, as we venture out

carrying your love, your mercy and your justice.

Lord Jesus, empower us so we can go and do likewise. Amen.

Prepare the Way

The beginning of the good news of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. As it is written in the prophet Isaiah, ‘See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way; the voice of one crying out in the wilderness: “Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight” ’, John the baptizer appeared in the wilderness, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. And people from the whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem were going out to him, and were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. Now John was clothed with camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey. He proclaimed, ‘The one who is more powerful than I is coming after me; I am not worthy to stoop down and untie the thong of his sandals. I have baptized you with water; but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.’ In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. And just as he was coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens torn apart and the Spirit descending like a dove on him. And a voice came from heaven, ‘You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.’ And the Spirit immediately drove him out into the wilderness. He was in the wilderness for forty days, tempted by Satan; and he was with the wild beasts; and the angels waited on him. Mark 1:1-13

Years ago, I was asked to help prepare for an historic service to take place at Jamestown in 1997. Indigenous people from all over our church, in preparation for the 400th anniversary of the landing and settlement at Jamestown, gathered to call the church to a new way of Native ministries. Instead of mission to and for, we would focus on a ministry of Native peoples by the church remembering the past, repenting for the past and reconciling for the future. I went out to visit Chief Webster Custalow, bringing tobacco and other gifts, to ask his permission to hold this service on the traditional lands of the Mattaponi and to invite him to participate. I sat with him for hours as he regaled me with stories about his life. He was well into his eighties then. Preparation requires time to listen, to open up to new ways of understanding, and doing the hard work of making space for the surprisingly new.

Gracious Creator, you send us to prepare the way

putting your love and wonder in our hearts

giving us the strength to forge new relationships

and empowering us to carry your good news.

Often, we humans want the way prepared for us

we do not want the hard work and the challenge

wo like the familiar and the comfortable things

yet you call us to discomfort that paves the way for love.

Help us to get up and prepare your way today

let our fears and restrains fall away so love is here

make us take the small steps that can change everything

and baptize us again in your Holy name for service. Amen.

Peace Be with You

While they were talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them and said to them, ‘Peace be with you.’ They were startled and terrified, and thought that they were seeing a ghost. He said to them, ‘Why are you frightened, and why do doubts arise in your hearts? Look at my hands and my feet; see that it is I myself. Touch me and see; for a ghost does not have flesh and bones as you see that I have.’ And when he had said this, he showed them his hands and his feet. While in their joy they were disbelieving and still wondering, he said to them, ‘Have you anything here to eat?’ They gave him a piece of broiled fish, and he took it and ate in their presence. Then he said to them, ‘These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you—that everything written about me in the law of Moses, the prophets, and the psalms must be fulfilled.’ Then he opened their minds to understand the scriptures, and he said to them, ‘Thus it is written, that the Messiah is to suffer and to rise from the dead on the third day, and that repentance and forgiveness of sins is to be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. And see, I am sending upon you what my Father promised; so stay here in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.’ Then he led them out as far as Bethany, and, lifting up his hands, he blessed them. While he was blessing them, he withdrew from them and was carried up into heaven. And they worshipped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy; and they were continually in the temple blessing God. Luke 24:36-53

When Jesus offered peace, the disciples were terrified and thought they were seeing a ghost. From this distance, it would be easy to dismiss their fears, yet they lived in a climate of fear. They were in a locked room trying to protect themselves from arrest. They were enemies of the occupying government. They were enemies of the religious leadership. They had every right to be afraid. Although some saw Jesus on the road, the whole group hadn't, and they dismissed the women as being hysterical. Only when he ate in their presence, did they see Jesus for who he really was. He reminded them of his promise and blessed them. We find ourselves in scary times, when good people are being rounded up and greed rules the land. It is easy for us in our fear and anger, to miss seeing Jesus, to miss the promises and the blessings. May we remind ourselves of his promises and be agents of his blessing.

Loving Savior, you suffered so we might live

you know the trials of those arrested and in prison

you understand the life of those falsely accused

and you bring blessings despite horrid human behavior.

Our time is one of distrust, greed and slander

we hear our leaders call good people horrible things

so may are unsafe because of their skin color

their language and orientation make them suspect.

Let us leave our locked rooms and safe havens

so we might receive the blessings of the spirit

give us eyes to see you here in these hard times

so we might share your love with an aching world. Amen.

Breaking Bread

But Peter got up and ran to the tomb; stooping and looking in, he saw the linen cloths by themselves; then he went home, amazed at what had happened. Now on that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, and talking with each other about all these things that had happened. While they were talking and discussing, Jesus himself came near and went with them, but their eyes were kept from recognizing him. And he said to them, ‘What are you discussing with each other while you walk along?’ They stood still, looking sad. Then one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answered him, ‘Are you the only stranger in Jerusalem who does not know the things that have taken place there in these days?’ He asked them, ‘What things?’ They replied, ‘The things about Jesus of Nazareth, who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, and how our chief priests and leaders handed him over to be condemned to death and crucified him. But we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since these things took place. Moreover, some women of our group astounded us. They were at the tomb early this morning, and when they did not find his body there, they came back and told us that they had indeed seen a vision of angels who said that he was alive. Some of those who were with us went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said; but they did not see him.’ Then he said to them, ‘Oh, how foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have declared! Was it not necessary that the Messiah should suffer these things and then enter into his glory?’ Then beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted to them the things about himself in all the scriptures. As they came near the village to which they were going, he walked ahead as if he were going on. But they urged him strongly, saying, ‘Stay with us, because it is almost evening and the day is now nearly over.’ So he went in to stay with them. When he was at the table with them, he took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them. Then their eyes were opened, and they recognized him; and he vanished from their sight. They said to each other, ‘Were not our hearts burning within us while he was talking to us on the road, while he was opening the scriptures to us?’ That same hour they got up and returned to Jerusalem; and they found the eleven and their companions gathered together. They were saying, ‘The Lord has risen indeed, and he has appeared to Simon!’ Then they told what had happened on the road, and how he had been made known to them in the breaking of the bread. Luke 24:12-35

The disciples on the road to Emmaus encountered a man they did not know. They poured their hearts out to him, sharing the miraculous and impossible news that their friend and teacher was alive. They told all of this to the living Jesus without recognizing him. Not until he ate with them, did they know him. And it is true, for all of us, that we don't really know someone until we sit at table with them. They were so wrapped up in their own pain, their own stories, their own anxiety, that they didn't see him. We are invited today to see Jesus, by willingly sitting at table with strangers. Sharing bread with them just might show us Jesus.

Precious Savior, you brought new life to many 

suffering pain and death for every one of us.

You sat at table with the outcasts and refugees

and loved those who were rejected by society.

We curate our lives so we can feel grand and safe

we hide behind walls of class, race and culture

we bury our fear by acting superior and judging

yet you know us at the table in the breaking of bread.

Make us always ready to invite the stranger

help us make room at our tables for the outcasts

use us to mend the broken circles in this world

and help us to see you at the humblest of tables. Amen.

Disbelief

Then they returned, and prepared spices and ointments. On the sabbath they rested according to the commandment. But on the first day of the week, at early dawn, they came to the tomb, taking the spices that they had prepared. They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they went in, they did not find the body. While they were perplexed about this, suddenly two men in dazzling clothes stood beside them. The women were terrified and bowed their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, ‘Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here, but has risen. Remember how he told you, while he was still in Galilee, that the Son of Man must be handed over to sinners, and be crucified, and on the third day rise again.’ Then they remembered his words, and returning from the tomb, they told all this to the eleven and to all the rest. Now it was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the other women with them who told this to the apostles. But these words seemed to them an idle tale, and they did not believe them. Luke 23:56-24:11

They were weeping as they went to the tomb, carrying the oil and spices for his final burial preparation. Whispering and crying, doing their duty, these women went out of love and duty to their friend's burial site. They were careful since there were guards and soldiers milling around. Imagine how they felt when his body was not there and imagine their terror when the angels appeared. The angels reminded them of Jesus' words, and they ran to tell the disciples the exciting news, only to be told they were making things up and out of their minds. Everyone was doing what they thought right and expected, and they were all wrong. The disciples would believe the women only after their own encounters with the risen Jesus. We live in a world of acceptable lies and half-truths. Yet, we are called to live with hope, live with undeserved joy, live with love despite the world's cruelty. That joy of that first Easter morning is ours to have, day by day, as we believe.

Loving Creator, you show your truth to us

to small children with eyes wide open

to brokenhearted women doing their chores

and to the blind and broken who reach out to you.

We are all skeptics now not believing anyone

we think it is made up or generated by AI

we forget how you love us even here and now

and scream in the night while fears overwhelm.

Help us be like the women at the tomb

who despite their deep pain carried the news

they carried your love and hope again

and called the disciples to seek anew. Amen.

Darkness Over the Land

It was now about noon, and darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon, while the sun’s light failed; and the curtain of the temple was torn in two. Then Jesus, crying with a loud voice, said, ‘Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.’ Having said this, he breathed his last. When the centurion saw what had taken place, he praised God and said, ‘Certainly this man was innocent.’ And when all the crowds who had gathered there for this spectacle saw what had taken place, they returned home, beating their breasts. But all his acquaintances, including the women who had followed him from Galilee, stood at a distance, watching these things. Now there was a good and righteous man named Joseph, who, though a member of the council, had not agreed to their plan and action. He came from the Jewish town of Arimathea, and he was waiting expectantly for the kingdom of God. This man went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. Then he took it down, wrapped it in a linen cloth, and laid it in a rock-hewn tomb where no one had ever been laid. It was the day of Preparation, and the sabbath was beginning. The women who had come with him from Galilee followed, and they saw the tomb and how his body was laid. Then they returned, and prepared spices and ointments. On the sabbath they rested according to the commandment. Luke 23:44-56

In the daily office readings for today, our Gospel tells of the death of Jesus. The sky darkened, the temple curtain was torn in two, and many who witnessed the drama knew the world had changed in their seeing. Like us, they did not know how life would be different, but they just knew it would be. In the midst of the stunned disbelief and panic, Joseph comes and helped the disciples, family, friends and disciples, take care of his body and begin to grieve. We all need folks who can help our stunned confusion when the world darkens and changes around us. Joseph played a small part, it would seem, but changed the world in his doing. He set the stage for a decent burial place, a quiet garden that would be the scene of the resurrection. May we be those, when the day darkens for others, who can help folks in their pain and confusion.

Gracious Creator, source of help in troubled times

you brought Joseph to help the grieving disciples

you sent angels to sing to the frightened shepherds

and you send us help in our hour of greatest need.

Too often, we want to be the star of the show

when you have called us to be helping hands

too often, we are jealous of others and angry

failing to see their deep pain and grave needs.

Help us Lord, to live our daily lives like Joseph

willing to help the hurting and those in darkness

let us be those who see the need and lovingly respond

so we might all see and share the glorious gifts of new life. Amen.

Sunday, July 6th, 2025, Proper Six

                                                        Sunday July 6, 2025

The Lord appointed seventy others and sent them on ahead of him in pairs to every town and place where he himself intended to go. He said to them, "The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore, ask the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest. Go on your way. See, I am sending you out like lambs into the midst of wolves. Carry no purse, no bag, no sandals; and greet no one on the road. Whatever house you enter, first say, `Peace to this house!' And if anyone is there who shares in peace, your peace will rest on that person; but if not, it will return to you. Remain in the same house, eating and drinking whatever they provide, for the laborer deserves to be paid. Do not move about from house to house. Whenever you enter a town and its people welcome you, eat what is set before you; cure the sick who are there, and say to them, `The kingdom of God has come near to you.' But whenever you enter a town and they do not welcome you, go out into its streets and say, `Even the dust of your town that clings to our feet, we wipe off in protest against you. Yet know this: the kingdom of God has come near.' "Whoever listens to you listens to me, and whoever rejects you rejects me, and whoever rejects me rejects the one who sent me." The seventy returned with joy, saying, "Lord, in your name even the demons submit to us!" He said to them, "I watched Satan fall from heaven like a flash of lightning. See, I have given you authority to tread on snakes and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy; and nothing will hurt you. Nevertheless, do not rejoice at this, that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven." Luke 10:1-11, 16-20

Jesus sent out seventy in pairs to share the good news of God's love and peace. They were going out, without provisions, in a time that was very fragile, soldiers and military in the streets in an occupied country. Very few felt safe in these times. Yet they went out, trusting that God's love would protect them and that they could bring healing and peace to the people that accepted them. We often think of only the twelve disciples who were empowered. Here is the story of the rest of us, in times to similar to those, who are called to go out and carry God's love with us to a hurting and frightened world. This is not a story of celebrity but a story of humility, being one with the people most needing God's grace, love and peace. May we too be empowered to carry God's love healing and peace today.

Wondrous Creator, you put your heart in all people

giving us the power to spread peace and healing

equipping us with what we need for our journey.

Lord, help us to labor in your name, carrying your joy and your love.

We are fearful and confused in these times

we forget that others before us were likewise scared

and that they were simple people saying yes to you.

Lord, help us to labor in your name, carrying your joy and your love.

Your disciples often doubted and were afraid as well

yet you walked with them and you walk with us.

Lord, help us to labor in your name, carrying your joy and your love.

We want our ease and comfort but you've called us

to step our beyond the gate and love our neighbors.

Lord, help us to labor in your name, carrying your joy and your love.

We pretend to care about the poor and the needy

yet we often cross the road to the other side in fear.

Lord, help us to labor in your name, carrying your joy and your love.

Take our frightened hearts and make them bold

put our feet on the path of your love and peace.

Lord, help us to labor in your name, carrying your joy and your love.

Lord, you will give us your strength in every breath

help us to embrace our neighbors with your peace today.

Lord, help us to labor in your name, carrying your joy and your love. Amen.

Independence Day

‘You have heard that it was said, “You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.” But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be children of your Father in heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the righteous and on the unrighteous. For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax-collectors do the same? And if you greet only your brothers and sisters, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect. Matthew 5:43-48

My family hosted the bicycle parade in our little town for over forty years. Everyone ended up on our front lawn for refreshments. Neighbors, friends and strangers all gathered together to celebrate. We sometimes had upwards to 500 bicycles riders and their families gathered with us. My Dad was a Navy Chaplain, and we all celebrated with gusto. The commitment to justice, equality and freedom was so very important. Today, I am not sure how to celebrate. I love this nation and this land, but my heart breaks when I see folks mistreated and imprisoned just for wanting a better life. We seem to be hurting our neighbors, seeking our perfection rather than God's. God perfection is found in love, a love that does not seek to destroy perceived enemies but rather loves those who the world hates.

Loving Creator, perfect author of perfect love

you call us to love those who are hard to love

and make a place for the alien and stranger

treating all of creation as our true relations.

We enjoy too much the vilification of enemies

we enjoy distrusting our neighbors and strangers

we forget to love as you have called us to love

and in so doing move far away from your heart.

Help us to return to love on this Independence Day

give us the resolve to accept others as you do

make us humble and always forgiving of difference

as you have loved us all in our vast and wonderful diversity. Amen.

Healing - Second Reflection

And after getting into a boat he crossed the water and came to his own town. And just then some people were carrying a paralyzed man lying on a bed. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, ‘Take heart, son; your sins are forgiven.’ Then some of the scribes said to themselves, ‘This man is blaspheming.’ But Jesus, perceiving their thoughts, said, ‘Why do you think evil in your hearts? For which is easier, to say, “Your sins are forgiven”, or to say, “Stand up and walk”? But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins’—he then said to the paralytic—‘Stand up, take your bed and go to your home.’ And he stood up and went to his home. When the crowds saw it, they were filled with awe, and they glorified God, who had given such authority to human beings. Matthew 9:1-8

                                                            Healing

We humans want to be made whole, and we often want easy resolution to our sickness. Some of us suffer from physical ills that life threatening and recent. Others are caught in a years' long, progressive illness that debilitates everything from our work to our relationships. And some are broken from deep, severe trauma. All of us have need for healing.  There are ads everywhere for "medicines" that will change our lives, from weight loss drugs and hacks to promised life changing equipment and natural formulas. Most of us have learned the hard way, that it is never so simple. We can go broke very easily. And yet, here we have a story of a paralyzed man, carried around on a bed. He had no view of anything save the sky and trees, and had to rely on friends for any movement at all. Jesus saw him, saw his friends and was so very moved. Despite the loud noise and objections of the religious leaders, Jesus declared his sins were forgiven and then instructed him to get up and walk. The man listened to Jesus and that is our work today, to listen to Jesus and participate in our healing. Some may only be able to accept forgiveness, and some of us may be able to carry another's bed. We are all invited by Jesus to join in healing, with faith, hope and loving care for others.

Gracious Creator, giver of life and healing

you live among the suffering and outcast

you see those weeping in their homes

shut away from the beauty of your world.

We often put our faith in all the wrong things

spend money carelessly to make us better

yet you call us to carry each other and believe

that love can cure the brokenness of our world.

Make us full of faith despite the enormous pain

fill us with your hope despite all the darkness

open our hearts to those who can carry us

and help us to see and carry those who need us today. Amen.

Cruelty and Abuse

Then the assembly rose as a body and brought Jesus before Pilate. They began to accuse him, saying, ‘We found this man perverting our nation, forbidding us to pay taxes to the emperor, and saying that he himself is the Messiah, a king.’ Then Pilate asked him, ‘Are you the king of the Jews?’ He answered, ‘You say so.’ Then Pilate said to the chief priests and the crowds, ‘I find no basis for an accusation against this man.’ But they were insistent and said, ‘He stirs up the people by teaching throughout all Judea, from Galilee where he began even to this place.’ When Pilate heard this, he asked whether the man was a Galilean. And when he learned that he was under Herod’s jurisdiction, he sent him off to Herod, who was himself in Jerusalem at that time. When Herod saw Jesus, he was very glad, for he had been wanting to see him for a long time, because he had heard about him and was hoping to see him perform some sign. He questioned him at some length, but Jesus gave him no answer. The chief priests and the scribes stood by, vehemently accusing him. Even Herod with his soldiers treated him with contempt and mocked him; then he put an elegant robe on him, and sent him back to Pilate. That same day Herod and Pilate became friends with each other; before this they had been enemies. Luke 23:1-12

Herod and Pilate were bitter enemies as they vied for power and control. Neither was native to the land they ruled and were treated with all princely honors. But they both wanted more. The need for wealth and power overpowers our human desire for compassion and concern. Two leaders became friends in their joint hate of Jesus, the one who disturbed them and made them examine their own behaviors. They did not want to lose control, and Jesus was a threat to that since he encouraged a place and welcome for all. Jesus wanted all people fed, comforted, healed and free. Now powermongers can't stand that. They need people to behave a certain way and always be loyal to them. We are reminded in these times, to remember who became close in their hate of Jesus' ways, Herod and Pilate. May we always follow Jesus' way of compassion, welcome, healing and freedom.

Lord Jesus, greed and corruption hates you

yet you did not defend the love God gave you

you did not strike them or cast them out

for you loved them despite their wicked ways.

We too can make friends who help us hate

we can define our lives by refusal to love

we can say and do things that seem righteous

and yet you know our hearts all too well.

Help us in this time of cruelty and abuse

to perpetuate love in our words and actions

may God's love break forth in the darkest places

and your light shine through the deepest pain. Amen.

Mocking and Beating

Now the men who were holding Jesus began to mock him and beat him; they also blindfolded him and kept asking him, ‘Prophesy! Who is it that struck you?’ They kept heaping many other insults on him. When day came, the assembly of the elders of the people, both chief priests and scribes, gathered together, and they brought him to their council. They said, ‘If you are the Messiah, tell us.’ He replied, ‘If I tell you, you will not believe; and if I question you, you will not answer. But from now on the Son of Man will be seated at the right hand of the power of God.’ All of them asked, ‘Are you, then, the Son of God?’ He said to them, ‘You say that I am.’ Then they said, ‘What further testimony do we need? We have heard it ourselves from his own lips!’ Luke 22:63-71

Whether they are images from the movies or images from our own life, we can all recall and vividly remember how it felt to be mocked, teased and even beaten. We live in a time when name-calling, mockery and verbal abuse seems to be the norm, and these behaviors always lead to some form of violence. When folks have the need to mock and abuse others, it often shows their own vulnerability, their lack of faith and personal grounding. They need to wound others to feel better. Jesus is at the hands of jailers, men with the least important, least glamorous job at the time. Their lack of true authority gets acted out in their abuse. May we pay attention to our own need to abuse and mock, and take it as a sign to self-examine, pray and draw close to Jesus, who despite how his abuser acted, did not return hate and abuse.

Precious Savior, you know abuse firsthand

you did not return hate for more hate

you forgave the convicted felons on the cross

and love the angriest and hurting among us.

We humans love a good fight to cheer on

pretending to be above the violence here

yet we often answer with crass cruel words

and demean ourselves by demeaning others.

Lord, help us today to examine our hearts

let us name our failings and not blame others

for only your words of love will bring healing

and following you is the only path to life. Amen.

Feed and Tend

When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, ‘Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?’ He said to him, ‘Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Feed my lambs.’ A second time he said to him, ‘Simon son of John, do you love me?’ He said to him, ‘Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Tend my sheep.’ He said to him the third time, ‘Simon son of John, do you love me?’ Peter felt hurt because he said to him the third time, ‘Do you love me?’ And he said to him, ‘Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Feed my sheep. Very truly, I tell you, when you were younger, you used to fasten your own belt and to go wherever you wished. But when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will fasten a belt around you and take you where you do not wish to go.’ (He said this to indicate the kind of death by which he would glorify God.) After this he said to him, ‘Follow me.’ John 21:15-19

Feed and tend my lambs and sheep was Jesus' final instruction to Peter. We don't know why Jesus repeated his question to Peter of "do you love me', nor why Jesus direction is slightly different each time. We can tell, even at this distance in time that Peter was hurt by the repetition, feeling that Jesus was questioning his love and loyalty. I also know, as you do, that Peter could be stubborn and thick headed. I don't think those attributes are what made Jesus repeat himself. To build muscle of any sort, repetition is the only choice. We humans need to hear things over and over before it sinks in and stays. Jesus, in his final moments wanted the disciples all to hear this exchange and act on it. "Your assignment is to be about the caring, feeding and tending the flock, the sheep, those people who surround you," Jesus might have said. This is our assignment too. Care for them, give them what they need to thrive.

Gracious Creator, you tend and you feed us

finding safe harbor for those on water

providing shelter for the workers on land

and surrounding us with verdant fields.

We are often take care of ourselves only

not seeing the neighbor in great need

the lamb caught in the bramble of politics

nor the sheep rounded up like criminals.

Lord, help us to daily tend and feed

even when it is scary and dangerous

even when it feels impossible to do

be with us and give us your courage today. Amen

Sunday, June 29, 2025 - Proper 8

When the days drew near for Jesus to be taken up, he set his face to go to Jerusalem. And he sent messengers ahead of him. On their way they entered a village of the Samaritans to make ready for him; but they did not receive him, because his face was set toward Jerusalem. When his disciples James and John saw it, they said, "Lord, do you want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them?" But he turned and rebuked them. Then they went on to another village. As they were going along the road, someone said to him, "I will follow you wherever you go." And Jesus said to him, "Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head." To another he said, "Follow me." But he said, "Lord, first let me go and bury my father." But Jesus said to him, "Let the dead bury their own dead; but as for you, go and proclaim the kingdom of God." Another said, "I will follow you, Lord; but let me first say farewell to those at my home." Jesus said to him, "No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God." Luke 9:51-62

We all carry hurts and betrayals from our past and it can be helpful to examine where things went wrong. And it can be dangerous if we dwell there, recounting every snub and slight, every firing and dismissal. As Episcopalians we love to say, "we've never done it that way!" We like the familiar, the safe, the things we cling to that give us a sense of grounding. Yet some seasons require us, as it did the followers of Christ, to keep going forward, choosing joy and hope, rather than wallow in the fumes of our past. This is not a season to be nostalgic and rigid, but the season we are called to keep following Jesus, so the world might receive God's love and hope through us.

                                        A Litany for Sunday June 29th, 2025

Loving Creator, source of all joy and hope

you call us in times of world crisis and war

to follow you so the world might be healed.

Precious Savior, guide our feet in your way of love.

You give us new joy every new morning

despite our limitations, pains and sorrow

you lead us beyond the places we are stuck.

Precious Savior, guide our feet in your way of love.

Our world is in turmoil and on high alert

we do not love our neighbors or trust leaders.

Precious Savior, guide our feet in your way of love.

We stumble through our days in panic

and cry out to you in the darkness and pain.

Precious Savior, guide our feet in your way of love.

Yet you are our Creator, the heart of love

and you will implant us with your strength.

Precious Savior, guide our feet in your way of love.

For you have called us and will see us through

for the people here need to know your love.

Precious Savior, guide our feet in your way of love.

Help us not to look back on our sorrow

but follow you to the land of light and love.

Precious Savior, guide our feet in your way of love. Amen.

Supper and Betrayal

When the hour came, he took his place at the table, and the apostles with him. He said to them, ‘I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer; for I tell you, I will not eat it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.’ Then he took a cup, and after giving thanks he said, ‘Take this and divide it among yourselves; for I tell you that from now on I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.’ Then he took a loaf of bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, ‘This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.’ And he did the same with the cup after supper, saying, ‘This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood. But see, the one who betrays me is with me, and his hand is on the table. For the Son of Man is going as it has been determined, but woe to that one by whom he is betrayed!’ Then they began to ask one another which one of them it could be who would do this. Luke 22:14-23

Betrayal is hard for all of us because we trusted that person, authority or system. We know the Gospels tell us that Judas let the devil into his heart, but we really can never know what happened. He was greedy, some say, he was overlooked too often, he was jealous of the others; it could have been a variety of things. We know he controlled the purse, was treasurer for the disciples and the ministry. He might have found a fast way to cover up a mistake he had made. It happens that people get caught up in trying to find solutions to cover up their mistakes and blame others. Whatever happened, the betrayal set off the drama, the passion that would eventually lead to the resurrection. But there would be so much pain, so much hurt and so many denials and agony. We have all found ourselves in these times. My people, the Cherokee were betrayed by our government, even after the Supreme Court had voted in our favor. We were made to walk from our homelands to Oklahoma Indian Territory.  Despite it all, we are held close by our Savior. Yet, we are invited to remember the hidden alleluia, the hope and love that we have in God. The trials are not minor and, we are held in the loving arms of Jesus.

Loving God, you place us in relationships of trust

you surround us with teachers and gentle elders

we put our lives in their hands and trust them

yet too often we find ourselves hurt and betrayed.

We want to blame you for our horrors and troubles

how could you let this happen to me your servant

we pretend that the cross was not so hard for Jesus

and that no one would understand our pain and sorrow.

But you, O Lord, know the hearts of your people

you know how ache for power and ache for money

you come to us, in our sorrow and we weep

and hold us until we are strong enough to love again. Amen.

Preparation

Every day he was teaching in the temple, and at night he would go out and spend the night on the Mount of Olives, as it was called. And all the people would get up early in the morning to listen to him in the temple. Now the festival of Unleavened Bread, which is called the Passover, was near. The chief priests and the scribes were looking for a way to put Jesus to death, for they were afraid of the people. Then Satan entered into Judas called Iscariot, who was one of the twelve; he went away and conferred with the chief priests and officers of the temple police about how he might betray him to them. They were greatly pleased and agreed to give him money. So he consented and began to look for an opportunity to betray him to them when no crowd was present. Then came the day of Unleavened Bread, on which the Passover lamb had to be sacrificed. So Jesus sent Peter and John, saying, ‘Go and prepare the Passover meal for us that we may eat it.’ They asked him, ‘Where do you want us to make preparations for it?’ ‘Listen,’ he said to them, ‘when you have entered the city, a man carrying a jar of water will meet you; follow him into the house he enters and say to the owner of the house, “The teacher asks you, ‘Where is the guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?’ ” He will show you a large room upstairs, already furnished. Make preparations for us there.’ So they went and found everything as he had told them; and they prepared the Passover meal. Luke 21:37-22:13

Religious traditions always seem to involve food, and the preparation for it is often complicated and almost ritualistic. Traditional food preparation has been, most often, done by the women, and there is usually one matriarch in charge. They order their life in order to make sure everything is ready and seek out the best ingredients and take pride in making the best food. So, we find the world a little bit on its head when Jesus sends his disciples to make preparations. I think, they followed his instructions but quickly sought out a matriarch who they could trust. I'm sure there was debate as they followed Jesus' instructions, as to why this place, and why weren't they going to one of their homes. Someone probably felt snubbed. And looking back from the foot of the cross, they may have wondered why they bothered. And yet, we find the love of God, breaking through, through grief and pain, in an occupied and hostile land. God's love, in these war torn, anxious times, is breaking through right now. Pray that we might see and understand.

Wondrous Creator, you prepare a way for us

even when we are caught in the dark of worry

when the world seems to dim and we're lost

you are breaking through with more love and life.

We are often getting our nose out of joint

our plans haven't gone our way and we're angry

we think you have abandoned us and we cry

yet you are always working in our worst storms.

Help us, Lord, to trust your direction and hope

so that we might take one step at a time towards you

so that the world might see love breaking in

and that we might prepare the hearts for new life. Amen.

The Kingdom of God i Near

Then he told them a parable: ‘Look at the fig tree and all the trees; as soon as they sprout leaves you can see for yourselves and know that summer is already near. So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near. Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all things have taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. ‘Be on guard so that your hearts are not weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of this life, and that day does not catch you unexpectedly, like a trap. For it will come upon all who live on the face of the whole earth. Be alert at all times, praying that you may have the strength to escape all these things that will take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.’ Luke 21:29-36

I am writing this on Sunday since I will be traveling tomorrow. Woke up today to the news of the US bombing Iran, without action of Congress. Needless to say, I am worried, as we all might be. I have never figured out why old men need to fight and destroy others, knowing it is young men and women, and the most vulnerable, who will be in harm's way. These are also signs for us to look for the kingdom of God drawing near. God draws near to the fearful and the vulnerable, opening wide their arms and embracing us all who tremble here. May we be on our guard in these times to be faithful, ready to share God's love and promise, in this scary world.

Wondrous Creator, you are in the midst of us

even when bombs drop and people panic

you stretch out your arms in loving embrace

and hold us close when we are terribly afraid.

The old men work at war as if you called for it

yet we know that your goal is always peace

we are shattered by the events in our world

and wonder how we will survive these days.

Help us Lord, to cling to your presence here

let us open our eyes to your signs of love

make us ready to be carriers of peace and freedom

and always seeking you in our darkest times. Amen.

Second Sunday After Pentecost

Second Sunday After Pentecost
June 22, 2025

Jesus and his disciples arrived at the country of the Gerasenes, which is opposite Galilee. As he stepped out on land, a man of the city who had demons met him. For a long time he had worn no clothes, and he did not live in a house but in the tombs. When he saw Jesus, he fell down before him and shouted at the top of his voice, "What have you to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beg you, do not torment me" -- for Jesus had commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man. (For many times it had seized him; he was kept under guard and bound with chains and shackles, but he would break the bonds and be driven by the demon into the wilds.) Jesus then asked him, "What is your name?" He said, "Legion"; for many demons had entered him. They begged him not to order them to go back into the abyss. Now there on the hillside a large herd of swine was feeding; and the demons begged Jesus to let them enter these. So he gave them permission. Then the demons came out of the man and entered the swine, and the herd rushed down the steep bank into the lake and was drowned. When the swineherds saw what had happened, they ran off and told it in the city and in the country. Then people came out to see what had happened, and when they came to Jesus, they found the man from whom the demons had gone sitting at the feet of Jesus, clothed and in his right mind. And they were afraid. Those who had seen it told them how the one who had been possessed by demons had been healed. Then all the people of the surrounding country of the Gerasenes asked Jesus to leave them; for they were seized with great fear. So he got into the boat and returned. The man from whom the demons had gone begged that he might be with him; but Jesus sent him away, saying, "Return to your home, and declare how much God has done for you." So he went away, proclaiming throughout the city how much Jesus had done for him. Luke 8:26-39

"When pigs fly" is a colloquial phrase that I love. When my husband worked in a theatre in Denver, one of the tech crew said that with some frequency. It simply means, never going to happen. We find ourselves hearing Jesus encounter a community that was clear about healing the man with demons. They all had given up on him, yet Jesus saw the need and brought healing to a very traumatic situation. The man had probably given up on himself. We humans often give up on ourselves when our illness is overwhelming and chronic. Yet the impossible became possible and the pigs did fly. May we who have faith, remember this lesson in these challenging times. There are more good outcomes and more healings for us from God. What we call impossible is possible in God.  

                                A Litany for the Second Sunday After Pentecost

Gracious Creator, you never give up on us

your love is healing, grace and freedom

and you are always seeking us our for these.

Lord Jesus, free us from the chains that bind us today.

We are afraid there is nothing more for us

we hide the scars, the worries and the pain

yet you see us and know us well and promise more.

Lord Jesus, free us from the chains that bind us today.

This human world is war torn and contentious

yet you bring us new mornings and new life

you put your spirit upon all flesh in every season.

Lord Jesus, free us from the chains that bind us today.

Despite our deep terrors and despite circumstances

you are comfort and renewal at all times.

Lord Jesus, free us from the chains that bind us today.

When we have totally given up and despair

you free us from the bonds of pain and sorrow.

Lord Jesus, free us from the chains that bind us today.

For you are love incarnate at all times

and you are sending healing to us now.

Lord Jesus, free us from the chains that bind us today. Amen.

I Will Give You Words and Wisdom

When some were speaking about the temple, how it was adorned with beautiful stones and gifts dedicated to God, he said, ‘As for these things that you see, the days will come when not one stone will be left upon another; all will be thrown down.’ They asked him, ‘Teacher, when will this be, and what will be the sign that this is about to take place?’ And he said, ‘Beware that you are not led astray; for many will come in my name and say, “I am he!” and, “The time is near!” Do not go after them. ‘When you hear of wars and insurrections, do not be terrified; for these things must take place first, but the end will not follow immediately.’ Then he said to them, ‘Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom; there will be great earthquakes, and in various places famines and plagues; and there will be dreadful portents and great signs from heaven. ‘But before all this occurs, they will arrest you and persecute you; they will hand you over to synagogues and prisons, and you will be brought before kings and governors because of my name. This will give you an opportunity to testify. So make up your minds not to prepare your defense in advance; for I will give you words and a wisdom that none of your opponents will be able to withstand or contradict. You will be betrayed even by parents and brothers, by relatives and friends; and they will put some of you to death. You will be hated by all because of my name. But not a hair of your head will perish. By your endurance you will gain your souls. Luke 21:5-19

We live in a world divided, where hate and incriminations are all too common. And we follow Jesus, the one who promises we will have the words when we need them, because we have listened quietly to the Spirit's voice. Needless to say, many of us are torn in this time of wars, impending conflict and possible mass destruction. To all of this mess, Jesus calls us to still our hearts and minds, trusting that the Holy Spirit will provide all our needs. And we will know those who are not listening to the heart of God when they spew cruel and vicious words, the words not of the Spirit. May we all have the strength to calm ourselves and listen deeply to the gentle voice of Jesus, speaking to us in our quieted hearts.

Precious Savior, you promise us words

you give us hope in darkest times

and you teach us to dance and sing again

for you are near us every single day.

We want to arm ourselves for battle

we rage and scream at the leadership

thrashing around and planning attacks

forgetting to listen deeply and to pray.

Lord Jesus, give us your power today

so we might settle into listening time

where we seek your guidance in prayer

and still our hearts awaiting your Spirit. Amen.

Juneteenth

Then he said to them, ‘How can they say that the Messiah is David’s son? For David himself says in the book of Psalms, “The Lord said to my Lord, ‘Sit at my right hand, until I make your enemies your footstool.’ ” David thus calls him Lord; so how can he be his son?’ In the hearing of all the people he said to the disciples, ‘Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes, and love to be greeted with respect in the market-places, and to have the best seats in the synagogues and places of honor at banquets. They devour widows’ houses and for the sake of appearance say long prayers. They will receive the greater condemnation.’ He looked up and saw rich people putting their gifts into the treasury; he also saw a poor widow put in two small copper coins. He said, ‘Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all of them; for all of them have contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty has put in all she had to live on.’ Luke 20:41-21:4

Today, as our state and hopefully, our nation, we celebrate Juneteenth, the day when the horror of slavery was finally over in this land. The word did not reach enslaved folks in Texas until June 19th, 1865, and though they were last to hear, they laid the foundation for this celebration of freedom. We all know that this freedom was fragile then, and it remains fragile today, especially for people of color and our immigrant siblings. We live in a country divided, almost as much as it was then. The rich have gotten richer, and the poor are suffering terribly. Some religious leaders have encouraged this divide. May we have the eyes of Jesus, who noticed the poor widow's generosity and honored her for all time. He also criticized, actually condemned, the pompous wealthy, who were never grateful, nor generous. May we always be generous and loving, making room for all and sharing what we have so all may be free.

Wondrous Creator, source of freedom and justice

you call us all to see all people as our relatives

to walk humbly and stand with those suffering

and to be generous and kind in all that we do.

We revel in criticizing those who are different

we enjoy too much feeling superior to others

we shut the doors and build higher walls

yet you never called us to do anything but love.

Help us to see with the eyes of Lord Jesus

who noticed the kind widow in the corner

make love and welcome our only daily work

and bring us all together again so all may be free. Amen.

Healing - Series Part One

At that time Jesus said, ‘I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and the intelligent and have revealed them to infants; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will. All things have been handed over to me by my Father; and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him. ‘Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.’ Matthew 11:25-30

Today, I am taking time away from the readings for Morning Prayer and focusing on healing. I was asked by a dear friend to take on healing, and feel we all need some healing right now, both physical and spiritual. The weight and the burdens piled upon us, both personal and communal, are hard to bear. We are invited to begin our healing journey together, simply by trusting that we are invited to come to Jesus today like tender children aching to be gathered up in loving arms. Jesus, good mother and good father, no matter our lived experiences, opens his arms to all of us, broken by the world, broken in spirit, body broken by pain. This passage from Matthew is one often repeated in church, but can be our private prayer, in every moment, no matter how old we are and no matter the suffering and burdens we bear. We are invited to see the open arms waiting to enfold us, no matter our age, what we have done or our station in life.

                                                A Litany for Healing

Loving Creator, come near to us today

the burdens are too great to bear alone

and you promise to dwell with us and heal us.

Come, Lord Jesus and make a home with me today.

We suffer in body, mind and spirit

the pain is more than I can carry today

help me run to your arms open to me.

Come, Lord Jesus and make a home with me today.

Some days I find myself full of fury

life should not be so hard and painful 

yet you say, come to me all you weary ones.

Come, Lord Jesus and make a home with me today.

I want to cry out in pain and anger

like a small child frustrated and alone

you invite me to come as that small child.

Come, Lord Jesus and make a home with me today.

Jesus, please bring me the healing I need

help me lie in the comfort of your love

and help me to know you are here with me now.

Come, Lord Jesus and make a home with me today. Amen.

The Things that are God's

When the scribes and chief priests realized that he had told this parable against them, they wanted to lay hands on him at that very hour, but they feared the people. So they watched him and sent spies who pretended to be honest, in order to trap him by what he said, so as to hand him over to the jurisdiction and authority of the governor. So they asked him, ‘Teacher, we know that you are right in what you say and teach, and you show deference to no one, but teach the way of God in accordance with truth. Is it lawful for us to pay taxes to the emperor, or not?’ But he perceived their craftiness and said to them, ‘Show me a denarius. Whose head and whose title does it bear?’ They said, ‘The emperor’s.’ He said to them, ‘Then give to the emperor the things that are the emperor’s, and to God the things that are God’s.’ And they were not able in the presence of the people to trap him by what he said; and being amazed by his answer, they became silent. Luke 20:19-26

In this country, our coin and paper money have images of presidents and other honored people. We do not have Caesars, emperors or monarchs to whom we are expected to give our money.  We pay taxes, yes, and the expectation is that we will all pay taxes, as we all participate in a democracy. Yet, we do know some who are wealthy do not share their wealth. Jesus was being tested by the pompous religious leaders, trying to catch him in government insurrection and religious heresy. Jesus knew of their corruption and abusive leadership. We have corrupt and abusive leadership today in our country and in our church. We are invited, friends, to lead by example and truly give to God the things that are God's. Mercy, kindness, justice and compassion are of God, and we give those back to him by sharing with others. Being humble allows us to see the blessings we have received, truly knowing they are from God and not the work of our selfish and pitiful hands. 

Gracious Creator, who made all that is

your face is upon every living thing

your hands touch this beautiful earth

and your arms embrace all of humanity.

We live in a time of deep corruption

where the almighty dollar is crowned king

where we are divided and cruelly separated

yet all that is, belongs all together to you.

Help us return to your holy and loving ways

help us put your justice, kindness and compassion

first and foremost in everything that we do

so the world might know your loving embrace. Amen.