Among the People

When they were approaching Jerusalem, at Bethphage and Bethany, near the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two of his disciples and said to them, “Go into the village ahead of you, and immediately as you enter it, you will find tied there a colt that has never been ridden; untie it and bring it. If anyone says to you, ‘Why are you doing this?’ just say this, ‘The Lord needs it and will send it back here immediately.'” They went away and found a colt tied near a door, outside in the street. As they were untying it, some of the bystanders said to them, “What are you doing, untying the colt?” They told them what Jesus had said; and they allowed them to take it. Then they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their cloaks on it; and he sat on it. Many people spread their cloaks on the road, and others spread leafy branches that they had cut in the fields. Then those who went ahead and those who followed were shouting, “Hosanna! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed is the coming kingdom of our ancestor David! Hosanna in the highest heaven!” Then he entered Jerusalem and went into the temple; and when he had looked around at everything, as it was already late, he went out to Bethany with the twelve. Mark 11:1-11 

Today is the feast day of Absalom Jones, the first African American ordained priest in our church, and founded of the African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas in Philadelphia, which still stands today. Saturday was the feast day of the Rt. Rev. Barbara C. Harris, first woman consecrated bishop in the Episcopal Church. Both were always out among the people. Both accomplished much in the face of resentment, prejudice and hate. They did it for the love of God and for the love of God's people. They both suffered greatly and did it with astounding joy. I have had the opportunity to worship in St. Thomas and now have the honor to serve in the diocese which elected +Barbara. May we realize the cost of following Jesus and cry out, as +Barbara always did, "Alleluia, Anyhow!"

The prayer for today are the collects for Blessed Absalom+ and Blessed +Barabara.

Set us free, heavenly Father, from every bond of prejudice and fear; that, honoring the steadfast courage of your servant Absalom Jones, we may show forth in our lives the reconciling love and true freedom of the children of God, which you have given us in your Son our Savior Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Everliving God, in every generation you cause fresh winds to renew, refresh, and refine your people and in your Word summon us to live courageously as Easter people in an often Good Friday world. Defend us in our own day to make no peace with oppression; that boldly following the example of your servant Barbara Clementine Harris, chosen bishop in your church, we may strive not for ease or fame but gladly toil and walk with you all along our pilgrim journey; through Jesus our Savior. Amen