Good Shepherd

‘Very truly, I tell you, anyone who does not enter the sheepfold by the gate but climbs in by another way is a thief and a bandit. The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep hear his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes ahead of them, and the sheep follow him because they know his voice. They will not follow a stranger, but they will run from him because they do not know the voice of strangers.’ Jesus used this figure of speech with them, but they did not understand what he was saying to them. So again Jesus said to them, ‘Very truly, I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep. All who came before me are thieves and bandits; but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the gate. Whoever enters by me will be saved, and will come in and go out and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly. ‘I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. The hired hand, who is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and runs away—and the wolf snatches them and scatters them. The hired hand runs away because a hired hand does not care for the sheep. I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, just as the Father knows me and I know the Father. And I lay down my life for the sheep. I have other sheep that do not belong to this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd. For this reason the Father loves me, because I lay down my life in order to take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it up again. I have received this command from my Father.’ John 10:1-18

To be known and loved is a true gift which many of us take for granted. Yet too many people are overlooked, left alone and lost in this world. Too much of God's creation is abused, destroyed and sold for profit. Many feel silenced and shut off by the powers that be today. Others are targets of anger and bigotry and have no protection. Into the very midst and heart of these anxious and troubling times, Jesus comes to tell us that we belong to him, and we are protected and defended by him. We are not a random collection of misfits but rather the beloved flock of Jesus. May we have hope in the days to come and raise our voices and offer our help to others, since we are all one flock, and we have a sacred shepherd who loves us all.

Mighty Creator, send you holy wind today

to cleanse the earth of tyrants and torturers

to free to imprisoned and bring home deportees

make us your beloved flock and be our shepherd here.

We have let harsh words and cruel gestures pass

we have let judgement and exclusion rule the day

we are all suffering the consequences of hate

and many are cowering alone in great fear.

Help us to stand up and follow you today

let us be counted as your flock and you our shepherd

lead us to the places of need, want and deep fear

so we might carry your love to the scattered flock. Amen.

Lord, I Believe

Jesus heard that they had driven him out, and when he found him, he said, ‘Do you believe in the Son of Man?’ He answered, ‘And who is he, sir? Tell me, so that I may believe in him.’ Jesus said to him, ‘You have seen him, and the one speaking with you is he.’ He said, ‘Lord, I believe.’ And he worshipped him. Jesus said, ‘I came into this world for judgement so that those who do not see may see, and those who do see may become blind.’ Some of the Pharisees near him heard this and said to him, ‘Surely we are not blind, are we?’ Jesus said to them, ‘If you were blind, you would not have sin. But now that you say, “We see”, your sin remains. John 9:35-41

Taking responsibility for one's behavior seems lacking these days. We like to blame others for our vile acts. And we seem to be lacking belief yet gullible to facts we find on social media. We live in a world that does not honors faithfulness but instead we honor the flashy and shallow. Jesus and the man he healed were grilled by the religious leaders who enjoyed controlling faith and truth. The poor healed man and his family were entangled in a theological debate for control which they had no part in. The man just wanted to know who to believe in and Jesus offered himself. We are invited today to accept the simple and complete offer of Jesus, our shelter, healer and our home.

Loving Creator who knows us each by name

you bring healing and light in our darkness

you walk with us unseen in our sorrows

and you call us simply to say, I believe.

We want clear and fast answers to problems

we are impatient, untrusting, unbelieving

yet all our answers are found in you Lord

our ground of being our very home.

Help us, Lord, to live daily believing in you

who was and is willing to sacrifice all for us

you bring healing and light to us even now

and surround us with your eternal arms of love. Amen.

Healed in the Mud

As he walked along, he saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked him, ‘Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?’ Jesus answered, ‘Neither this man nor his parents sinned; he was born blind so that God’s works might be revealed in him. We must work the works of him who sent me while it is day; night is coming when no one can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.’ When he had said this, he spat on the ground and made mud with the saliva and spread the mud on the man’s eyes, saying to him, ‘Go, wash in the pool of Siloam’ (which means Sent). Then he went and washed and came back able to see. The neighbors and those who had seen him before as a beggar began to ask, ‘Is this not the man who used to sit and beg?’ Some were saying, ‘It is he.’ Others were saying, ‘No, but it is someone like him.’ He kept saying, ‘I am the man.’ But they kept asking him, ‘Then how were your eyes opened?’ He answered, ‘The man called Jesus made mud, spread it on my eyes, and said to me, “Go to Siloam and wash.” Then I went and washed and received my sight.’ They said to him, ‘Where is he?’ He said, ‘I do not know.’ They brought to the Pharisees the man who had formerly been blind. Now it was a sabbath day when Jesus made the mud and opened his eyes. Then the Pharisees also began to ask him how he had received his sight. He said to them, ‘He put mud on my eyes. Then I washed, and now I see.’ Some of the Pharisees said, ‘This man is not from God, for he does not observe the sabbath.’ But others said, ‘How can a man who is a sinner perform such signs?’ And they were divided. So they said again to the blind man, ‘What do you say about him? It was your eyes he opened.’ He said, ‘He is a prophet.’ John 9:1-17

It's been raining and it's muddy everywhere. Red mud here in Oklahoma, deep brown in Massachusetts, and some places you can't see the mud for the water. Life is full of mud and mess everywhere we go. And it is this so common substance, the very earth we come from and return to, which Jesus used to heal the man born blind. Our sacred earth our mother earth, is healing and repairing us always, yet we do not choose to care about it. We wash it off as if it is an evil substance. Yet Jesus changed a man's life and his whole community and family with a little mud. Our Savior is one who is with us in the mess and the mud, willing healing and restoration for us all.

Precious Creator, mysterious and wonderful

you plant us on this holy and sacred earth

giving us all good things needed for life

and ask us to be caretaker of our earth and one another.

We refuse your love, and refuse the world's mess

even though that is where you dwell with us

we want simple, clean and pristine dwellings

that shield us from the truth of your presence here.

Help us today to be willing to get deep in the mud

let your love work in us so our eyes might be opened

to the desperate needs of our relatives and neighbors

so that we might be vessels of healing and light today. Amen.

Fifth Sunday in Lent

The Fifth Sunday in Lent
April 6, 2025

Six days before the Passover Jesus came to Bethany, the home of Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. There they gave a dinner for him. Martha served, and Lazarus was one of those at the table with him. Mary took a pound of costly perfume made of pure nard, anointed Jesus' feet, and wiped them with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. But Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples (the one who was about to betray him), said, "Why was this perfume not sold for three hundred denarii and the money given to the poor?" (He said this not because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief; he kept the common purse and used to steal what was put into it.) Jesus said, "Leave her alone. She bought it so that she might keep it for the day of my burial. You always have the poor with you, but you do not always have me." John 12:1-8

In this extraordinary moment in Jesus' ministry, we find him being anointed with expensive perfume. A beautiful smell filled the home, yet Judas objected fiercely and was judgmental and angry. Judgment and self-righteous anger often lead us into deep trouble, as it did for Judas. This tender scene of a very personal gift is disrupted by selfish indignation and jealousy. Too often we are motivated by these instead of being motivated by love. Mary acted out of deep love. Today, I celebrate the 23rd anniversary of my consecration as bishop. Despite all the challenges and changes that have happened over these years, I hold fast to the moments of tender care, the moments when my heart was touched by the love and support of another. So many, now with the ancestors, stood with me in my darkest times. May we who face dark times, remember that offering of kindness and love will get us through, and there are many aching for a small moment of kindness and support.

                                A Litany for the Fifth Sunday of Lent

Wondrous Creator, your love enlivens us

your forgiveness and healing restore us

and your arms enfold the one who are suffering.

Lord Jesus, help us to hold fast to your deep love for us.

We want to act out in our self-righteous anger

we want to complain and judge in our jealousy 

and we refuse to see your arms reaching to hold us.

Lord Jesus, help us to hold fast to your deep love for us.

Although we do not deserve your deep love for us

you shower us with beauty and new hope in season

the signs of your presence are everywhere around.

Lord Jesus, help us to hold fast to your deep love for us.

Lift us from all tempest and fears for our safety

and help us turn to you in every waking hour.

Lord Jesus, help us to hold fast to your deep love for us.

Despite all of our failings and our cruelties

you see us all as your beloved and call us your children.

Lord Jesus, help us to hold fast to your deep love for us.

You breathe with us as we walk this sacred earth

and you welcome us with joy to our eternal home.

Lord Jesus, help us to hold fast to your deep love for us. Amen.

dedicated to the memory of the Rev. Dr. Carol Hampton

Difficult Truth

When many of his disciples heard it, they said, ‘This teaching is difficult; who can accept it?’ But Jesus, being aware that his disciples were complaining about it, said to them, ‘Does this offend you? Then what if you were to see the Son of Man ascending to where he was before? It is the spirit that gives life; the flesh is useless. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life. But among you there are some who do not believe.’ For Jesus knew from the first who were the ones that did not believe, and who was the one that would betray him. And he said, ‘For this reason I have told you that no one can come to me unless it is granted by the Father.’ Because of this many of his disciples turned back and no longer went about with him. So Jesus asked the twelve, ‘Do you also wish to go away?’ Simon Peter answered him, ‘Lord, to whom can we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and know that you are the Holy One of God.’ Jesus answered them, ‘Did I not choose you, the twelve? Yet one of you is a devil.’ He was speaking of Judas son of Simon Iscariot, for he, though one of the twelve, was going to betray him. John 6:60-71

These are discouraging times for many, and it can seem appropriate to give up and walk away. When we have to face difficult and hard truths, we often pretend not to hear, think we can ignore it, we can hide, or just walk away. Many of Jesus' disciples did just that. They were in the presence of the living God, and yet they could not live with difficult teachings and truths. We humans are prone to great love and even greater betrayal and failing. Today we are invited to seek a deeper faith, a deeper trust, a deeper love in these challenging times.

Loving Creator, you know the depths of us

our fickle and divisive hearts and minds

yet you love us completely and stay with us

despite the darkness and challenges within.

We have loved fame and fortune too much

we are wowed by trinkets and shiny stuff

yet are shallow, selfish and unkind often

and forget to care for the least among us.

Help us Lord, to stay with you today

never let us fade away or give up now

you call us to be your heart and hands here

make us your disciples in these hard times. Amen.

Bread of Heaven

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 forever; and the bread that I will give for the life of the world is my flesh.’ John 6:41-51

Among our Indigenous tribes here in the States, one of the most familiar foods, craved and essential to life, is fry bread. Many folks think fry bread is a traditional dish. Actually, it is not. Fry bread is the result of the ingenuity of Native women, who took the bland commodities given by our federal government and made something delicious. Since tribes were dislocated, removed and penned in on reservations, fry bread made the limited diet special. And, for me it is a symbol of our resilience and hope in the face of terrible politics and constancy violence and abuse. Jesus offers us himself, not a commodity but a relationship, one that gives and restores life, even in the worst of times.

Gracious Creator, source of bread and life

you feed us both physically and spiritually

you tend to us like fragile new spring plants

and water us with new life and new hope.

We find ourselves in dangerous times again

when greed for land and dominance reign

when the most vulnerable cower in fear

from the very people that should be caring for them.

Revive us, Lord, with your heavenly food

give us the strength to persist when weary

to serve the needy even when the skies darken

and feed us so we carry your love here and now. Amen.

Bread of Life

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

Shortly after the first of the year, I started baking bread again. A dear friend had given me some sour dough starter some time back, and I have really enjoyed the whole process. The bread, rolls and buns we've made have been so delicious. Even better, the smell of baking bread and the aroma as it comes out of the oven, is nothing short of gloriously heavenly. Bread has been a staple across time and generations. It can often remind us of simpler, safer times. It smells like home and comfort. Jesus tells us he is the bread of life, the one who gives us safety and comfort, the one who is home for us. I imagine we all need a good dose of safety and comfort these days. May we be ready always to turn to Jesus, seeking out the true bread of life.

Gracious Creator, you feed us and comfort us

filling us with good things wrought from earth

protecting us in times of violence and worry

and restoring our hope in these dark times.

We are surrounded by false prophets and rumors

we feel as if we don't know who we can trust

we run from pillar to post seeking comfort

and too often forget to turn our hearts to you.

Precious Jesus, refill our empty hearts today

strengthen us for the challenging days ahead

be our sustenance, our hope and our home

and make us full of love so we might feed others. Amen.

Strong Winds and Rough Seas

When evening came, his disciples went down to the lake, got into a boat, and started across the lake to Capernaum. It was now dark, and Jesus had not yet come to them. The lake became rough because a strong wind was blowing. When they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus walking on the lake and coming near the boat, and they were terrified. But he said to them, ‘It is I; do not be afraid.’ Then they wanted to take him into the boat, and immediately the boat reached the land towards which they were going. The next day the crowd that had stayed on the other side of the lake saw that there had been only one boat there. They also saw that Jesus had not got into the boat with his disciples, but that his disciples had gone away alone. Then some boats from Tiberias came near the place where they had eaten the bread after the Lord had given thanks. So when the crowd saw that neither Jesus nor his disciples were there, they themselves got into the boats and went to Capernaum looking for Jesus. When they found him on the other side of the lake, they said to him, ‘Rabbi, when did you come here?’ Jesus answered them, ‘Very truly, I tell you, you are looking for me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate your fill of the loaves. 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.’ John 6:16-27

I have spent a good deal of my life near the ocean and have often experienced strong winds and rough seas. My Dad had small boats, all second hand and rickety at best. I have experienced my share of rough times on a small boat. I have baled and pumped water and prayed we would get back to shore. My father was well trained and experienced, just as the disciples were. Wind and weather do not care, and the most experienced know when to be afraid. Many of us are facing rough seas and strong winds in other ways and it can feel as if we are sure to perish. Yet Jesus comes to us, calms our fears and brings us to safe harbor again. No matter where we are in our journey, no matter how overwhelmed we are and are sure we are going to drown, Jesus is with us in our storms.

Gracious Creator, you give us wind and water

so birds might fly and fish might swim at home

you give us skills and strength to sail and fly

and we might see the glory and beauty of creation.

The storms of life and swift changes overwhelm us

and all the human advances fall away when fear rises

even the strongest among us can be weak and broken

and the most faithful tremble and fear abandonment.

Free us today from all the fears we hold so close

let us see you coming close in our terrifying storms

give us new strength and new faith for the journey

and make us your disciples who carry your love. Amen.

A Poet's Day

But in fact Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have died. For since death came through a human being, the resurrection of the dead has also come through a human being; for as all die in Adam, so all will be made alive in Christ. But each in his own order: Christ the first fruits, then at his coming those who belong to Christ. Then comes the end, when he hands over the kingdom to God the Father, after he has destroyed every ruler and every authority and power. For he must reign until he has put all his enemies under his feet. The last enemy to be destroyed is death. For ‘God has put all things in subjection under his feet.’ But when it says, ‘All things are put in subjection’, it is plain that this does not include the one who put all things in subjection under him. When all things are subjected to him, then the Son himself will also be subjected to the one who put all things in subjection under him, so that God may be all in all. 1 Corinthians 15:20-28

This last day of March is the fest day of John Donne, poet and Dean of St. Paul's, London. His preaching and poetry were moving and passionate, seeing God in relationships and in earth's remarkable changes. Today is also my last day of employment as Bishop and tomorrow I will be retired (April Fool's day seems somehow appropriate). John Donne has long been part of my life, and the Ecstasy was read at our wedding. I have always been and will be a poet as I will always be a child of God and a bishop of this church. These temporal changes remind us all that the eternal is always breaking through our temporal, messy and temporary times. Our eternal and loving Creator is here among us, unbinding the bound, healing the sick and opening new chapters to the anxious waiting ones.

Wondrous Creator, you planted words of beauty

into the hearts of those who have suffered

so they might show your living love here with us.

We are in times of scary changes and feeling lost

but you provide a compass and a resting place

your heart is our home and destination forever.

Put your love in our hearts so we might speak it

put your compassion in us so we might live it

and help us to see you moving in the darkest times. Amen

Fourth Sunday in Lent

Fourth Sunday in Lent
March 30. 2025

All the tax collectors and sinners were coming near to listen to Jesus. And the Pharisees and the scribes were grumbling and saying, "This fellow welcomes sinners and eats with them." So Jesus told them this parable: "There was a man who had two sons. The younger of them said to his father, 'Father, give me the share of the property that will belong to me.' So he divided his property between them. A few days later the younger son gathered all he had and traveled to a distant country, and there he squandered his property in dissolute living. When he had spent everything, a severe famine took place throughout that country, and he began to be in need. So he went and hired himself out to one of the citizens of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed the pigs. He would gladly have filled himself with the pods that the pigs were eating; and no one gave him anything. But when he came to himself he said, 'How many of my father's hired hands have bread enough and to spare, but here I am dying of hunger! I will get up and go to my father, and I will say to him, "Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son; treat me like one of your hired hands."' So he set off and went to his father. But while he was still far off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion; he ran and put his arms around him and kissed him. Then the son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son.' But the father said to his slaves, 'Quickly, bring out a robe--the best one--and put it on him; put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. And get the fatted calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate; for this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found!' And they began to celebrate. "Now his elder son was in the field; and when he came and approached the house, he heard music and dancing. He called one of the slaves and asked what was going on. He replied, 'Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fatted calf, because he has got him back safe and sound.' Then he became angry and refused to go in. His father came out and began to plead with him. But he answered his father, 'Listen! For all these years I have been working like a slave for you, and I have never disobeyed your command; yet you have never given me even a young goat so that I might celebrate with my friends. But when this son of yours came back, who has devoured your property with prostitutes, you killed the fatted calf for him!' Then the father said to him, 'Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. But we had to celebrate and rejoice, because this brother of yours was dead and has come to life; he was lost and has been found." Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32

Today, we hear the story of what is called the prodigal son. Yet is it really the story on two sons, one prodigal the other faithful and hurting. Most of us has been both of these in our lifetime. We wander off and are welcomed back or we stay around and so all the work and feel underappreciated. Yet we also forget that this a story of God's love, not human love, told to faithful religious leadership. They were criticizing Jesus' company, not willing to admit that they too have been willful, wandered off and got in all sorts of trouble. The phrase, "there but for the grace of God" often goes through my head. We are flawed, selfish, ridiculously jealous people. We are invited today to embrace love which we can nor comprehend or encompass and share it with those who are in desperate need of God's love.

                                        A Litany for the Fourth Sunday in Lent

Wondrous Creator, perfect parent of imperfect children

we are made in your image with free will and we use it

too often to wander off and forget to whom we belong.

Lord Jesus, help us to open our hearts to your eternal love today.

We are willful, flawed, selfish and very judgmental

decrying others' behavior while we are going astray

our hearts are full of deceit, anger and need to control.

Lord Jesus, help us to open our hearts to your eternal love today.

You, Lord, don't care how many times we fall down

you will pick us up as we return and celebrate us

your love is deeper that all the oceans of the earth combined.

Lord Jesus, help us to open our hearts to your eternal love today.

Lift us all from our petty selves so we might love again

remove all the anger and judgment so others might be free.

Lord Jesus, help us to open our hearts to your eternal love today.

For you have promise to run towards us when we call

and settle us again into your loving arms and heavenly home.

Lord Jesus, help us to open our hearts to your eternal love today. Amen.

Hear the Word of God

They answered him, ‘We are descendants of Abraham and have never been slaves to anyone. What do you mean by saying, “You will be made free”?’ Jesus answered them, ‘Very truly, I tell you, everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin. The slave does not have a permanent place in the household; the son has a place there for ever. So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed. I know that you are descendants of Abraham; yet you look for an opportunity to kill me, because there is no place in you for my word. I declare what I have seen in the Father’s presence; as for you, you should do what you have heard from the Father.’ They answered him, ‘Abraham is our father.’ Jesus said to them, ‘If you were Abraham’s children, you would be doing what Abraham did, but now you are trying to kill me, a man who has told you the truth that I heard from God. This is not what Abraham did. You are indeed doing what your father does.’ They said to him, ‘We are not illegitimate children; we have one father, God himself.’ Jesus said to them, ‘If God were your Father, you would love me, for I came from God and now I am here. I did not come on my own, but he sent me. Why do you not understand what I say? It is because you cannot accept my word. You are from your father the devil, and you choose to do your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks according to his own nature, for he is a liar and the father of lies. But because I tell the truth, you do not believe me. Which of you convicts me of sin? If I tell the truth, why do you not believe me? Whoever is from God hears the words of God. The reason you do not hear them is that you are not from God.’ John 8:33-47

We live in a noisy, sensational, media driven world. Truth is manipulated and often covered up. Leadership in many places, from business to legislature and the church often think their own voice is the voice of God. God always invites to self-examination and humility, to love, mercy and justice. Very few leaders are able to admit when they're wrong and take responsibility for their behavior. Too often they shame, humiliate and blame others. That is not the voice of our Creator. We are invited today to listen to the still, small voice which invites us to humility and compassion. Voices of domination and cruelty are not our Creator's words or being.

Loving Creator, you made us in your image

with the capacity to think and reflect 

to amend our behavior and our wrong ways

and to turn daily to your heart of love.

Our environment is full of accusations

leaders pining their problems on innocents

Wealthy blaming the poor for the problems

shaming and abusing the refugee and immigrant.

Lord, help us to turn to your voice only today 

make us listen deeply to your call to respect

make us disciples as we examine our motives

and let your humility and compassion reign. Amen.

The Truth Will Make You Free

Again he said to them, ‘I am going away, and you will search for me, but you will die in your sin. Where I am going, you cannot come.’ Then the Jews said, ‘Is he going to kill himself? Is that what he means by saying, “Where I am going, you cannot come”?’ He said to them, ‘You are from below, I am from above; you are of this world, I am not of this world. I told you that you would die in your sins, for you will die in your sins unless you believe that I am he.’ They said to him, ‘Who are you?’ Jesus said to them, ‘Why do I speak to you at all? I have much to say about you and much to condemn; but the one who sent me is true, and I declare to the world what I have heard from him.’ They did not understand that he was speaking to them about the Father. So Jesus said, ‘When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will realize that I am he, and that I do nothing on my own, but I speak these things as the Father instructed me. And the one who sent me is with me; he has not left me alone, for I always do what is pleasing to him.’ As he was saying these things, many believed in him. Then Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, ‘If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.’ John 8:21-32

Truth is in a bind these days. With the way media can and is manipulated, we can all struggle to find the truth. Lying seems to be a standard way of living and getting ahead these days. The people that tell the truth are often branded as radicals, outsiders and agitators. Well, Jesus was a radical, and outsider and an agitator simply by telling the truth. We like to wallow in our delusions and believe we are right and superior to others, but Jesus tells us the truth about ourselves and loves us completely despite it all. May we strive to be truthtellers and set free, despite the treatment this world might dole out.

Gracious Creator, who loves your creation

no matter how we lie and cheat one another

no matter how we abuse the power given

you love us and invite us to live in the truth.

The privilege of power takes lying for truth

wraps up the grossest sins in glitter and gold

tries to turn the faithful into big hypocrites

and binds up those who dare to expose the truth.

Help us to be truth tellers no matter the consequences

let us make love and truth our daily obligations

so God's love and freedom might flourish again

and the world set free to love again in the open. Amen.

The Annunciation

In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And he came to her and said, ‘Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you.’ But she was much perplexed by his words and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. The angel said to her, ‘Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And now, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you will name him Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his ancestor David. He will reign over the house of Jacob for ever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.’ Mary said to the angel, ‘How can this be, since I am a virgin?’ The angel said to her, ‘The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be holy; he will be called Son of God. And now, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son; and this is the sixth month for her who was said to be barren. For nothing will be impossible with God.’ Then Mary said, ‘Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word.’ Then the angel departed from her. Luke 1:26-38

Today is the feast of the annunciation, when we celebrate the angelic visit to Mary, telling her she was to bear the child of God. Right here, in the deep heart of Lent, in the chilly first days of spring, we are reminded of the beginnings of our faith, and the courage of one very young woman, who would suffer greatly and be misunderstood. She gave her body for the life and healing of the world. In these days when much seems to be falling apart, we remember Mary and her bravery. May we all be a little braver these days, trusting that God is also moving here and now for the life and healing of the world.

Litany for the Annunciation

Gracious Creator, source of all life

you called a vulnerable young woman

to carry the savior and she said yes.

Let it be with us according to your word.

We struggle for dominance and control

refusing to trust in your loving presence

and suffer mightily from loneliness and grief.

Let it be with us according to your word.

You entrusted the Messiah to the least

and you will entrust us with your love

as we open our hearts and live with compassion.

Let it be with us according to your word.

The world is a messy and confusing place

yet your son came to bring peace to us all.

Let it be with us according to your word.

We struggle and forget your love for us

and entrust our faith in flashy false leaders.

Let it be with us according to your word.

You promise to be with us always and forever

help us to turn our hearts again to you now.

Let it be with us according to your word. Amen. 

A Grain of Wheat

Now among those who went up to worship at the festival were some Greeks. They came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee, and said to him, ‘Sir, we wish to see Jesus.’ Philip went and told Andrew; then Andrew and Philip went and told Jesus. Jesus answered them, ‘The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. Very truly, I tell you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains just a single grain; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. Those who love their life lose it, and those who hate their life in this world will keep it for eternal life. Whoever serves me must follow me, and where I am, there will my servant be also. Whoever serves me, the Father will honor. John 12:20-26

Today the church celebrates the feast of Oscar Romero, the assassinated Archbishop of El Salvador. He once said, "God is not satisfied with appearance, God wants the garments of justice, God wants his Christians dressed in love." He sacrificed his life speaking truth to power, falling down so others might thrive.  He was assassinated as he celebrated communion, lifting the bread from the earth to be blessed. He used his voice, his place in the church, to challenge the corrupt and abusive leadership in his country. He used his all and we are invited today to be the voice of the voiceless, those dressed in love, dressed in justice, offering ourselves do others might live. 

Loving Creator, you show us how to live

through the love and sacrifice offered

by those who were fearless in the speaking

and loving in every aspect of their lives.

We are afraid to speak up to corrupt power

hoping that we too might profit and be rich

when those around us are ground down

and suffering from our lack of compassion.

Make us be willing to speak like Romero

may we bring love and hope to the voiceless

make us able to offer everything we have

so that all of God's children might be fed. Amen.

Third Sunday in Lent - March 23, 2025

Third Sunday in Lent 

March 23, 2025

                                                                      

At that very time there were some present who told Jesus about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. He asked them, "Do you think that because these Galileans suffered in this way they were worse sinners than all other Galileans? No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all perish as they did. Or those eighteen who were killed when the tower of Siloam fell on them--do you think that they were worse offenders than all the others living in Jerusalem? No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all perish just as they did." Then he told this parable: "A man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came looking for fruit on it and found none. So he said to the gardener, 'See here! For three years I have come looking for fruit on this fig tree, and still I find none. Cut it down! Why should it be wasting the soil?' He replied, 'Sir, let it alone for one more year, until I dig around it and put manure on it. If it bears fruit next year, well and good; but if not, you can cut it down.'" Luke 13:1-9

This is the time of year when I get very itchy to start planting although I know it is too soon. Instead, I get things prepared, choosing what we might plant this year, getting seeds from my tribe and preparing the beds for the coming plants and seeds. Before you think I am a good gardener, think again. I'm at best enthusiastic, with many fails and mistakes. My grandfather WalkingStick was a great gardener, but I have inherited very little of his skill or knowledge. Yet, every gardener wants their plants to thrive and will do everything possible to bring forth fruit. So, if we imperfect human gardeners are willing to do everything we can, how much more so will God do for us?

Wondrous Creator, you bring life and renewal

to the cold hard frosted grounds of winter

and turn them into bed of nourishment and hope.

Lord, let your love be sown deep in these challenging times.

We see the desolation around us and give up

aching to turn our backs on the world and burn it

wishing we had never even tried to bring new life.

Lord, let your love be sown deep in these challenging times.

You, O Lord of abundance and generous harvest

never give up on the worst sinners and dormant ones

and are always extending your grace to the hopeless.

Lord, let your love be sown deep in these challenging times.

Plant us deep this season and give us the strength

to produce good fruit in harsh and scary times.

Lord, let your love be sown deep in these challenging times.

We are weak and want to hide from the labor

make us strong enough to spread your compassion.

Lord, let your love be sown deep in these challenging times.

Use us to let this world know that love will conquer

for you, O Lord, give us what we need to thrive here. 

Lord, let your love be sown deep in these challenging times. 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

We often think we can stand on our own and we don't need anyone else. Even Jesus, the son of God and Savior of the world knew better. We are products of this very earth, made of dust, and carried by loving parents before we could walk. And as adults we can believe in our total independence and cut ourselves off from family and others we disagree with. In this age, very few adults could survive a even a few days without all the services and appliance other people create and provide. This Lent is an opportunity to renew our gratitude for all who make us able to function and thrive.

Loving Creator, you are always among us

you are within us and surrounding us

we may not see you or acknowledge you

but you give us breath and make heart beat.

We are smug, arrogant and ego driven

we believe that we can conquer our enemies

thinking that they are the cause of our pain

when our separation from you is why we weep.

Help us today Lord to take a careful inventory

make us keenly aware of the countless throng

who have helped us through our darkest days

and your love which will carry us through tomorrow. Amen.

Honor

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

There is a great deal of disrespect for people's culture, identity, language, and lifestyle. When we choose to disrespect one, it effects their whole family and community. Jesus knew how easy it is for people to disrespect others, including himself, rather than honoring the gifts and insights people bring. We are invited today to live honoring the whole of humanity and the whole of creation. 

Gracious Creator, you love and honor us

in our varied and diverse ways of life

in our homes and among our sacred people

in the darkest times and in the hope filled light.

We love to watch the failure of other people

we enjoy gossip and disrespect those who try

when we demean those who work for good

we are dishonoring the love you give us.

Take our pride and arrogance from us

and replace it with honor and respect for all

help us live our days with compassion 

and honor your love by the way we live. Amen.

Take It Up and Walk

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

I have spent more than two years recovering from what began as a ruptured Achilles tendon. Several surgeries, infections and complications, I am still weak and walking with a cane, yet I am getting stronger by the day. I prayed for a miracle and still do, as God is not done with me and has more for me to do. I have learned a great deal in this process. There are all sorts of miracles and my eyes were opened to so many acts of pure love during this time. Jesus goes to the pool called Beth-zatha, a place where only the very sick and dying were. This was the place of last hope and Jesus was there. He healed the man on the Sabbath, because God's love doesn't go by the rules and fashions of people. Healing comes in many varieties, and we experience miracles every day, if we would see them. And Jesus is with us in our places of desperate, last hopes. Take it up and walk today.

Mysterious Creator, your breath is life

your voice a whisper, powerful and holy

your eyes see the pain and suffering here

and send miracles and new life every day.

We sit by the pools of despair and fear

trusting in products and flashy people

we forget to seek you out in our longing

and miss the miracles you set before us.

Let today be the time we open our eyes

let us see the vision of love ahead of us

let us be the miracles other people need

and make us grateful in our daily walk. Amen.

Your Child Will Live

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

It is so very hard to see a child dying, harder still when that child is yours or a member of your family. Every parent I know would give their life for their child, would take their place in the pain and the fear. It is at this desperate, painful place we find a father begging Jesus for the life of his child. This man was very important, yet the nearing death of his son put him on his knees in equal footing with the people on the streets, begging for help. Jesus sends him on his way with hope, and the man carried his hope with him and that hope was confirmed, even before he reached his child. Lov carries us through on the hardest, most painful journeys. 

Gracious Creator, source of love and healing

you carry in your arms on tough journeys

you surround us with angels and comforters

and breathe new life where all was broken.

We tend to blame you when things go wrong

despite our selfish and greedy ways of living

we are always pushing other people down

and not offering a hand to those in need.

Help us dear Lord to see all of your children

let us be ready to beg for them and help them

let us see your heart in every other person

and live always sharing the love you give us. Amen.

Come and See

Just then his disciples came. They were astonished that he was speaking with a woman, but no one said, ‘What do you want?’ or, ‘Why are you speaking with her?’ Then the woman left her water-jar and went back to the city. She said to the people, ‘Come and see a man who told me everything I have ever done! He cannot be the Messiah, can he?’ They left the city and were on their way to him. Meanwhile the disciples were urging him, ‘Rabbi, eat something.’ But he said to them, ‘I have food to eat that you do not know about.’ So the disciples said to one another, ‘Surely no one has brought him something to eat?’ Jesus said to them, ‘My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to complete his work. Do you not say, “Four months more, then comes the harvest”? But I tell you, look around you, and see how the fields are ripe for harvesting. The reaper is already receiving wages and is gathering fruit for eternal life, so that sower and reaper may rejoice together. For here the saying holds true, “One sows and another reaps.” I sent you to reap that for which you did not labor. Others have labored, and you have entered into their labor.’ Many Samaritans from that city believed in him because of the woman’s testimony, ‘He told me everything I have ever done.’ So when the Samaritans came to him, they asked him to stay with them; and he stayed there for two days. And many more believed because of his word. They said to the woman, ‘It is no longer because of what you said that we believe, for we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this is truly the Saviour of the world.’ John 4:27-42 

Today we celebrate the feast of St. Patrick, who brought the Gospel to the Irish people as a missionary and former slave. He lived with and loved the people who he could have hated. He honored their scared sites and their way of life. He went with love and listened to the stories of the people. He went where he did not belong, and did not conquer but loved instead. Just as Jesus did. To the astonishment of the disciples, he talked with a Samaritan woman, taboo because she was a woman and an enemy. Instead he loved her and all the people in her community who welcomed him to stay with them. This is the model of how we are to live. Forgiveness and love in place of every hate and judgement.

Loving Creator, you love all creation

you made a diverse and beautiful world

supplying us with plenteous food and water

and deep shade from the harshness of the sun.

We try to conquer and control all these gifts

acting as if we are the owners of the globe

we plot against those we judge as enemies

and think ourselves righteous and holy.

Lord, help us to replace the hate and judgement

with forgiveness and love to all your people

let us make room for you by welcoming others

and help us listen to the strangers among us. Amen.

Second Sunday in Lent

Second Sunday in Lent March 16, 2025

                                            

Some Pharisees came and said to Jesus, "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 outside of 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 heart of our God is always compassion and care. We humans have fickle hearts, running to one and then to another, with no care or consideration. We hear Jesus seeing himself in the maternal role, aching to gather us and protects us, as we run away in pursuit of passing fancies. God's love is constant, unfailing and always offered. Jesus aches for us, weeps for us and for Jerusalems everywhere, that say and pray one thing and do another. May we, in this season of Lent, return to the loving arms of our Creator, listening to the heartbeat and learning compassion again.

A Litany for the Second Sunday of Lent

Loving Creator, you brought us to life

you shelter and protect us from storms

and gather us in when we run far away.

Lord Jesus, be our shelter in the storms of life.

We love to wander aimlessly and stray

far from the safety of your tender embrace

because we think we know better than you.

Lord Jesus, be our shelter in the storms of life.

We are foolish humans prone to stumbling

and you are always loving and tender

make our hearts again like yours today.

Lord Jesus, be our shelter in the storms of life.

Our land and our world are full of troubles

you are our source and our very home.

Lord Jesus, be our shelter in the storms of life.

The storms have overtaken many of us

yet you promise to guide our feet home again.

Lord Jesus, be our shelter in the storms of life.

Help us to turn our hearts to you today

and make your love and tenderness our only guide.

Lord Jesus, be our shelter in the storms of life. Amen.

Increase and Decrease

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

As I prepare for retirement and a new chapter of my life, I am puzzled sometimes by the mixed feelings I have had. The idea of rest and having time is wonderful. Stepping out of the role I have had for 24 years is causing me confusion. I won't miss the responsibility, the long hours and the constant scrutiny yet I will miss the people. I know I was called to this and stepping back, decreasing the role, if a bit of a shock I didn't expect. I hear John today answering his disciples that he has to decrease so the focus can be on Jesus. It must have been hard to say that and harder even to step back. And yet, when we step back our God is able to do new things we never could have expected.

Wondrous God, you created four seasons

times of growth, harvest and resting

your made us live in the four directions

so all could see your manifold works.

We ache to be in the limelight and center stage

we always want to be seen and heard

as humans we adore the attention and honors

and we forget who made it all possible.

Help us, dear Lord, to step back today

making room so that Jesus can shine through

making space so new holy servants can shine

so your love is visible in our broken world. 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

I have heard and said the phrase, "God so loved the world" so often that it has become almost too familiar. John 3:16 was often posted at ball games across the country. Yet, we often don't listen to it and more often don't live it. Our Creator loved us so deeply, ached for our healing and restoration, ached for us to be one family, one people that he sent Jesus, the ultimate sacrifice for everyone's faults. We are so very and deeply and eternally loved. What do we do when we know we are completely loved? We give ourselves to others, we forgive others, believe in others and live in hope and joy every day. May these words deeply resonate in our aching hearts today. God so loved all the world, all the people, all creatures and creation, and every generation yet unborn that Christ came so we might live and thrive, forgiven and set free.

Loving Creator whose heart is for us all

you gave us your child so we might live

he suffered for all so we might be healed

and forgiven in these troubled times.

We can be suspect of your care for us

thinking we know better what the world needs

yet you have put your love all around us

and there is nothing that can separate us from you.

Help us Lord to accept your complete love

living that love daily by serving others

working for the healing of your beloved creation

and the mending of all broken relationships. Amen.

Born of Water and Spirit

When he was in Jerusalem during the Passover festival, many believed in his name because they saw the signs that he was doing. But Jesus on his part would not entrust himself to them, because he knew all people and needed no one to testify about anyone; for he himself knew what was in everyone. Now there was a Pharisee named Nicodemus, a leader of the Jews. He came to Jesus by night and said to him, ‘Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God; for no one can do these signs that you do apart from the presence of God.’ Jesus answered him, ‘Very truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God without being born from above.’ Nicodemus said to him, ‘How can anyone be born after having grown old? Can one enter a second time into the mother’s womb and be born?’ Jesus answered, ‘Very truly, I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit. What is born of the flesh is flesh, and what is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not be astonished that I said to you, “You must be born from above.” The wind blows where it chooses, and you hear the sound of it, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So, it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.’ Nicodemus said to him, ‘How can these things be?’ Jesus answered him, ‘Are you a teacher of Israel, and yet you do not understand these things? ‘Very truly, I tell you, we speak of what we know and testify to what we have seen; yet you do not receive our testimony. If I have told you about earthly things and you do not believe, how can you believe if I tell you about heavenly things? No one has ascended into heaven except the one who descended from heaven, the Son of Man. And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life. John 2:23-3:15

Today we hear the story of Nicodemus and Jesus. Nicodemus is very brave, coming to Jesus, since as a Pharisee, he would have been in terrible trouble for the encounter. He was to uphold and teach the traditional ways. And yet his heart was moved. He came to Jesus in the night for fear of retribution. His conversation with Jesus is both poignant and memorable. We are called to be born of water and the spirit. Born sacred by willing ourselves over to the transforming power of God in Jesus. Putting aside all fear, we are called to a heavenly rebirth in this season, a birth where love triumphs over all the world, where freedom is given to us as we serve. 

Marvelous Creator, source of all life

you breathe over creation and renew it

you sing sacred songs to enliven us

and you hold us when fear overwhelms us.

We cling to the traditions that bind us

we judge the people and things we fear

yet you call us to be born anew today

with sacred water and love's holy spirit.

Make us your children, your family today

so we might thrive and serve in scary times

so we might be heralds of your compassion

bringing unconditional love to our present chaos. Amen.

Overturning Tables

The Passover of the Jews was near, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. In the temple he found people selling cattle, sheep, and doves, and the money-changers seated at their tables. Making a whip of cords, he drove all of them out of the temple, both the sheep and the cattle. He also poured out the coins of the money-changers and overturned their tables. He told those who were selling the doves, ‘Take these things out of here! Stop making my Father’s house a market-place!’ His disciples remembered that it was written, ‘Zeal for your house will consume me.’ The Jews then said to him, ‘What sign can you show us for doing this?’ Jesus answered them, ‘Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.’ The Jews then said, ‘This temple has been under construction for forty-six years, and will you raise it up in three days?’ But he was speaking of the temple of his body. After he was raised from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this; and they believed the scripture and the word that Jesus had spoken. John 2:13-22

Nothing makes our Creator sadder than the abuse of the poor and the outsiders, particularly by religious and other leaders. Folks coming to the temple looking for blessings and prayers had to purchase animals for sacrifice. These people were taken advantage of and abused because of their need. We live in a world where it seems we are moving to that behavior again. We all must redouble our efforts to put the needy and the refugees in our sights and freely make room so they can thrive.

Blessed Creator, you tend this garden well

nurturing the strong and the weak alike

providing rain and nutrients so we thrive

and protecting the vulnerable from storms.

Some would make the vulnerable the problem

taxing and blaming them for all the ills of the world

shaming those who are not wealthy and powerful

making the refugees into problematic criminals.

Help us open our eyes today to your holy truths

that you love all peoples and care for all creation

make us your followers and help us break barriers

so love can flow free again and this garden earth thrive. Amen.

Fill the Jars

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 

I truly love the story of the wedding in Cana, not for the first miracle aspect, but for a glimpse of Jesus' humanity. The miracle cannot hide the very real interplay between mother and child. Mary sees the capacity and possibilities in Jesus before he truly sees it himself. And despite the fact that he is an adult, and in a very public place, he pushes back against her. This was so public that the event was remembered and retold many times. It was also possible that his mom, if she was anything like my mom, would remind him and tease him about it all the rest of his life. Our Savior knew our humanity, in the fullness of human, anger, struggle and family dynamics. May we embrace the full humanity of Jesus this Lent, so we might embrace ours and work to serve God's love despite our limitations.

Gracious Creator, you made Jesus fully human

rooted him in the full complex family dynamics

showing us his miracles and his real humanity

so we might understand your love for us all.

We fight and tussle with siblings and parents

we refuse to do as we are asked, going our way

we come running home when times are tough

and we have a Savior who knows our brokenness.

Help us Lord today, to live with humility 

so we might show your divine love here

in a world that is twisted and in great pain

let your love and healing shine through us today. Amen.

First Sunday in Lent

First Sunday in Lent 2025

After his baptism, Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness, where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. He ate nothing at all during those days, and when they were over, he was famished. The devil said to him, "If you are the Son of God, command this stone to become a loaf of bread." Jesus answered him, "It is written, 'One does not live by bread alone.'" Then the devil led him up and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world. And the devil said to him, "To you I will give their glory and all this authority; for it has been given over to me, and I give it to anyone I please. If you, then, will worship me, it will all be yours." Jesus answered him, "It is written, 'Worship the Lord your God, and serve only him.'" Then the devil took him to Jerusalem, and placed him on the pinnacle of the temple, saying to him, "If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down from here, for it is written, 'He will command his angels concerning you, to protect you,' and 'On their hands they will bear you up, so that you will not dash your foot against a stone.'" Jesus answered him, "It is said, 'Do not put the Lord your God to the test.'" When the devil had finished every test, he departed from him until an opportune time. Luke 4:1-13

We humans understand temptation. Maybe not on the scale that Jesus faced, with a devil promising him every power and blessing of this world, but we know how we ache to be recognized and important. We want to win, and some will go to great lengths to win, even if it means destroying others. We live in a time when those in power believe they are always right and attempt to destroy folks in their way. But that is not God's way or the way of Jesus who we follow. We are invited to feel hungry rather than let another go hungry. We are invited to refuse authority rather than see others abused. And we are invited today to choose to worship our Creator rather than great wealth and power.

Wondrous Creator, you sent your son

to live among the most human ones

and be tempted by the devil incarnate.

Precious Lord, make us humble so love conquers all.

We are tempted in every moment

aching to be rich and win at all costs

hoping to destroy those who humble us.

Precious Lord, make us humble so love conquers all.

Yet you showed us how to live in Jesus

who took no pleasure in his authority

and who had compassion on all people.

Precious Lord, make us humble so love conquers all.

Make us humble and your children again

so we can mend the broken hearts here.

Precious Lord, make us humble so love conquers all.

Your majesty is limitless and wondrous

yet you share beauty and peace with everyone.

Precious Lord, make us humble so love conquers all.

Let us live by following Jesus every day

so the world might know that love conquers all. 

Precious Lord, make us humble so love conquers all. Amen.