At that very hour some Pharisees came and said to him, ‘Get away from here, for Herod wants to kill you.’ He said to them, ‘Go and tell that fox for me, “Listen, I am casting out demons and performing cures today and tomorrow, and on the third day I finish my work. Yet today, tomorrow, and the next day I must be on my way, because it is impossible for a prophet to be killed away from Jerusalem.” Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! See, your house is left to you. And I tell you, you will not see me until the time comes when you say, “Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.” ’ Luke 13:31-35
The image of Jesus as a mother hen gathering her brood under her wings is one image I adore. This is partially because, as a mother and grandmother, I know that feeling deep in my bones. That desire to protect the young, to keep them from harm whether from the world or self-inflicted is familiar to all parents. That gut-wrenching desire to protect them, no matter their age, is universal. And knowing that Jesus gets it, give me great hope. We do not serve a Savior who is Teflon, without compassion and love, but rather one who has a parent's heart and motivation. May we trust that we are loved beyond measure today and give thanks for those who have loved us as a parent.
Precious Savior, your heart is with the vulnerable and weak
you care for us like the best of parents and grandparents
and you teach us how to love the stranger and alien here.
Too often, we think we are abandoned and forgotten
left alone to wander alone through this harsh and cruel world
forgetting that you are hovering over us with great love.
Help us Lord, to follow your model of deep and abiding love
may we protect the vulnerable, innocent and the lost
because even when we are unaware, you love us completely. Amen.
