Going Home

When Jesus had finished these parables, he left that place. He came to his hometown and began to teach the people in their synagogue, so that they were astounded and said, “Where did this man get this wisdom and these deeds of power? Is not this the carpenter’s son? Is not his mother called Mary? And are not his brothers James and Joseph and Simon and Judas? And are not all his sisters with us? Where then did this man get all this?” And they took offense at him. But Jesus said to them, “Prophets are not without honor except in their own country and in their own house.” And he did not do many deeds of power there, because of their unbelief. Matthew 13:53-58

Going Home

Dear God of peace and concord
we watched as home was shattered
the church that was caring for people
became a place of derision and cruelty.

Draw near to our sacred homeland
surround our churches with Your grace
let us be renewed in faith and service
help us not to trivialize Your presence.

We have been sheltering in place
some took to the streets to be heard
we are a people and nation divided
draw us together again by Your love.

Words have failed us as we weep
the holy has been brought low
yet You alone are the heart of all
send us your loving spirit again. Amen.