Abide in Me

The Jews then disputed among themselves, saying, ‘How can this man give us his flesh to eat?’ So Jesus said to them, ‘Very truly, I tell you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you. Those who eat my flesh and drink my blood have eternal life, and I will raise them up on the last day; for my flesh is true food and my blood is true drink. Those who eat my flesh and drink my blood abide in me, and I in them. Just as the living Father sent me, and I live because of the Father, so whoever eats me will live because of me. This is the bread that came down from heaven, not like that which your ancestors ate, and they died. But the one who eats this bread will live for ever.’ He said these things while he was teaching in the synagogue at Capernaum. John 6:52-59

We are people who are connected to media and entertainment all the time. We think we know someone because of their celebrity and influence. Our present world is often shallow because of this and we find ourselves aching for deeper relationships. Jesus is inviting us to abide in him, not visit for a while, but to become deeply connected, interdependent, and the source of our sustenance. In a world of screens, competition and greed, Jesus invites us to the table of his heart and makes us part of his family always.

Loving Creator, bread of all life

you call us to come and abide 

calling us tenderly to your table

setting a place for every outcast.

We run from this loving intimacy 

thinking independence is what we need

until our isolation tears us to pieces

and we run like children to your open arms.

Help us to seek you in every moment

make us joyful in our interdependence

give us the sustenance we need to serve

and give us patience to abide in you always. Amen.

Living Bread

Then the Jews began to complain about him because he said, ‘I am the bread that came down from heaven.’ They were saying, ‘Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How can he now say, “I have come down from heaven”?’ Jesus answered them, ‘Do not complain among yourselves. No one can come to me unless drawn by the Father who sent me; and I will raise that person up on the last day. It is written in the prophets, “And they shall all be taught by God.” Everyone who has heard and learned from the Father comes to me. Not that anyone has seen the Father except the one who is from God; he has seen the Father. Very truly, I tell you, whoever believes has eternal life. I am the bread of life. Your ancestors ate the manna in the wilderness, and they died. This is the bread that comes down from heaven, so that one may eat of it and not die. I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats of this bread will live for ever; and the bread that I will give for the life of the world is my flesh.’ The Jews then disputed among themselves, saying, ‘How can this man give us his flesh to eat?’ So Jesus said to them, ‘Very truly, I tell you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you. Those who eat my flesh and drink my blood have eternal life, and I will raise them up on the last day; John 6:41-54

My mother made bread throughout our growing up years. The smell of yeast bread rising reminds me of her wherever I am. Our coat closet had a heating pipe running behind the walls, and since it was a very warm closet, many loaves of bread could be found rising on the shelves. Coming home in deep winter and taking off one's coat became a moment of great welcome, surrounded with the smell of living bread rising around you. You were home. Jesus, the living bread is our home.

Gracious Creator, you live among us

lighting our nights with stars and moon

watering our fields with snow and rain

and feeding our hearts with your own life.

We take your gifts and world for granted

thinking we are able to conquer all challenges

then quickly we realized we are starving

for your love, healing and transformation.

Fill us again with your love, living bread of life

so we might serve the people who are aching

so we might help fill their hearts and their bodies

with your love which brings us safely home. Amen.

Bread of Heaven

Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures for eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For it is on him that God the Father has set his seal.’ Then they said to him, ‘What must we do to perform the works of God?’ Jesus answered them, ‘This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent.’ So they said to him, ‘What sign are you going to give us then, so that we may see it and believe you? What work are you performing? Our ancestors ate the manna in the wilderness; as it is written, “He gave them bread from heaven to eat.” ’ Then Jesus said to them, ‘Very truly, I tell you, it was not Moses who gave you the bread from heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is that which comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.’ They said to him, ‘Sir, give us this bread always.’ Jesus said to them, ‘I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. But I said to you that you have seen me and yet do not believe. Everything that the Father gives me will come to me, and anyone who comes to me I will never drive away; for I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will, but the will of him who sent me. And this is the will of him who sent me, that I should lose nothing of all that he has given me, but raise it up on the last day. This is indeed the will of my Father, that all who see the Son and believe in him may have eternal life; and I will raise them up on the last day.’ John 6:27-40

Every culture across our globe has a "bread" that is essential and important. Rarely are they fancy breads but rather the staple of life. Another way to think of these breads is as manna, which was sent to the traveling tribes of Israel for sustenance in the desert. The bread of survival. Many folks know about fry bread, a staple in Indigenous communities and found at pow wows across the country.  Fry bread is not ancient, but rather the bread of survival. When most of our peoples were sequestered on reservations and wards of the federal government, fry bread came about because it could be made from the commodities handed out to the communities. White flour, salt, shortening and baking powder were common. These commodities were similar to what was provided in federal prisons. So, fry bread now symbolizes for many of us, that bread of life, the food of survival, the manna that got us through. And  Jesus provides us all with the sustenance that gets us through the deserts, the dark valleys and the places where life is challenged on all sides. That manna from heaven.

Generous Creator, you provide for our needs

sending manna from heaven when we wander

sending angels to help us when we have fallen

and new paths away from hurt and violence.

Too often we mistake people's care for us

when it is only a way to take control of us

yet you are the bread of life that feeds us

and does not control us but sets us free.

Help us live in these sacred and holy places

not seeing them as conquests but as gift

as you are gift and sign from heaven's love

and will bring us all to safe and gentle harbors. Amen.

Gathering Up the Fragments

After this Jesus went to the other side of the Sea of Galilee, also called the Sea of Tiberias. A large crowd kept following him, because they saw the signs that he was doing for the sick. Jesus went up the mountain and sat down there with his disciples. Now the Passover, the festival of the Jews, was near. When he looked up and saw a large crowd coming towards him, Jesus said to Philip, ‘Where are we to buy bread for these people to eat?’ He said this to test him, for he himself knew what he was going to do. Philip answered him, ‘Six months’ wages would not buy enough bread for each of them to get a little.’ One of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, said to him, ‘There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish. But what are they among so many people?’ Jesus said, ‘Make the people sit down.’ Now there was a great deal of grass in the place; so they sat down, about five thousand in all. Then Jesus took the loaves, and when he had given thanks, he distributed them to those who were seated; so also the fish, as much as they wanted. When they were satisfied, he told his disciples, ‘Gather up the fragments left over, so that nothing may be lost.’ So they gathered them up, and from the fragments of the five barley loaves, left by those who had eaten, they filled twelve baskets. When the people saw the sign that he had done, they began to say, ‘This is indeed the prophet who is to come into the world.’ When Jesus realized that they were about to come and take him by force to make him king, he withdrew again to the mountain by himself. John 6:1-15

We are all human, and all humans find themselves fragmented and lost from time to time. We feel there is never enough sometimes, and often what we have is not nearly enough for the need. Most churches and communit6ies are anxious about not having enough for the present and future. Yet into our real anxiety, our very real lived experiences, we are invited to sit down and be fed. We are invited to see that the miracles that not only fed the masses but had an abundance of leftovers, are for us as well. As desperate and anxious we might be, God has more for us and cares about the fragmented, the fractured and the lost.

Abundant Creator, source of abundance

you have showered us with good soil

given us skill and insight to feed ourselves

yet we often find ourselves coming up short.

Our lack often turns us to worry and fear

we think you have wandered far from us

we imagine you do not care for us anymore

while you are making miracles and abundance still.

Help us to take our rest, sit down and be fed

trusting that there will be enough for everyone

knowing that in our lean times you are here

gathering up the crumbs so nothing is lost. Amen.

Nothing On My Own

‘I can do nothing on my own. As I hear, I judge; and my judgement is just, because I seek to do not my own will but the will of him who sent me. ‘If I testify about myself, my testimony is not true. There is another who testifies on my behalf, and I know that his testimony to me is true. You sent messengers to John, and he testified to the truth. Not that I accept such human testimony, but I say these things so that you may be saved. He was a burning and shining lamp, and you were willing to rejoice for a while in his light. But I have a testimony greater than John’s. The works that the Father has given me to complete, the very works that I am doing, testify on my behalf that the Father has sent me. And the Father who sent me has himself testified on my behalf. You have never heard his voice or seen his form, and you do not have his word abiding in you, because you do not believe him whom he has sent. ‘You search the scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that testify on my behalf. Yet you refuse to come to me to have life. I do not accept glory from human beings. But I know that you do not have the love of God in you. I have come in my Father’s name, and you do not accept me; if another comes in his own name, you will accept him. How can you believe when you accept glory from one another and do not seek the glory that comes from the one who alone is God? Do not think that I will accuse you before the Father; your accuser is Moses, on whom you have set your hope. If you believed Moses, you would believe me, for he wrote about me. But if you do not believe what he wrote, how will you believe what I say?’ John 5:30-47

I have been preaching the importance of relationship and trust throughout my ministry. We try new programs every few years and think they will solve our problems. We are called in relationship, called to build and nurture trust, called to be people who serve others. Real problem solving requires time to listen to the people, time to hear the needs, time to feed the hungry and patience in all things. We do nothing on our own, and our ancestors were working and praying together for a day when we would stand up and love the world around us. Loving requires time to be known and to know. Jesus invites us to be in relationship with the source of all and be deeply in relationship with one another.

Generous Creator, you gave us time to grow

and space to stretch out and listen to the elders

people in our lives who loved us into existence

and who pray for us even when we are unaware.

Too often we think we are independent and self made

even when we are surrounded by teachers and friends

we hurt others by not knowing them as you do

and so fail to love them completely as you love them.

Help us to take the time to hear the stories of others

give us your heart so we might share our stories

transform us with your vision of compassion

so the world might see your love active in this time. Amen.

Honoring

J

Jesus said to them, ‘Very truly, I tell you, the Son can do nothing on his own, but only what he sees the Father doing; for whatever the Father does, the Son does likewise. The Father loves the Son and shows him all that he himself is doing; and he will show him greater works than these, so that you will be astonished. Indeed, just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, so also the Son gives life to whomsoever he wishes. The Father judges no one but has given all judgement to the Son, so that all may honor the Son just as they honor the Father. Anyone who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent him. Very truly, I tell you, anyone who hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life, and does not come under judgement, but has passed from death to life. ‘Very truly, I tell you, the hour is coming, and is now here, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live. For just as the Father has life in himself, so he has granted the Son also to have life in himself; and he has given him authority to execute judgement, because he is the Son of Man. Do not be astonished at this; for the hour is coming when all who are in their graves will hear his voice and will come out—those who have done good, to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil, to the resurrection of condemnation. John 5:19-29

We live in a world of winning and losing, when we would be better off living in a world of honor and relationship. When we try to finish first, we forget the joy of responsibility, care and compassion. We hear from Jesus today that everything of value and merit is embedded in relationship. Indigenous traditions have always put a primacy on honor and relationship within tribe, family and as we function in the wide world. We wake up daily considering who we need to honor and care for. And this way of living helps us honor our Creator.

Loving Creator, source of all honor

you love all of creation as a parent

tenderly caring for the weak and worn

honoring the silenced and the outcast.

You sent us a friend to walk with us

who reminded us of your tender love

who called us to live with your kindness

and build bridges for love and peace.

Renew us with your compassionate spirit.

make us those who carry your love

give us the strength to honor all people

and to see the face of family in the stranger. Amen.

Stirring Up the Water

After this there was a festival of the Jews, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. Now in Jerusalem by the Sheep Gate there is a pool, called in Hebrew Beth-zatha, which has five porticoes. In these lay many invalids—blind, lame, and paralyzed. One man was there who had been ill for thirty-eight years. When Jesus saw him lying there and knew that he had been there a long time, he said to him, ‘Do you want to be made well?’ The sick man answered him, ‘Sir, I have no one to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up; and while I am making my way, someone else steps down ahead of me.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Stand up, take your mat and walk.’ At once the man was made well, and he took up his mat and began to walk. Now that day was a sabbath. So the Jews said to the man who had been cured, ‘It is the sabbath; it is not lawful for you to carry your mat.’ But he answered them, ‘The man who made me well said to me, “Take up your mat and walk.” ’ They asked him, ‘Who is the man who said to you, “Take it up and walk”?’ Now the man who had been healed did not know who it was, for Jesus had disappeared in the crowd that was there. Later Jesus found him in the temple and said to him, ‘See, you have been made well! Do not sin any more, so that nothing worse happens to you.’ The man went away and told the Jews that it was Jesus who had made him well. Therefore the Jews started persecuting Jesus, because he was doing such things on the sabbath. But Jesus answered them, ‘My Father is still working, and I also am working.’ For this reason the Jews were seeking all the more to kill him, because he was not only breaking the sabbath, but was also calling God his own Father, thereby making himself equal to God. John 5:1-18

Water is essential for all of life. From the beginning, Indigenous people have believe in the centrality, importance and healing power of water. These days, we have taken the role of water protectors as well in many communities. Too many of our waters are under threat from pollution and gross mismanagement by corporations and governments. Jesus is often found by the water, whether calling disciples, feeding thousands, preaching from boats, or by a city healing pool. He lived to bring people healing, to bring them to the love of their Creator. Many were working to undermine his ministry, yet he healed, fed, and called folks all the same. He stirred up the love of God wherever he went.

Living Creator, source of all living rivers

your love flows across our vast planet

to all people of every nation and tongue

yet some would restrict and dam that flow.

We live in a world where your gifts are sold

as property to be developed rather than

wonders to behold and to be grateful for

your love overflowing in all of your sacred creation.

Help us to see your beauty and love here

give us the strength to renew and protect

all of the people and all of the living waters

so love might flow again around our globe. Amen.

Signs and Wonders

When the two days were over, he went from that place to Galilee (for Jesus himself had testified that a prophet has no honor in the prophet’s own country). When he came to Galilee, the Galileans welcomed him, since they had seen all that he had done in Jerusalem at the festival; for they too had gone to the festival. Then he came again to Cana in Galilee where he had changed the water into wine. Now there was a royal official whose son lay ill in Capernaum. When he heard that Jesus had come from Judea to Galilee, he went and begged him to come down and heal his son, for he was at the point of death. Then Jesus said to him, ‘Unless you see signs and wonders you will not believe.’ The official said to him, ‘Sir, come down before my little boy dies.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Go; your son will live.’ The man believed the word that Jesus spoke to him and started on his way. As he was going down, his slaves met him and told him that his child was alive. So he asked them the hour when he began to recover, and they said to him, ‘Yesterday at one in the afternoon the fever left him.’ The father realized that this was the hour when Jesus had said to him, ‘Your son will live.’ So he himself believed, along with his whole household. Now this was the second sign that Jesus did after coming from Judea to Galilee. John 4:43-54 

Most parents will do anything for their child, especially when they are sick. Except for a few injured and abused souls, a parent will do everything they can. The centurion was setting out of the rules of his role, he reached out to an unknown rabbi for the sake of his child. This was early in the ministry of Jesus, when no one knew his name. Ane yet one father, stepped out, reached out, and his child was made whole. We who know Jesus often fail to step out and reach out. We are reminded today, no matter the distance, God's love for us will go to the ends of the earth and will find us in our broken places.

Gracious Creator, source of new life

we are reluctant to believe and to trust

yet you are always about love and healing

and you seek us out when we are afraid.

Our world is full of medicine and science

so we think signs and wonders ar for fools

we forget that you are the author of all life

and you embrace us all in our pain and sorrow.

Help us to trust in you unfailing love for us

help us to share that eternal love with others

the hurting, the outcasts, and the abused

so love can replace all the broken promises now. Amen.

The Confession of Peter

Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, ‘Rulers of the people and elders, if we are questioned today because of a good deed done to someone who was sick and are asked how this man has been healed, let it be known to all of you, and to all the people of Israel, that this man is standing before you in good health by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead. This Jesus is “the stone that was rejected by you, the builders; it has become the cornerstone.” There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among mortals by which we must be saved.’ Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John and realized that they were uneducated and ordinary men, they were amazed and recognized them as companions of Jesus. Acts 4:8-13

Peter went from a subsistence fishing life to a lifetime of following Jesus. That discipleship caused him pain, imprisonment and torture. This simple fisherman, who made blunders, had a temper, who denied Jesus, was also the one who was called to head to church. He was the rock, the craggy, tough and edgy one on whom our church is founded. Not a polished CEO, nor a sophisticated leader, but rather a flawed human, a person like all of us. He remained flawed throughout his life and yet the light and love of Jesus shines through him to this day.

Perfect Creator, you love us all comppletely

with our flaws, our fears and our denials

you tenderly hold us and lead us beyond

to the place of renewal, healing and miracles.

We humans too often seek the spotlight

you always called the ones who are not ready

you call those who stumble and misspeak

for your love iencompasses our humanity.

Help us to live and serve as Saint Peter

trusting that we are called in our full humanity

knowing that your love will enfold us all

and believing you will give us your spirit now. Amen. 

Given From Heaven

After this Jesus and his disciples went into the Judean countryside, and he spent some time there with them and baptized. John also was baptizing at Aenon near Salim because water was abundant there; and people kept coming and were being baptized— John, of course, had not yet been thrown into prison. Now a discussion about purification arose between John’s disciples and a Jew. They came to John and said to him, ‘Rabbi, the one who was with you across the Jordan, to whom you testified, here he is baptizing, and all are going to him.’ John answered, ‘No one can receive anything except what has been given from heaven. You yourselves are my witnesses that I said, “I am not the Messiah, but I have been sent ahead of him.” He who has the bride is the bridegroom. The friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly at the bridegroom’s voice. For this reason my joy has been fulfilled. He must increase, but I must decrease.’ The one who comes from above is above all; the one who is of the earth belongs to the earth and speaks about earthly things. The one who comes from heaven is above all. He testifies to what he has seen and heard, yet no one accepts his testimony. Whoever has accepted his testimony has certified this, that God is true. He whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for he gives the Spirit without measure. The Father loves the Son and has placed all things in his hands. Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever disobeys the Son will not see life but must endure God’s wrath. John 3:22-36

Every community, tribe and nation (and individuals)) has had to learn that there are other people and other ways of living on this planet. Throughout the Gospels, people who knew exactly how the world was and what God expected had their views challenged. Their views were not changed by violent overthrow, colonialism, wars or occupation, but rather by the incarnate love of God living among them. We humans continue to resist God's radical inclusion. We shut the doors on people coming behind us. My we today turn and see God's love, sent from heaven, embracing those around us and behind us.

Wondrous Creator, you welcome and embrace all

you call us your children in our vast diversity

making room at the table for all sorts of people

and your love and care surrounds all creation.

We humans too often think we have control

yet we are dependent on those faithful before us

we are dependent on your constant love for us

and we are fragile, thickheaded children today.

Help us to look to you for a renewal of hearts

help us to see the stranger and alien as family

make us welcoming to even thiose we might fear

trusting that your love is enough for all. Amen.

God So Loved the World

‘For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life. ‘Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. Those who believe in him are not condemned; but those who do not believe are condemned already, because they have not believed in the name of the only Son of God. And this is the judgement, that the light has come into the world, and people loved darkness rather than light because their deeds were evil. For all who do evil hate the light and do not come to the light, so that their deeds may not be exposed. But those who do what is true come to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that their deeds have been done in God.’ John 3:16-21

The writer of the Gospel of John reflects often about God's love for us. John 3:16 is one of the most famous passages from the New Testament.  Our love for one another and for our families and children is imperfect. Repeatedly John's gospel tells us about perfect love, sacrificial love and the source of love in our Creator. None of us can achieve perfect, sacrificial love in our lives, and yet, our God is our source for unending and unlimited love and healing. God's love is always about restoring the whole world, not one person or one country, but the whole of creation.

Loving Creator, you offer yourself

for the life of this world and creation

the beautiful the tragic and all things

are central to the concern of your heart.

We often feel ignored and overlooked

we think we do not count in your eyes

yet you are always loving and sacrificial

and you seek us out in our darkest moments.

Help us to open our hearts to your love

give us your heart of selfless compassion

make us the bearers of your heart

so we might offer your love to the world. Amen.

Honoring The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Jesus said, “I say to you that listen, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. If anyone strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also; and from anyone who takes away your coat do not withhold even your shirt. Give to everyone who begs from you; and if anyone takes away your goods, do not ask for them again. Do to others as you would have them do to you. “If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. If you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. If you lend to those from whom you hope to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to receive as much again. But love your enemies, do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return. Your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High; for he is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful. Luke 6:27–36

I learned of Dr. King as a small child. My minister father was involved early on in racial justice and inclusion. As he had an interracial marriage and mixed race children, I think he felt moved to be involved. His time as a Navy Chaplain overseas also exposed him to many peoples and cultures and he embraced them all. We regularly attended a neighboring black church and there one time met Dr. King. We memorized parts of his speeches. My Dad and our family watched in horror when the new was broadcast about his assassination. Despite all of the challenges he faced, the hate, the discrimination, the jailing and the abuse, Dr. King never forgot that he was working for a world where his children and his children's children would be "judged by the content of their character." May we humbly following in his footsteps, help make that dream a reality in our time.

Marvelous Creator, you brought us Dr. King

to open our eyes and hearts to all the people

to walk the way of nonviolence and peace

and to show the world your love conquers hate.

We have failed to live up to your dreams

and we have failed to bring Sr. King's dream alive

yet you are still moving with love among us

and will turn hearts and minds to compassion.

Make us the instruments of you peace and love

let us never keep silent in the face of oppression

help us to work for a equality and inclusion

so your love might flourish here once again. Amen.

Water Into Wine

On the third day there was a wedding in Cana of Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. Jesus and his disciples had also been invited to the wedding. When the wine gave out, the mother of Jesus said to him, ‘They have no wine.’ And Jesus said to her, ‘Woman, what concern is that to you and to me? My hour has not yet come.’ His mother said to the servants, ‘Do whatever he tells you.’ Now standing there were six stone water-jars for the Jewish rites of purification, each holding twenty or thirty gallons. Jesus said to them, ‘Fill the jars with water.’ And they filled them up to the brim. He said to them, ‘Now draw some out, and take it to the chief steward.’ So they took it. When the steward tasted the water that had become wine, and did not know where it came from (though the servants who had drawn the water knew), the steward called the bridegroom and said to him, ‘Everyone serves the good wine first, and then the inferior wine after the guests have become drunk. But you have kept the good wine until now.’ Jesus did this, the first of his signs, in Cana of Galilee, and revealed his glory; and his disciples believed in him. After this he went down to Capernaum with his mother, his brothers, and his disciples; and they remained there for a few days. John 2:1-12

(This reading was from Friday Morning Prayer but since I wrote about Nathanael already, this seems like a good passage for today)

I often smile about Mary's influence on Jesus' ministry and how often he is less than appreciate of her support, guidance and sacrifice. We don't know much about his growing up years, except that at 12, when his mother and Joseph were worried to death trying to find him, he replied "I must be about my father's business!" Two weary and worried parents faced what all parents face, arrogance and lack of understanding from their children. I often wonder have different Jesus' ministry and the stories of his ministry might be different. The truth is that his ministry was completely dependent, first on Mary's yes, and then to her encouraging him to do what she knew he was capable of. His response to her, "Woman, what concern is that to you and to me?", demonstrates to me that she alone could encourage the best from him. And, she had to put up with a great deal of sass from her son. She ignored his rudeness and helped arrange his first miracle. The best wine, the first miracle happened because Mary was willing to look beyond her son's humanity to the spirit of God working within him. May we too, look beyond the human foibles of the people we minister with, and encourage the spirit of God working in them.

Gracious Creator, source of life and miracles

you brought your son to earth in human form

and surrounded him with tender loving parents

who responded to his humanity with great faith.

Lord Jesus, Incarnate One, make us your disciples today.

We are broken, frail and lacking in compassion

yet Mary taught you to take great risks for others

love gave you the strength to step out in faith

and nurtured your compassion for the outcast everywhere.

Lord Jesus, Incarnate One, make us your disciples today.

We often fall and we too often disagree

when you have called us to work together

surround us with those who see your spirit

working in these flawed and imperfect beings.

Lord Jesus, Incarnate One, make us your disciples today.

From the beginning of time you bring love

and continue to love us despite our mistakes.

Lord Jesus, Incarnate One, make us your disciples today.

Take these broken spirits, bodies and hearts

and renew us for service in the world you love.

Lord Jesus, Incarnate One, make us your disciples today.

For you are the beginning and end of creation

and you promise to be with us in every season.

Lord Jesus, Incarnate One, make us your disciples today. Amen.

No Deceit

The next day Jesus decided to go to Galilee. He found Philip and said to him, ‘Follow me.’ Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. Philip found Nathanael and said to him, ‘We have found him about whom Moses in the law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus son of Joseph from Nazareth.’ Nathanael said to him, ‘Can anything good come out of Nazareth?’ Philip said to him, ‘Come and see.’ When Jesus saw Nathanael coming towards him, he said of him, ‘Here is truly an Israelite in whom there is no deceit!’ Nathanael asked him, ‘Where did you come to know me?’ Jesus answered, ‘I saw you under the fig tree before Philip called you.’ Nathanael replied, ‘Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!’ Jesus answered, ‘Do you believe because I told you that I saw you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than these.’ And he said to him, ‘Very truly, I tell you, you will see heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of Man.’ John 1:43-51

We don't pay much attention to the folks like Nathanael, yet he was able to speak the truth about Jesus before others. He was not famous or infamous, was not cunning or mocking but instead was a truthful in everything. He was sitting under the fig tree for shade and a snack, wholly being himself when Jesus saw him. And Jesus sees each of us in our most humble and honest selves, without the pretenses and glitter of the world. This loving intimacy made Nathanel move from skepticism to faith. May we be honest and humble in all things so our faith too might be complete.

Blessed Creator you made the fig tree

for food and for rest and for shade

and you find us in the shadowed places

and call us to follow you and love others.

Give us all the heart and soul of Nathanael

make us honest and true in all we do

make us ready to be known in humility

and make us ready to get up and follow you.

Scrub away the paste and shine of the world

and give us your peace so we might be whole

turn us from deceit to deep and full humility

so your love might be the gift we carry always. Amen.

Lamb of God

The next day he saw Jesus coming towards him and declared, ‘Here is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! This is he of whom I said, “After me comes a man who ranks ahead of me because he was before me.” I myself did not know him; but I came baptizing with water for this reason, that he might be revealed to Israel.’ And John testified, ‘I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it remained on him. I myself did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water said to me, “He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain is the one who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.” And I myself have seen and have testified that this is the Son of God.’ The next day John again was standing with two of his disciples, and as he watched Jesus walk by, he exclaimed, ‘Look, here is the Lamb of God!’ The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus. When Jesus turned and saw them following, he said to them, ‘What are you looking for?’ They said to him, ‘Rabbi’ (which translated means Teacher), ‘where are you staying?’ He said to them, ‘Come and see.’ They came and saw where he was staying, and they remained with him that day. It was about four o’clock in the afternoon. One of the two who heard John speak and followed him was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother. He first found his brother Simon and said to him, ‘We have found the Messiah’ (which is translated Anointed). He brought Simon to Jesus, who looked at him and said, ‘You are Simon son of John. You are to be called Cephas’ (which is translated Peter). John 1:29-42

I keep hearing the term immunity because of the office, and that the Lamb of God, who could have declared immunity, and, could have made some miracle happen to avoid sentencing but he did not. e chose to live and eat with the poor, the outcast and the shunned. He chose to humble himself and surround himself with fisherfolk and ordinary working people. The Lamb of God called big mouthed, hot headed disciples like Peter to be part of his ministry. May we who follow the Lamb of God, truly follow by living humbly, never expecting a free pass, and always working with the sick, the friendless and the needy.

Creator, you gave us the Lamb of God

your child to live and walk among us

who knew the frailty of humanity

loving all of creation with great compassion.

Help us to be followers of this Lamb

who lived with the stubborn and weak alike

who ate with the outcasts and sinners

and who offered his life a ransom for all.

Make us your followers, precious Savior

give us new hearts and minds to follow you

into the broken and humble places here

so your love might permeate all of creation. Amen.

Crying Out in the Wilderness

This is the testimony given by John when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, ‘Who are you?’ He confessed and did not deny it, but confessed, ‘I am not the Messiah.’ And they asked him, ‘What then? Are you Elijah?’ He said, ‘I am not.’ ‘Are you the prophet?’ He answered, ‘No.’ Then they said to him, ‘Who are you? Let us have an answer for those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?’ He said, ‘I am the voice of one crying out in the wilderness, “Make straight the way of the Lord” ’, as the prophet Isaiah said. Now they had been sent from the Pharisees. They asked him, ‘Why then are you baptizing if you are neither the Messiah, nor Elijah, nor the prophet?’ John answered them, ‘I baptize with water. Among you stands one whom you do not know, the one who is coming after me; I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandal.’ This took place in Bethany across the Jordan where John was baptizing. John 1:19-28

John is honest, intense and humble as to his role and his purpose. He was born to baptize and make way for his younger cousin. It is hard to imagine how he came to accept his role and live out where God had called him. Both young men must have struggled with their call and their destiny, as we all do. It is only human. And yet John, gifted and brilliant, full of the Spirit, is willing to live out in the wilderness and baptize. His whole ministry was one pf preparation. Indeed, all our ministry is one of preparation, laying the round work so others might encounter the incarnate love of God. John's cries were to herald the love that was to come, despite the fears of some, who thought he was condemning them. Let us cry out so people might prepare anew for the love of our Creator born within them.

Lo0ving Creator, you send heralds and prophets 

so we might open our hearts to your love reborn

you turn desolate, lonely places into living springs

and make the world new again with your love.

Help us to be those who prepare the way of love

make us clear the pathways os peace and renewal

give us the humility to move from the center

so your love might radiate to all the earth's people.

Remove our vanity and replace it with humility

break open our eyes and hearts to know you now

help us to declare your presence among the people

and  welcome those whose hearts are ready fot love. Amen.

In the Beginning was the Word

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being in him was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light. The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world came into being through him; yet the world did not know him. He came to what was his own, and his own people did not accept him. But to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God, who were born, not of blood or of the will of the flesh or of the will of man, but of God. And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth. (John testified to him and cried out, ‘This was he of whom I said, “He who comes after me ranks ahead of me because he was before me.” ’) From his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. The law indeed was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God. It is God the only Son, who is close to the Father’s heart, who has made him known. John 1:1-18

We find ourselves in Epiphany with all of the lights and celebrations of the Christmas season behind us. Like many people, I hate for it to end. At times like these, I remember the story told to me by a friend about her infant son. Born late in the fall, his whole world had been the sights and sounds of Christmas, so when the decorations came down in January, he was inconsolable. His whole world had changed, and he didn't like it. We all know how it feels to have our whole familiar world changed. The opening chapter of the Gospel of John reminds us that no matter how much our world changes, Jesus has been present from the very beginning and is with us though all the changes and beyond. 

Wondrous Creator, who is the source of love

you sustain and renew us in all our changes

you make the world beautiful despite our tears

and walk with us beyond our comfortable places.

Help us to cling to you through all our changes

trusting that your love is strong enough for us

you healing power is moving through us all

and we will find our home again in you.

Set us free from the fear and torment of change

help us embrace the alien and the stranger

knowing that they too are besieged by changes

and need you love as we do in every hour. Amen.

The Feast of the Epiphany - Final Mary Letter

I

The Feast of The Epiphany

In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, asking, ‘Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews? For we observed his star at its rising, and have come to pay him homage.’ When King Herod heard this, he was frightened, and all Jerusalem with him; and calling together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born. They told him, ‘In Bethlehem of Judea; for so it has been written by the prophet: “And you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who is to shepherd my people Israel.” ’ Then Herod secretly called for the wise men and learned from them the exact time when the star had appeared. Then he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, ‘Go and search diligently for the child; and when you have found him, bring me word so that I may also go and pay him homage.’ When they had heard the king, they set out; and there, ahead of them, went the star that they had seen at its rising, until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy. On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure-chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they left for their own country by another road. Matthew 2:1-12

Dear Mama,

This is a hard letter to write but need you to know what has transpired. In the middle of the night, we were awakened by three visitors. They were chiefs of their tribes, robed in luxurious furs and fine garments and they arrived with servants. We were astounded by their arrival and even more so by their story. They had seen a bright star in the heavens and traveled many hundreds of miles to find us. They told us that the star indicated a new chief had been born, a chief who would rule the people in a new way. They had gone to palaces and had been received with interest and welcome but found no new child born. Their visit upset Herod and they say he felt so threatened that he ordered the killing of young children. They were horrified! 

They were thrilled to finally find us! These very regal and learned men bowed down at our feet and showered us with so many gifts! They knew right away they had found the king they were looking for. Joseph and I had hardly wiped the sleep from our eyes when they came into our humble dwelling place. We felt a bit shabby and ashamed of our situation, but they did not care about any of that. We feel like wealthy people now with all the expensive treasures they gave us, treasure fit for a king!

Mama, they also told us that we are not safe and there are soldiers and spies looking for us night and day. This little boy has a price on his head! They were directed to immediately return to Herod and let him know when they found the new king. After leaving the palace, they found out how cruel and jealous Herod was and will not return to him. They told us we should not return home but flee to Egypt for safety. No where in all of Palestine would be safe for us. They told us to arranged passage for the three of us out of the country immediately. I cried when they left, Mama, as all that I want to do is return home to you and Papa. Joseph held me until my tears were past and then shared a dream he had. He dreamed we left for Egypt in the middle of the night. He was stunned when the chiefs told us to go to Egypt and he knew that the Lord was sending us a clear message. So off we go, as soon as the sun sets, into a foreign country to live as refugees.

Oh Mama, I don't know what else to say but that I love you and Papa so very much. We will send word when we are safe. The gifts given will supply our needs for a long time, so we don't have to worry.  Please pray for us and pray I can be brave and strong for the days ahead.

Love,

Mary

Mary Letter Day Thirty

1 Happy are they who 

have not walked in the 

counsel of the wicked, * 

nor lingered in the way 

of sinners, nor sat in the 

seats of the scornful! 

2 Their delight is in the 

law of the Lord, * 

and they meditate on

his law day and night. 

3 They are like trees 

planted by streams of water, 

bearing fruit in due season, 

with leaves that do not wither; * 

everything they do shall prosper.

4 It is not so with the wicked; *

they are like chaff which 

the wind blows away. 

 5 Therefore the wicked shall 

not stand upright 

when judgment comes, * 

nor the sinner in the 

council of the righteous. 

 6 For the Lord knows 

the way of the righteous, * 

but the way of the wicked is doomed. Psalm 1

Dear Auntie,

This city is no place for us. This city, the city of David, the place that so many refer to as royal and holy, seems defiled and violent to me. I know God has brought us here for a purpose, and will bring us home safely, and yet, I am tired of the noise, the stench and the rudeness. Most of the time I stay out of the public with the child. Yesterday, Anna offered to watch the baby so I could go to the market and get to know the city better. It was a disaster. People were pushing and shoving, shop owners yelling, and I could not stand the crowds. Twice my bag of groceries was knocked over, and I almost fell down. Noone even noticed and no one helped me. I came home in tears and Anna hugged me telling me the city takes some getting used to. I don't want to get used to it, I ache to be home in the country, in the hills, where I belong.

We are hoping to be homebound in a few days. Joseph has been trying to devise a good route and a good timetable so that we can make a safe exit. The occupying soldiers are everywhere, and they seem to stop people on a whim. Joseph has been stopped multiple times for no good reason. He has gotten through it all right but her fears the next time he could be arrested, just for being from somewhere other than the city. They think outsiders must be rabble rousers of some kind of terrorist! It's ridiculous, but it is the time and place we live in. I didn't expect saying yes to the Lord would put me and my family in such a mess. Yet, here we are, praying feverishly that a way home will be provided. When there is no human way out of the situation, we have to put our whole trust in God. I have been praying the psalms, as you taught me, and that has provided great comfort. Hopefully our time here is coming to an end. Please pray for our quick and safe return.

Love,

Mary

Mary Letter Day Twenty-Nine

1 You have been gracious

 to your land, O Lord, * 

you have restored the 

good fortune of Jacob. 

2 You have forgiven 

the iniquity of your people * 

and blotted out all their sins. 

3 You have withdrawn 

all your fury * 

and turned yourself from 

your wrathful indignation. 

 4 Restore us then, 

O God our Savior; * 

let your anger depart from us. 

5 Will you be 

displeased with us for ever? * 

will you prolong your

 anger from age to age? 

 6 Will you not give us life again, * 

that your people may rejoice in you?

7 Show us your mercy, O Lord, * 

and grant us your salvation. 

8 I will listen to what the 

Lord God is saying, * 

for he is speaking peace to his 

faithful people and to those 

who turn their hearts to him.

9 Truly, his salvation is very 

near to those who fear him, * 

that his glory may dwell in our land. 

10 Mercy and truth have met together; * 

righteousness and peace 

have kissed each other. 

11 Truth shall spring 

up from the earth, * 

and righteousness shall look

 down from heaven. 

12 The Lord will indeed grant prosperity, * 

and our land will yield its increase. 

 13 Righteousness shall go before him, * 

and peace shall be a pathway for his feet. Psalm 85

Dear Mama,

The weather turned quite cold here and the wind howled all night. I was concerned that the wind would upset the baby. We walked with him outside after dark, as we often do, and found that he loves the wind and the cool air on his face. He kicked his little legs and threw his head back, enjoying every minute. He is a surprise and delight every day. I do wish he would sleep through the night but Anna tells me that won't happen for a while yet. We are trying to rest during the day, when he is sleeping, but that is easier said than done. The city is so noisy and I get anxious when I hear soldiers nearby. We are very careful during daylight hours. I do miss sitting in the sun but know I need to protect this precious little one.

We were hoping to begin our journey home in the next few days, but the military presence is too troublesome right now and the wise women say I am not quite ready to travel.  We think we will try to travel at night when we finally set out, heading towards a cousin's house just a few hours walk from here. I am getting stronger every day. I walk around in this big barn as much as I can, trying to regain my shape after carrying the baby. I walk with him a good deal, even though it is more like pacing and patting, singing to him all the while. I wasn't sure I was ready for motherhood, but I am finding I am getting more comfortable, and remember all the things you taught me. Thank you for being a wonderful mother and showing me how to care for a child. 

Pray we can come home soon. I am so lonesome for home and both of you!

love,

Mary

Mary Letter Day Twenty-Eight

1 Let God arise, and let 

his enemies be scattered; * 

let those who hate him

 flee before him. 

 2 Let them vanish like

 smoke when the wind

 drives it away; * 

as the wax melts at the fire, 

so let the wicked perish

 at the presence of God. 

 3 But let the righteous 

be glad and rejoice 

before God; * 

let them also be 

merry and joyful.

4 Sing to God, sing 

praises to his Name; 

exalt him who rides 

upon the heavens; * 

Yahweh is his Name, 

rejoice before him! 

 5 Father of orphans, 

defender of widows, * 

God in his holy habitation! 

 6 God gives the solitary 

a home and brings forth 

prisoners into freedom; * 

but the rebels 

shall live in dry places. 

 7 O God, when you went 

forth before your people, * 

when you marched 

through the wilderness, 

 8 The earth shook, 

and the skies poured down rain, 

at the presence of God, 

the God of Sinai, * 

at the presence of God, 

the God of Israel. 

9 You sent a gracious rain, 

O God, upon your inheritance; * 

you refreshed the land when it was weary. 

 10 Your people found their home in it; * 

in your goodness, O God, 

you have made provision for the poor. Psalm 68:1-10

Dear Auntie,

We are still here in Bethlehem, in the stable, hiding during daylight hours. I ache to be on the road home, to have this city in my past. I cannot tell Mama and Papa how I feel and what goes on here, I don't want them to worry any more than they do. You understand and for that I am so grateful. The constant noise, the revolting smells of animals and people and the constant sight of armed soldiers has frayed my nerves. I haven't gotten a full night sleep since the baby was born and the lack of sleep is catching up with me. We try hard to keep him from crying as we don't want to draw attention to where we are. It's exhausting, Auntie, and sometimes I can't stop the tears. I am ashamed of my weakness, yet Joseph is understanding and holds me close when I am falling apart.

Our chance for fresh air comes at night. We sit out under the stars and talk quietly. We usually take some aromatic tea with honey, which is sweet and soothing to our dusty throats and irritated noses. The noise of the city subsides at night so we are able to whisper instead of shouting. I don't understand why people want to live like this, but t think the crowding is much worse since the occupation. We often recite prayers, psalms and hymns together to calm our anxious spirits. I know that our Lord is among the poor and the prisoners, and is with us here in this stable. I ache for the wide-open country of home. pray that we can travel soon, for this is hard on all of us. We want to be a family together, living without the fear and danger that surrounds us here.

Much love,

Mary

Mary Letter Day Twenty Seven

1 I will bless the Lord at all times; * 

his praise shall ever be in my mouth. 

 2 I will glory in the Lord; * 

let the humble hear and rejoice. 

 3 Proclaim with me 

the greatness of the Lord; * 

let us exalt his Name together. 

4 I sought the Lord, 

and he answered me * 

and delivered me out of all my terror. 

 5 Look upon him and be radiant, * 

and let not your faces be ashamed. 

 6 I called in my affliction 

and the Lord heard me * 

and saved me from all my troubles. 

 7 The angel of the Lord 

encompasses those who fear him, * 

and he will deliver them. 

 8 Taste and see that the Lord is good; * 

happy are they who trust in him! 

 9 Fear the Lord, you that are his saints, * 

for those who fear him lack nohing. 

10 The young lions lack and suffer hunger, *

 but those who seek the Lord 

lack nothing that is good. 

 11 Come, children, and listen to me; * 

I will teach you the fear of the Lord. 

12 Who among you loves life * 

and desires long life to enjoy prosperity? 

 13 Keep your tongue from evil-speaking * 

and your lips from lying words. 

14 Turn from evil and do good; * 

seek peace and pursue it. Psalm 34:1-14

Dear Mama,

because of the heightened presence of soldiers in Bethlehem, we have decided to stay put a little longer and not risk taking our baby boy on the journey home yet. Although they don't seem to be focused on children as much as they were, there are so many soldiers, it doesn't seem to be a good risk. I am tired from waiting and watching. I know it's the right thing to do. and yet I ache to be home with you and Papa. I know you will love him and enjoy watching him grow. I am so blessed to have Joseph as a husband. He is not like many other men. He loves being with the baby and is so willing to wash and change him. He i such a proud Papa!

The paperwork for Joseph is ready to be picked up, finally! We can travel anytime now, although Anna, our innkeeper want me to be checked out by the wise women here to make sure it is safe for me to travel. She fusses over me like a mother hen! I am truly grateful for her help and generosity but would rather be home with you, Mama. I will never complain about your mothering or fussing ever again. I took for granted your love and care for me, but I never will again. You are one in a million, Mama, and I miss you terribly. Please let Papa know how much I miss him too. I am sure he will love this little boy too! I hope you both can forgive my impatience and misbehaviors. I now know how much you love me and were doing everything for my best. Everything we do now is for the best for little Jesus. He's a good baby but still requires our constant care and attention. I didn't understand all your worrying, but now I do!  Please pray that the military presence lessens, and we can come home soon! I pray for you and for our speedy return.

Love,

Mary

Mary Letter Day Twenty Six

Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. Her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and unwilling to expose her to public disgrace, planned to dismiss her quietly. But just when he had resolved to do this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, ‘Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.’ All this took place to fulfil what had been spoken by the Lord through the prophet: ‘Look, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel’, which means, ‘God is with us.’ When Joseph awoke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him; he took her as his wife, but had no marital relations with her until she had borne a son; and he named him Jesus. Matthew 1:18-25

Dear Auntie,

I have been thinking about all we have been through in the past months. I am remembering my time with you after the angel's visit and your profound and loving support of me. Noone would believe us! And yet, I am so grateful that Joseph did believe the angel, married me and brought me on this journey. I can't imagine what would have happened if we had stayed home. I would have been punished in the village and perhaps even stoned. Here, no one knows us and we can remain safe and anonymous. Joseph has been so wonderful and kind. He took such a big risk taking us on, yet he is cheerful and ever so kind. He loved the little boy Jesus and holds him all the time.

The last week or so we have been in hiding. Soldiers came and slaughtered all the young boys they could find. They never found us because we were hiding and in a stable. But the grief penetrates everything. My heart breaks over and over again to think that a ruler could be so jealous of a tiny boy. And how would they have even known. No shepherd is ever welcomed into the occupier's palace! This land is under siege and now we are broken people surrounded by needless death and loss. I will never understand such greed and selfishness.

We think we will be able to return soon, after things quiet down some. There are still too many soldiers in the streets for us to head home safely. We have heard rumors that they are still looking for small boys! Pray for us, we need it. We know God is with us, and, everyday there is some new challenge we have not forseen.

Much love,

Mary