For this is how God loved the world: he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life. For God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but so that through him the world might be saved. No one who believes in him will be judged; but whoever does not believe is judged already, because that person does not believe in the Name of God's only Son. And the judgement is this: though the light has come into the world people have preferred darkness to the light because their deeds were evil. And indeed, everybody who does wrong hates the light and avoids it, to prevent his actions from being shown up; but whoever does the truth comes out into the light, so that what he is doing may plainly appear as done in God.' (John 3:16-21 NJB)
You almost cannot watch a major sporting event on TV without seeing at least one sign with "John 3:16" written on it. That's always made me want to cringe just a bit; not because it's a message that should not be proclaimed, but because the next verses, John 3:17-21, gives it all the context that it needs to make more sense. God sent His Son not to judge, but to save; to bring light, and life and reconciliation, to re-establish our relationship with God. The extra verses also lay out plainly that it is God who makes the effort to reach out to us and Who provides us the means and method of salvation; His own Son.
But you can't fit all of that on a hand held sign that will be seen for 10 0r 15 seconds while they set up for an extra point attempt. I wonder if the message might be more readily grasped if rather than holding up a somewhat crytic sign, we actually lived lives that proclaimed the truth that Jesus Christ is alive and that He is Lord.
28 February, 2007
Another Visit with Brother Lawrence
THIRD CONVERSATION
Faith working by love. * Outward business no detriment. * Perfect
resignation the sure way.
He told me, that the foundation of the spiritual life in him had been a high notion and esteem of GOD in faith; which when he had once well conceived, he had no other care at first, but faithfully to reject every other thought, that he might perform all his actions for the love of GOD. That when sometimes he had not thought of GOD for a good while, he did not disquiet himself for it; but after having acknowledged his wretchedness to GOD, he returned to Him with so much the greater trust in Him, by how much he found himself more wretched to have forgot Him.
That the trust we put in GOD honours Him much, and draws down great graces. That it was impossible, not only that GOD should deceive, but also that He should long let a soul suffer which is perfectly resigned to Him, and resolved to endure everything for His sake.
That he had so often experienced the ready succours of Divine Grace upon all occasions, that from the same experience, when he had business to do, he did not think of it beforehand; but when it was time to do it, he found in GOD, as in a clear mirror, all that was fit for him to do. That of late he had acted thus, without anticipating care; but before the experience above mentioned, he had used it in his affairs.
When outward business diverted him a little from the thought of GOD, a fresh remembrance coming from GOD invested his soul, and so inflamed and transported him that it was difficult for him to contain himself.
That he was more united to GOD in his outward employments, than when he left them for devotion in retirement.
That he expected hereafter some great pain of body or mind; that the worst that could happen to him was, to lose that sense of GOD, which he had enjoyed so long; but that the goodness of GOD assured him He would not forsake him utterly, and that He would give him strength to bear whatever evil He permitted to happen to him; and therefore that he feared nothing, and had no occasion to consult with anybody about his state. That when he had attempted to do it, he had always come away more perplexed; and that as he was conscious of his readiness to lay down his life for the love of GOD, he had no apprehension of danger. That perfect resignation to GOD was a sure way to heaven, a way in which we had always sufficient light for our conduct.
That in the beginning of the spiritual life, we ought to be faithful in doing our duty and denying ourselves; but after that unspeakable pleasures followed: that in difficulties we need only have recourse to JESUS CHRIST, and beg His grace, with which everything became easy.
That many do not advance in the Christian progress, because they stick in penances, and particular exercises, while they neglect the love of GOD, which is the end. That this appeared plainly by their works, and was the reason why we see so little solid virtue.
That there needed neither art nor science for going to GOD, but only a heart resolutely determined to apply itself to nothing but Him, or for His sake, and to love Him only.
Faith working by love. * Outward business no detriment. * Perfect
resignation the sure way.
He told me, that the foundation of the spiritual life in him had been a high notion and esteem of GOD in faith; which when he had once well conceived, he had no other care at first, but faithfully to reject every other thought, that he might perform all his actions for the love of GOD. That when sometimes he had not thought of GOD for a good while, he did not disquiet himself for it; but after having acknowledged his wretchedness to GOD, he returned to Him with so much the greater trust in Him, by how much he found himself more wretched to have forgot Him.
That the trust we put in GOD honours Him much, and draws down great graces. That it was impossible, not only that GOD should deceive, but also that He should long let a soul suffer which is perfectly resigned to Him, and resolved to endure everything for His sake.
That he had so often experienced the ready succours of Divine Grace upon all occasions, that from the same experience, when he had business to do, he did not think of it beforehand; but when it was time to do it, he found in GOD, as in a clear mirror, all that was fit for him to do. That of late he had acted thus, without anticipating care; but before the experience above mentioned, he had used it in his affairs.
When outward business diverted him a little from the thought of GOD, a fresh remembrance coming from GOD invested his soul, and so inflamed and transported him that it was difficult for him to contain himself.
That he was more united to GOD in his outward employments, than when he left them for devotion in retirement.
That he expected hereafter some great pain of body or mind; that the worst that could happen to him was, to lose that sense of GOD, which he had enjoyed so long; but that the goodness of GOD assured him He would not forsake him utterly, and that He would give him strength to bear whatever evil He permitted to happen to him; and therefore that he feared nothing, and had no occasion to consult with anybody about his state. That when he had attempted to do it, he had always come away more perplexed; and that as he was conscious of his readiness to lay down his life for the love of GOD, he had no apprehension of danger. That perfect resignation to GOD was a sure way to heaven, a way in which we had always sufficient light for our conduct.
That in the beginning of the spiritual life, we ought to be faithful in doing our duty and denying ourselves; but after that unspeakable pleasures followed: that in difficulties we need only have recourse to JESUS CHRIST, and beg His grace, with which everything became easy.
That many do not advance in the Christian progress, because they stick in penances, and particular exercises, while they neglect the love of GOD, which is the end. That this appeared plainly by their works, and was the reason why we see so little solid virtue.
That there needed neither art nor science for going to GOD, but only a heart resolutely determined to apply itself to nothing but Him, or for His sake, and to love Him only.
Gospel for 28 February, 2007
During his stay in Jerusalem for the feast of the Passover many believed in his name when they saw the signs that he did, but Jesus knew all people and did not trust himself to them; he never needed evidence about anyone; he could tell what someone had within. Now there was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicode'mus, a ruler of the Jews. This man came to Jesus by night and said to him, "Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that you do, unless God is with him." Jesus answered him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born anew, he cannot see the kingdom of God." Nicode'mus said to him, "How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born?" Jesus answered, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not marvel that I said to you, `You must be born anew.' The wind blows where it wills, and you hear the sound of it, but you do not know whence it comes or whither it goes; so it is with every one who is born of the Spirit." Nicode'mus said to him, "How can this be?" Jesus answered him, "Are you a teacher of Israel, and yet you do not understand this? Truly, truly, I say to you, we speak of what we know, and bear witness to what we have seen; but you do not receive our testimony. If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how can you believe if I tell you heavenly things? No one has ascended into heaven but he who descended from heaven, the Son of man. And 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 NJB)
Jesus "never needed evidence about anyone; he could tell what someone had within." What an awesome ability! To be able to tell what everyone was like on the inside. No role-playing. No disembling. Just the plain simple truth of who and what someone was. just imagine what it would be like to have that ability. Never again could a politician lie to you. Never again could the kids hope to blame something that broke on "Not Me". Never again could, "The check's in the mail" hope to work. Of course, we don't have that power. Only Jesus does; except when it comes to our own hearts. We can see there with crystal clarity, if only we dare to look.
Jesus "never needed evidence about anyone; he could tell what someone had within." What an awesome ability! To be able to tell what everyone was like on the inside. No role-playing. No disembling. Just the plain simple truth of who and what someone was. just imagine what it would be like to have that ability. Never again could a politician lie to you. Never again could the kids hope to blame something that broke on "Not Me". Never again could, "The check's in the mail" hope to work. Of course, we don't have that power. Only Jesus does; except when it comes to our own hearts. We can see there with crystal clarity, if only we dare to look.
27 February, 2007
When the time of the Jewish Passover was near Jesus went up to Jerusalem, and in the Temple he found people selling cattle and sheep and doves, and the money changers sitting there. Making a whip out of cord, he drove them all out of the Temple, sheep and cattle as well, scattered the money changers' coins, knocked their tables over and said to the dove sellers, ‘Take all this out of here and stop using my Father's house as a market.' Then his disciples remembered the words of scripture: I am eaten up with zeal for your house. The Jews intervened and said, ‘What sign can you show us that you should act like this?' Jesus answered, ‘Destroy this Temple, and in three days I will raise it up.' The Jews replied, ‘It has taken forty-six years to build this Temple: are you going to raise it up again in three days?' But he was speaking of the Temple that was his body, and when Jesus rose from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this, and they believed the scripture and what he had said. (John2:13-22 RSV)
Jesus threw the moneychangers and sellers of ritual animals from the Temple. The people did need to exchange their currency and purchase the appropriate animals for sacrifice, but the merchants in the Temple were notorius for overcharging the poor. The people had no where else to go, so they were at the mercy of the sellers and changers. Jesus would not countenance the poor being taken advantage of. How do we respond when we see injustices around us?
Jesus threw the moneychangers and sellers of ritual animals from the Temple. The people did need to exchange their currency and purchase the appropriate animals for sacrifice, but the merchants in the Temple were notorius for overcharging the poor. The people had no where else to go, so they were at the mercy of the sellers and changers. Jesus would not countenance the poor being taken advantage of. How do we respond when we see injustices around us?
26 February, 2007
Gospel for 26 February, 2007
On the third day there was a wedding at Cana in Galilee. The mother of Jesus was there, and Jesus and his disciples had also been invited. And they ran out of wine, since the wine provided for the feast had all been used, and the mother of Jesus said to him, ‘They have no wine.' Jesus said, ‘Woman, what do you want from me? My hour has not come yet.' His mother said to the servants, ‘Do whatever he tells you.' There were six stone water jars standing there, meant for the ablutions that are customary among the Jews: each could hold twenty or thirty gallons. Jesus said to the servants, ‘Fill the jars with water,' and they filled them to the brim. Then he said to them, ‘Draw some out now and take it to the president of the feast.' They did this; the president tasted the water, and it had turned into wine. Having no idea where it came from—though the servants who had drawn the water knew—the president of the feast called the bridegroom and said, ‘Everyone serves good wine first and the worse wine when the guests are well wined; but you have kept the best wine till now.' This was the first of Jesus' signs: it was at Cana in Galilee. He revealed his glory, and his disciples believed in him. After this he went down to Capernaum with his mother and his brothers and his disciples, but they stayed there only a few days.
A few weeks ago this selection from the Gospel was the Gospel Lesson for the Sunday Liturgy. A comment that I made in the meditation for that daywas that the words of our blessed Lady, "Do whatever He tells you", were the best advice anyone has ever given. I stand by those words. Doing whatever Jesus tells us to do is one sure and certain way to remain at peace with God and our brothers and sisters in the Church. It may mean enmity with the world, but such is Life.
A few weeks ago this selection from the Gospel was the Gospel Lesson for the Sunday Liturgy. A comment that I made in the meditation for that daywas that the words of our blessed Lady, "Do whatever He tells you", were the best advice anyone has ever given. I stand by those words. Doing whatever Jesus tells us to do is one sure and certain way to remain at peace with God and our brothers and sisters in the Church. It may mean enmity with the world, but such is Life.
25 February, 2007
Another Visit with Brother Lawrence
SECOND CONVERSATION
Love the motive of all. * Once in fear, now in joy. * Diligence and love. Simplicity the key to Divine assistance. * Business abroad as at home. * Times of prayer and self-mortification not essential for the practice. * All scruples brought to God.
That he had always been governed by love, without selfish views; and that having resolved to make the love of GOD the end of all his actions, he had found reasons to be well satisfied with his method. That he was pleased when he could take up a straw from the ground for the love of GOD, seeking Him only, and nothing else, not even His gifts.
That he had been long troubled in mind from a certain belief that he should be damned; that all the men in the world could not have persuaded him to the contrary; but that he had thus reasoned with himself about it: I did not engage in a religious life but for the love of GOD, and I have endeavoured to act only for Him; whatever becomes of me, whether I be lost or saved, I will always continue to act purely for the love of GOD. I shall have this good at least, that till death I shall have done all that is in me to love Him. That this trouble of mind had lasted four years; during which time he had suffered much.
That since that time he had passed his life in perfect liberty and continual joy. That he placed his sins betwixt him and GOD, as it were, to tell Him that he did not deserve His favours, but that GOD still continued to bestow them in abundance.
That in order to form a habit of conversing with GOD continually, and referring all we do to Him; we must at first apply to Him with some
diligence: but that after a little care we should find His love inwardly excite us to it without any difficulty.
That he expected after the pleasant days GOD had given him, he should have his turn of pain and suffering; but that he was not uneasy about it, knowing very well, that as he could do nothing of himself, GOD would not fail to give him the strength to bear them. That when an occasion of practicing some virtue offered, he addressed himself to GOD, saying, LORD, I cannot do this unless Thou enablest me; and that then he received strength more than sufficient.
That when he had failed in his duty, he only confessed his fault, saying to GOD, I shall never do otherwise, if You leave me to myself; ’tis You must hinder my falling, and mend what is amiss. That after this, he gave himself no further uneasiness about it.
That we ought to act with GOD in the greatest simplicity, speaking to Him frankly and plainly, and imploring His assistance in our affairs, just as they happen. That GOD never failed to grant it, as he had often experienced.
That he had been lately sent into Burgundy, to buy the provision of wine for the society, which was a very unwelcome task for him, because he had no turn for business and because he was lame, and could not go about the boat but by rolling himself over the casks. That however he gave himself no uneasiness about it, nor about the purchase of the wine. That he said to GOD, It was His business he was about, and that he afterwards found it very well performed. That he had been sent into Auvergne the year before upon the same account; that he could not tell how the matter passed, but that it proved very well.
So, likewise, in his business in the kitchen (to which he had naturally a great aversion), having accustomed himself to do everything there for the love of GOD, and with prayer, upon all occasions, for His grace to do his work well, he had found everything easy, during the fifteen years that he had been employed there.
That he was very well pleased with the post he was now in; but that he was as ready to quit that as the former, since he was always pleasing himself in every condition, by doing little things for the love of GOD.
That with him the set times of prayer were not different from other times: that he retired to pray, according to the directions of his Superior, but that he did not want such retirement. nor ask for it, because his greatest business did not divert him from GOD.
That as he knew his obligation to love GOD in all things, and as he
endeavoured so to do, he had no need of a director to advise him, but that he needed much a confessor to absolve him. That he was very sensible of his faults, but not discouraged by them; that he confessed them to GOD, and did not plead against Him to excuse them. When he had so done, he peaceably resumed his usual practice of love and adoration.
That in his trouble of mind, he had consulted nobody, but knowing only by the light of faith that GOD was present, he contented himself with directing all his actions to Him, i.e., doing them with a desire to please Him, let what would come of it.
That useless thoughts spoil all: that the mischief began there; but that we ought to reject them, as soon as we perceived their impertinence to the matter in hand, or our salvation; and return to our communion with GOD.
That at the beginning he had often passed his time appointed for prayer, in rejecting wandering thoughts, and falling back into them. That he could never regulate his devotion by certain methods as some do. That nevertheless, at first he had meditated for some time, but afterwards that went off, in a manner that he could give no account of.
That all bodily mortifications and other exercises are useless, but as they serve to arrive at the union with GOD by love; that he had well considered this, and found it the shortest way to go straight to Him by a continual exercise of love, and doing all things for His sake.
That we ought to make a great difference between the acts of the
understanding and those of the will; that the first were comparatively of little value, and the others all.
That our only business was to love and delight ourselves in GOD.
That all possible kinds of mortification, if they were void of the love of GOD, could not efface a single sin. That we ought, without anxiety, to expect the pardon of our sins from the Blood of JESUS CHRIST, only endeavouring to love Him with all our hearts. That GOD seemed to have granted the greatest favours to the greatest sinners, as more signal monuments of His mercy.
That the greatest pains or pleasures, of this world, were not to be compared with what he had experienced of both kinds in a spiritual
state: so that he was careful for nothing and feared nothing, desiring but one only thing of GOD, viz., that he might not offend Him.
That he had no scruples; for, said he, when I fail in my duty, I readily acknowledge it, saying, I am used to do so: I shall never do otherwise, if I am left to myself. If I fail not, then I give GOD thanks, acknowledging that it comes from Him.
Love the motive of all. * Once in fear, now in joy. * Diligence and love. Simplicity the key to Divine assistance. * Business abroad as at home. * Times of prayer and self-mortification not essential for the practice. * All scruples brought to God.
That he had always been governed by love, without selfish views; and that having resolved to make the love of GOD the end of all his actions, he had found reasons to be well satisfied with his method. That he was pleased when he could take up a straw from the ground for the love of GOD, seeking Him only, and nothing else, not even His gifts.
That he had been long troubled in mind from a certain belief that he should be damned; that all the men in the world could not have persuaded him to the contrary; but that he had thus reasoned with himself about it: I did not engage in a religious life but for the love of GOD, and I have endeavoured to act only for Him; whatever becomes of me, whether I be lost or saved, I will always continue to act purely for the love of GOD. I shall have this good at least, that till death I shall have done all that is in me to love Him. That this trouble of mind had lasted four years; during which time he had suffered much.
That since that time he had passed his life in perfect liberty and continual joy. That he placed his sins betwixt him and GOD, as it were, to tell Him that he did not deserve His favours, but that GOD still continued to bestow them in abundance.
That in order to form a habit of conversing with GOD continually, and referring all we do to Him; we must at first apply to Him with some
diligence: but that after a little care we should find His love inwardly excite us to it without any difficulty.
That he expected after the pleasant days GOD had given him, he should have his turn of pain and suffering; but that he was not uneasy about it, knowing very well, that as he could do nothing of himself, GOD would not fail to give him the strength to bear them. That when an occasion of practicing some virtue offered, he addressed himself to GOD, saying, LORD, I cannot do this unless Thou enablest me; and that then he received strength more than sufficient.
That when he had failed in his duty, he only confessed his fault, saying to GOD, I shall never do otherwise, if You leave me to myself; ’tis You must hinder my falling, and mend what is amiss. That after this, he gave himself no further uneasiness about it.
That we ought to act with GOD in the greatest simplicity, speaking to Him frankly and plainly, and imploring His assistance in our affairs, just as they happen. That GOD never failed to grant it, as he had often experienced.
That he had been lately sent into Burgundy, to buy the provision of wine for the society, which was a very unwelcome task for him, because he had no turn for business and because he was lame, and could not go about the boat but by rolling himself over the casks. That however he gave himself no uneasiness about it, nor about the purchase of the wine. That he said to GOD, It was His business he was about, and that he afterwards found it very well performed. That he had been sent into Auvergne the year before upon the same account; that he could not tell how the matter passed, but that it proved very well.
So, likewise, in his business in the kitchen (to which he had naturally a great aversion), having accustomed himself to do everything there for the love of GOD, and with prayer, upon all occasions, for His grace to do his work well, he had found everything easy, during the fifteen years that he had been employed there.
That he was very well pleased with the post he was now in; but that he was as ready to quit that as the former, since he was always pleasing himself in every condition, by doing little things for the love of GOD.
That with him the set times of prayer were not different from other times: that he retired to pray, according to the directions of his Superior, but that he did not want such retirement. nor ask for it, because his greatest business did not divert him from GOD.
That as he knew his obligation to love GOD in all things, and as he
endeavoured so to do, he had no need of a director to advise him, but that he needed much a confessor to absolve him. That he was very sensible of his faults, but not discouraged by them; that he confessed them to GOD, and did not plead against Him to excuse them. When he had so done, he peaceably resumed his usual practice of love and adoration.
That in his trouble of mind, he had consulted nobody, but knowing only by the light of faith that GOD was present, he contented himself with directing all his actions to Him, i.e., doing them with a desire to please Him, let what would come of it.
That useless thoughts spoil all: that the mischief began there; but that we ought to reject them, as soon as we perceived their impertinence to the matter in hand, or our salvation; and return to our communion with GOD.
That at the beginning he had often passed his time appointed for prayer, in rejecting wandering thoughts, and falling back into them. That he could never regulate his devotion by certain methods as some do. That nevertheless, at first he had meditated for some time, but afterwards that went off, in a manner that he could give no account of.
That all bodily mortifications and other exercises are useless, but as they serve to arrive at the union with GOD by love; that he had well considered this, and found it the shortest way to go straight to Him by a continual exercise of love, and doing all things for His sake.
That we ought to make a great difference between the acts of the
understanding and those of the will; that the first were comparatively of little value, and the others all.
That our only business was to love and delight ourselves in GOD.
That all possible kinds of mortification, if they were void of the love of GOD, could not efface a single sin. That we ought, without anxiety, to expect the pardon of our sins from the Blood of JESUS CHRIST, only endeavouring to love Him with all our hearts. That GOD seemed to have granted the greatest favours to the greatest sinners, as more signal monuments of His mercy.
That the greatest pains or pleasures, of this world, were not to be compared with what he had experienced of both kinds in a spiritual
state: so that he was careful for nothing and feared nothing, desiring but one only thing of GOD, viz., that he might not offend Him.
That he had no scruples; for, said he, when I fail in my duty, I readily acknowledge it, saying, I am used to do so: I shall never do otherwise, if I am left to myself. If I fail not, then I give GOD thanks, acknowledging that it comes from Him.
Gospel for 25 February, 2007
Now John's disciples and the Pharisees were fasting; and people came and said to him, "Why do John's disciples and the disciples of the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?" And Jesus said to them, "Can the wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them? As long as they have the bridegroom with them, they cannot fast. The days will come, when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast in that day. No one sews a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment; if he does, the patch tears away from it, the new from the old, and a worse tear is made. And no one puts new wine into old wineskins; if he does, the wine will burst the skins, and the wine is lost, and so are the skins; but new wine is for fresh skins." (Mark 2:18-22 RSV)
Jesus and his disciples often did not follow the conventions of their society. They were often out of sync with the rest of their fellows. Today we see that they were feasting when others were fasting. And they got called on the carpet because of it. They got a tonguelashing from the established religion. Well, guess what? That's the way it's going to be from here on out. If we are really following Jesus, taking him seriously, it means that we are going to be doing things differently from the world and from those in power. It means that we are at odds with society and is often going to mean that we can expect to get into hot water for it. But then, as Jesus said, the slave is not greater than the master. We can't expect any better treatment than He got.
Being at odds with power is not something that we should be really all that concerned about. That's just going to be par for the course. When we need to be really concerned is when the world calls us "friend".
Jesus and his disciples often did not follow the conventions of their society. They were often out of sync with the rest of their fellows. Today we see that they were feasting when others were fasting. And they got called on the carpet because of it. They got a tonguelashing from the established religion. Well, guess what? That's the way it's going to be from here on out. If we are really following Jesus, taking him seriously, it means that we are going to be doing things differently from the world and from those in power. It means that we are at odds with society and is often going to mean that we can expect to get into hot water for it. But then, as Jesus said, the slave is not greater than the master. We can't expect any better treatment than He got.
Being at odds with power is not something that we should be really all that concerned about. That's just going to be par for the course. When we need to be really concerned is when the world calls us "friend".
24 February, 2007
Gospel for 24 February, 2007
The next day Jesus decided to go to Galilee. And he found Philip and said to him, "Follow me." Now Philip was from Beth-sa'ida, the city of Andrew and Peter. Philip found Nathan'a-el, and said to him, "We have found him of whom Moses in the law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph." Nathan'a-el said to him, "Can anything good come out of Nazareth?" Philip said to him, "Come and see." Jesus saw Nathan'a-el coming to him, and said of him, "Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile!" Nathan'a-el said to him, "How do you know me?" Jesus answered him, "Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you." Nathan'a-el answered him, "Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!" Jesus answered him, "Because I said to you, I saw you under the fig tree, do you believe? You shall see greater things than these." And he said to him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man." (John 1:43-51 RSV)
Something to take note of in the call of the disciples in St. John's Gospel, is that John records that Jesus can see directly into the hearts those men. Before they have even met, Jesus knows them intimately. The Psalmist said that God knew him even in his mother's womb. It shouldn't be surprising then, that Jesus does know them. Or you and me.
Something to take note of in the call of the disciples in St. John's Gospel, is that John records that Jesus can see directly into the hearts those men. Before they have even met, Jesus knows them intimately. The Psalmist said that God knew him even in his mother's womb. It shouldn't be surprising then, that Jesus does know them. Or you and me.
23 February, 2007
Bro.Lawrence 1st Conversation
Conversion and previous employment. * Satisfaction in God’s presence. *
Faith our duty. * Resignation the fruit of watchfulness.
THE first time I saw Brother Lawrence was upon the 3rd of August, 1666. He told me that GOD had done him a singular favour, in his conversion at the age of eighteen.
That in the winter, seeing a tree stripped of its leaves, and considering that within a little time, the leaves would be renewed, and after that the flowers and fruit appear, he received a high view of the Providence and Power of GOD, which has never since been effaced from his soul. That this view had perfectly set him loose from the world, and kindled in him such a love for GOD, that he could not tell whether it had increased in above forty years that he had lived since.
That he had been footman to M. Fieubert, the treasurer, and that he was a great awkward fellow who broke everything. That he had desired to be received into a monastery, thinking that he would there be made to smart for his awkwardness and the faults he should commit, and so he should sacrifice to GOD his life, with its pleasures: but that GOD had disappointed him, he having met with nothing but satisfaction in that state.
That we should establish ourselves in a sense of GOD’s Presence, by
continually conversing with Him. That it was a shameful thing to quit His conversation, to think of trifles and fooleries.
That we should feed and nourish our souls with high notions of GOD; which would yield us great joy in being devoted to Him.
That we ought to quicken, i.e., to enliven, our faith. That it was lamentable we had so little; and that instead of taking faith for the rule of their conduct, men amused themselves with trivial devotions, which changed daily. That the way of Faith was the spirit of the Church, and that it was sufficient to bring us to a high degree of perfection.
That we ought to give ourselves up to GOD, with regard both to things temporal and spiritual, and seek our satisfaction only in the fulfilling His will, whether He lead us by suffering or by consolation, for all would be equal to a soul truly resigned. That there needed fidelity in those drynesses, or insensibilities and irksomenesses in prayer, by which GOD tries our love to Him; that then was the time for us to make good and effectual acts of resignation, whereof one alone would oftentimes very much promote our spiritual advancement.
That as for the miseries and sins he heard of daily in the world, he was so far from wondering at them, that, on the contrary, he was surprised there were not more, considering the malice sinners were capable of: that for his part, he prayed for them; but knowing that GOD could remedy the mischiefs they did, when He pleased, he gave himself no farther trouble.
That to arrive at such resignation as GOD requires, we should watch attentively over all the passions which mingle as well in spiritual things as those of a grosser nature: that GOD would give light concerning those passions to those who truly desire to serve Him. That if this was my design, viz., sincerely to serve GOD, I might come to him (Bro. Lawrence) as often as I pleased, without any fear of being troublesome; but if not, that I ought no more to visit him.Conversion and previous employment.
_
Faith our duty. * Resignation the fruit of watchfulness.
THE first time I saw Brother Lawrence was upon the 3rd of August, 1666. He told me that GOD had done him a singular favour, in his conversion at the age of eighteen.
That in the winter, seeing a tree stripped of its leaves, and considering that within a little time, the leaves would be renewed, and after that the flowers and fruit appear, he received a high view of the Providence and Power of GOD, which has never since been effaced from his soul. That this view had perfectly set him loose from the world, and kindled in him such a love for GOD, that he could not tell whether it had increased in above forty years that he had lived since.
That he had been footman to M. Fieubert, the treasurer, and that he was a great awkward fellow who broke everything. That he had desired to be received into a monastery, thinking that he would there be made to smart for his awkwardness and the faults he should commit, and so he should sacrifice to GOD his life, with its pleasures: but that GOD had disappointed him, he having met with nothing but satisfaction in that state.
That we should establish ourselves in a sense of GOD’s Presence, by
continually conversing with Him. That it was a shameful thing to quit His conversation, to think of trifles and fooleries.
That we should feed and nourish our souls with high notions of GOD; which would yield us great joy in being devoted to Him.
That we ought to quicken, i.e., to enliven, our faith. That it was lamentable we had so little; and that instead of taking faith for the rule of their conduct, men amused themselves with trivial devotions, which changed daily. That the way of Faith was the spirit of the Church, and that it was sufficient to bring us to a high degree of perfection.
That we ought to give ourselves up to GOD, with regard both to things temporal and spiritual, and seek our satisfaction only in the fulfilling His will, whether He lead us by suffering or by consolation, for all would be equal to a soul truly resigned. That there needed fidelity in those drynesses, or insensibilities and irksomenesses in prayer, by which GOD tries our love to Him; that then was the time for us to make good and effectual acts of resignation, whereof one alone would oftentimes very much promote our spiritual advancement.
That as for the miseries and sins he heard of daily in the world, he was so far from wondering at them, that, on the contrary, he was surprised there were not more, considering the malice sinners were capable of: that for his part, he prayed for them; but knowing that GOD could remedy the mischiefs they did, when He pleased, he gave himself no farther trouble.
That to arrive at such resignation as GOD requires, we should watch attentively over all the passions which mingle as well in spiritual things as those of a grosser nature: that GOD would give light concerning those passions to those who truly desire to serve Him. That if this was my design, viz., sincerely to serve GOD, I might come to him (Bro. Lawrence) as often as I pleased, without any fear of being troublesome; but if not, that I ought no more to visit him.Conversion and previous employment.
_
Brother Lawrence
Throughout Lent, every other day we'll be posting an excerpt from the classic "The Practice of the Presence of God", by Brother Lawrence, a 17th Century Carmelite. A one time soldier, who fought in the Thirty Years War, he experienced a conversion and entered the Dicalced Carmelite Priory in Paris. There he spent the rest of his life working in the kitchen or repairing sandals.
And so, here we begin:
PREFACE
“I believe in the ... communion of saints.”
SURELY if additional proof of its reality were needed, it might be found in the universal oneness of experimental Christianity in all ages and in all lands. The experiences of Thomas á Kempis, of Tauler and of Madame Guyon, of John Woolman and Hester Ann Rogers, how marvellously they agree, and how perfectly they harmonize! And Nicholas Herman, of Lorraine, whose letters and converse are here given, testifies to the same truth! In communion with Rome, a lay brother among the Carmelites, for several years a soldier, in an irreligious age, amid a sceptical people, yet in him the practice of the presence of GOD was as much a reality as the “watch” of the early Friends, and the “holy seed” in him and others was the “stock” (Isa. vi. 16) from which grew the household and evangelistic piety of the eighteenth century, of Epworth and of Moorfields.
“When unadorned, adorned the most” is the line which deters from any interpolations or interpretations other than the few “contents” headings which are given. May the “Christ in you” be the “hope of glory” to all who read.
And so, here we begin:
PREFACE
“I believe in the ... communion of saints.”
SURELY if additional proof of its reality were needed, it might be found in the universal oneness of experimental Christianity in all ages and in all lands. The experiences of Thomas á Kempis, of Tauler and of Madame Guyon, of John Woolman and Hester Ann Rogers, how marvellously they agree, and how perfectly they harmonize! And Nicholas Herman, of Lorraine, whose letters and converse are here given, testifies to the same truth! In communion with Rome, a lay brother among the Carmelites, for several years a soldier, in an irreligious age, amid a sceptical people, yet in him the practice of the presence of GOD was as much a reality as the “watch” of the early Friends, and the “holy seed” in him and others was the “stock” (Isa. vi. 16) from which grew the household and evangelistic piety of the eighteenth century, of Epworth and of Moorfields.
“When unadorned, adorned the most” is the line which deters from any interpolations or interpretations other than the few “contents” headings which are given. May the “Christ in you” be the “hope of glory” to all who read.
Gospel for 23 February, 2007
The next day again John was standing with two of his disciples; and he looked at Jesus as he walked, and said, "Behold, the Lamb of God!" The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus. Jesus turned, and saw them following, and said to them, "What do you seek?" And they said to him, "Rabbi" (which means Teacher), "where are you staying?" He said to them, "Come and see." They came and saw where he was staying; and they stayed with him that day, for it was about the tenth hour. 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 means Christ). He brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him, and said, "So you are Simon the son of John? You shall be called Cephas" (which means Peter). (John 1:35-42 RSV)
The story of the firts two disciples going with Jesus and spending the day with him usually focuses on St Andrew going off and finding his brother, Peter and bringing him to Jesus. Andrew is rightly lauded for not being afraid to proclaim the Gospel and bring others the Good News of Jesus. But there is something else important that the focus on Andrew as evangelist tends to overlook. It is the fact that these two disciples, and presumably Peter as well, spent the rest of the day with Jesus. They allowed the world to do without them for a time and they spent the day with Jesus; listening to and talking with Him. How often do we take Jesus seriously enough to just spend some time with Him, without any of the multitude of distractions that tend to fill our lives? Perhaps this Lent we should daily take a time out from the world; no phones, no TV, no radio and just invest some time getting to know Jesus again.
The story of the firts two disciples going with Jesus and spending the day with him usually focuses on St Andrew going off and finding his brother, Peter and bringing him to Jesus. Andrew is rightly lauded for not being afraid to proclaim the Gospel and bring others the Good News of Jesus. But there is something else important that the focus on Andrew as evangelist tends to overlook. It is the fact that these two disciples, and presumably Peter as well, spent the rest of the day with Jesus. They allowed the world to do without them for a time and they spent the day with Jesus; listening to and talking with Him. How often do we take Jesus seriously enough to just spend some time with Him, without any of the multitude of distractions that tend to fill our lives? Perhaps this Lent we should daily take a time out from the world; no phones, no TV, no radio and just invest some time getting to know Jesus again.
22 February, 2007
Gospel for 22 February, 2007
The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, "Behold, 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 before me, for he was before me.' I myself did not know him; but for this I came baptizing with water, that he might be revealed to Israel." And John bore witness, "I saw the Spirit descend as a dove from heaven, and it remained on him. I myself did not know him; but he who sent me to baptize with water said to me, `He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain, this is he who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.' And I have seen and have borne witness that this is the Son of God." (John 1:29-34 RSV)
In these five short verses, St. John has an awful lot to say. He confers upon Jesus 5 different titles. He is "the Lamb of God". He is the one "who ranks before me". He is the one upon whom "the Spirit descended". He is the one who will "Baptize with the Holy Spirit." And finally He is "the Son of God." All of these are impressive titles. John has an exalted idea of who Jesus is and what his place is in the grand scheme of things.
But I keep thinking that there is something missing that John cannot supply or answer. What John believes about Jesus is important, for John. But there are questions that I only I may answer: 'Who is Jesus to me ?' 'What position, what titles do I grant to Him?' and 'Do my actions confirm the words of my testimony about Jesus?'
In these five short verses, St. John has an awful lot to say. He confers upon Jesus 5 different titles. He is "the Lamb of God". He is the one "who ranks before me". He is the one upon whom "the Spirit descended". He is the one who will "Baptize with the Holy Spirit." And finally He is "the Son of God." All of these are impressive titles. John has an exalted idea of who Jesus is and what his place is in the grand scheme of things.
But I keep thinking that there is something missing that John cannot supply or answer. What John believes about Jesus is important, for John. But there are questions that I only I may answer: 'Who is Jesus to me ?' 'What position, what titles do I grant to Him?' and 'Do my actions confirm the words of my testimony about Jesus?'
21 February, 2007
Gospel for 21 February, 2007
He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous and despised others: "Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, `God, I thank thee that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week, I give tithes of all that I get.' But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, `God, be merciful to me a sinner!' I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for every one who exalts himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted."
At Twelve Step meetings, it is interesting that those present introduce themselves as, "My name is '----' and I'm an alcoholic, addict, etc. Ever wondered why that is? It's so that they cannot fool themselves into thinking that they are something they are not. They are addicts. That's why they are there. Even after 20 years of sobriety, they are still addicts. One brief moment of weakness and that man or woman is no different than the winos on skid row, or the junkies in a back alley selling their bodies for the next rock of crack.
Pharisees don't do well in Twelve Step programs, because they are forced to look at who and what they really are. Sad to say that there are still plenty of Pharisees around. Maybe in the church, when we pass the peace, we should introduce ourselves, "My name is ---, and I'm a sinner." At least we'd be honest. Who knows? Someday we might even start to realize just how true those words are and how much we really owe to God's Grace.
At Twelve Step meetings, it is interesting that those present introduce themselves as, "My name is '----' and I'm an alcoholic, addict, etc. Ever wondered why that is? It's so that they cannot fool themselves into thinking that they are something they are not. They are addicts. That's why they are there. Even after 20 years of sobriety, they are still addicts. One brief moment of weakness and that man or woman is no different than the winos on skid row, or the junkies in a back alley selling their bodies for the next rock of crack.
Pharisees don't do well in Twelve Step programs, because they are forced to look at who and what they really are. Sad to say that there are still plenty of Pharisees around. Maybe in the church, when we pass the peace, we should introduce ourselves, "My name is ---, and I'm a sinner." At least we'd be honest. Who knows? Someday we might even start to realize just how true those words are and how much we really owe to God's Grace.
20 February, 2007
Gospel for 20 February, 2007
And this is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, "Who are you?" He confessed, he did not deny, but confessed, "I am not the Christ." And they asked him, "What then? Are you Elijah?" He said, "I am not." "Are you the prophet?" And he answered, "No." They said to him then, "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 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, "Then why are you baptizing, if you are neither the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the prophet?" John answered them, "I baptize with water; but among you stands one whom you do not know, even he who comes after me, the thong of whose sandal I am not worthy to untie." This took place in Bethany beyond the Jordan, where John was baptizing.
When the important religious leaders of the dy came to John and asked who he was, they were really, somewhat snidely asking, 'who do you think you are?' No answer John could give them would have satisfied them.. So all John could say was that he was just one solitary voice crying in the wilderness. If we are faithful to proclaiming the Good News of the Kingdom of God, we will often be challenged, threatened, perhaps even imprisoned or martyred. Be at peace, and fear not, however. That is how they treated the prophets, like John, before us. We just need to continue with our task of proclaiming the Gospel.
When the important religious leaders of the dy came to John and asked who he was, they were really, somewhat snidely asking, 'who do you think you are?' No answer John could give them would have satisfied them.. So all John could say was that he was just one solitary voice crying in the wilderness. If we are faithful to proclaiming the Good News of the Kingdom of God, we will often be challenged, threatened, perhaps even imprisoned or martyred. Be at peace, and fear not, however. That is how they treated the prophets, like John, before us. We just need to continue with our task of proclaiming the Gospel.
19 February, 2007
RIP TEC
There is a meeting of all of the national Primates of the Anglican Communion underway right now. They are meeting to discuss what to do about the US Episcopal Church, which according to many is acting outside of the bounds of authentic orthodox-catholic Christianity. The Associated Press today published an article that announced the determination of the new Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church, Katherine Jefferts Schori, to not back down from her positions in favor of the ordination of openly gay and lesbian clergy, and the blessing of same sex marriages / unions. The article went on to state that the issue of gays and lesbians in the Church, could cause a schism within the worldwide Anglican Communion.
As a former Anglican myself, I grieve for the pain and hurt that schism is going to cause. I wll not debate the issue here. My jurisdiction does not ordain openly gay men and does not bless same-sex relationships. That case is closed. Still, I really have to wonder why the Anglicans are now up in arms over the issue of homosexuality. Why are they finally up in arms over this, when the Communion completely ignored the Episcopal Church's refusal to deal with openly heretical bishops? Such men as the late (and very tragic) James Pike and the contemporary John Shelby Spong have denied the most basic tenets of the orthodox-catholic Faith, including the Trinity, the Incarnation, the Resurrection, etc. Even in my home state of Minnesota the Episcopal Bishop, a short time after his election and consecration, could announce during a radio interview, that he, "didn't like the Creed". Yet these Bishops were allowed to remain unchallenged as full members, teachers and shepherds within the Communion.
The ordination of openly gay and lesbian clergy may finally get the Episcopal Church removed from the Anglican Communion, or it may cause the Communion itself to split asunder. But the truth is, the Episcopal Church died years ago when it could no longer affirm the Faith of the one holy catholic and apostolic Church. I just can't understand why it took so long for the rest of the Communion to finally notice.
As a former Anglican myself, I grieve for the pain and hurt that schism is going to cause. I wll not debate the issue here. My jurisdiction does not ordain openly gay men and does not bless same-sex relationships. That case is closed. Still, I really have to wonder why the Anglicans are now up in arms over the issue of homosexuality. Why are they finally up in arms over this, when the Communion completely ignored the Episcopal Church's refusal to deal with openly heretical bishops? Such men as the late (and very tragic) James Pike and the contemporary John Shelby Spong have denied the most basic tenets of the orthodox-catholic Faith, including the Trinity, the Incarnation, the Resurrection, etc. Even in my home state of Minnesota the Episcopal Bishop, a short time after his election and consecration, could announce during a radio interview, that he, "didn't like the Creed". Yet these Bishops were allowed to remain unchallenged as full members, teachers and shepherds within the Communion.
The ordination of openly gay and lesbian clergy may finally get the Episcopal Church removed from the Anglican Communion, or it may cause the Communion itself to split asunder. But the truth is, the Episcopal Church died years ago when it could no longer affirm the Faith of the one holy catholic and apostolic Church. I just can't understand why it took so long for the rest of the Communion to finally notice.
Gospel for 10 February, 2007
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 were made through him, and without him was not anything made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came for testimony, to bear witness to the light, that all might believe through him. He was not the light, but came to bear witness to the light. The true light that enlightens every man was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world knew him not. He came to his own home, and his own people received him not. 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 nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth; we have beheld his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father. (John bore witness to him, and cried, "This was he of whom I said, `He who comes after me ranks before me, for he was before me.'") And from his fulness have we all received, grace upon grace. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God; the only Son, who is in the bosom of the Father, he has made him known. (John 1:1-18 RSV)
"...to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave the power to become children of God..." That's a pretty impressive title, the choldren of God. But what does it entitle us to? It entitles us to live lives of selflessness that are dedicated to serving others. It entitles us to be hated by the rulers and authorities of this world. It entitles us to be despised and beaten, persecuted and reviled. It entitles us to give up our lives that others might live. In short, it entitles us to the same special place in the heart of the Father that Jesus has.
"...to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave the power to become children of God..." That's a pretty impressive title, the choldren of God. But what does it entitle us to? It entitles us to live lives of selflessness that are dedicated to serving others. It entitles us to be hated by the rulers and authorities of this world. It entitles us to be despised and beaten, persecuted and reviled. It entitles us to give up our lives that others might live. In short, it entitles us to the same special place in the heart of the Father that Jesus has.
18 February, 2007
The Gospel for 18 Fenruary, 2007
Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. He who loves his life loses it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. If any one serves me, he must follow me; and where I am, there shall my servant be also; if any one serves me, the Father will honor him. "Now is my soul troubled. And what shall I say? `Father, save me from this hour'? No, for this purpose I have come to this hour. Father, glorify thy name." Then a voice came from heaven, "I have glorified it, and I will glorify it again." The crowd standing by heard it and said that it had thundered. Others said, "An angel has spoken to him." 30 Jesus answered, "This voice has come for your sake, not for mine. Now is the judgment of this world, now shall the ruler of this world be cast out; and I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to myself." (John 12:24-32 RSV)
A grain of wheat remains nothing but a single solitary grain if left to its own devices. But plant that grain in good soil, give it water and sunlight and nutrients and... it dies. It cracks, splits, bursts asunder and ceases to exist, as it is. It is changed. transformed, given new life as a sheaf of grain, reproducing itself untold times, so that it may feed the multitudes who hunger for its goodness and vitality. Maybe we should take lessons...
A grain of wheat remains nothing but a single solitary grain if left to its own devices. But plant that grain in good soil, give it water and sunlight and nutrients and... it dies. It cracks, splits, bursts asunder and ceases to exist, as it is. It is changed. transformed, given new life as a sheaf of grain, reproducing itself untold times, so that it may feed the multitudes who hunger for its goodness and vitality. Maybe we should take lessons...
17 February, 2007
Gospel for 17 February, 2007
And as Jesus taught in the temple, he said, "How can the scribes say that the Christ is the son of David? David himself, inspired by the Holy Spirit, declared, `The Lord said to my Lord, Sit at my right hand, till I put thy enemies under thy feet.' David himself calls him Lord; so how is he his son?" And the great throng heard him gladly. And in his teaching he said, "Beware of the scribes, who like to go about in long robes, and to have salutations in the market places and the best seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at feasts, who devour widows' houses and for a pretense make long prayers. They will receive the greater condemnation." And he sat down opposite the treasury, and watched the multitude putting money into the treasury. Many rich people put in large sums. And a poor widow came, and put in two copper coins, which make a penny. And he called his disciples to him, and said to them, "Truly, I say to you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury. For they all contributed out of their abundance; but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, her whole living."
My hometown paper, the Minneapolis Star Tribune this past week had several articles in it about a local pastor of a mega-Church who is being accused of making sweetheart financial deals through the Church. He's been preaching the so-called prosperity Gospel for years and his congregation numbers about 10,000. In the process, he's accumulated several homes in Florida, a vacation retreat in the lakes region of Minnesota, a Lexus, expensive clothing, and a private jet, which the Church sold to him and then leased back from him for more far more than what his payments on the plane contract are. His justification for this was that he preaches better when he's well dressed, so that he's really doing it for the sake of his congregation. He even went so far as to suggest that no one would listen to him if he had holes in his shoes.
The scribes and Pharisees are still among us. Nowadays they try to disguise themselves as ministers of the Gospel, but even Satan appears as an angel of light. We need tto seek to have eyes that really see and ears that really hear. We need to look to, and listen to, Jesus for our example, not some "pastor" in a hand tailored suit. Jesus said that "Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head". Now you tell me which one is revealing the heart and mind of God.
My hometown paper, the Minneapolis Star Tribune this past week had several articles in it about a local pastor of a mega-Church who is being accused of making sweetheart financial deals through the Church. He's been preaching the so-called prosperity Gospel for years and his congregation numbers about 10,000. In the process, he's accumulated several homes in Florida, a vacation retreat in the lakes region of Minnesota, a Lexus, expensive clothing, and a private jet, which the Church sold to him and then leased back from him for more far more than what his payments on the plane contract are. His justification for this was that he preaches better when he's well dressed, so that he's really doing it for the sake of his congregation. He even went so far as to suggest that no one would listen to him if he had holes in his shoes.
The scribes and Pharisees are still among us. Nowadays they try to disguise themselves as ministers of the Gospel, but even Satan appears as an angel of light. We need tto seek to have eyes that really see and ears that really hear. We need to look to, and listen to, Jesus for our example, not some "pastor" in a hand tailored suit. Jesus said that "Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head". Now you tell me which one is revealing the heart and mind of God.
16 February, 2007
The Gospel for Today 16 February, 2007
And one of the scribes came up and heard them disputing with one another, and seeing that he answered them well, asked him, "Which commandment is the first of all?" Jesus answered, "The first is, `Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one; and you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.' The second is this, `You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no other commandment greater than these." And the scribe said to him, "You are right, Teacher; you have truly said that he is one, and there is no other but he; and to love him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the strength, and to love one's neighbor as oneself, is much more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices." And when Jesus saw that he answered wisely, he said to him, "You are not far from the kingdom of God." And after that no one dared to ask him any question. (Mark 12:28-34 RSV)
Love the Lord, & love your neighbor. Sounds pretty simple, doesn't it? Unfortuantely, when you move from the theorhetical to the actual, it always seems to get more complicated. But it shouldn't have to be any more conplex. As Martin Luther wrote in his great hymn, "A Mighty Fortress", "the Spirit and the gifts are ours". And we also have the model of Jesus' life to follow. Now if we could only get rid of all that pesky pride and self-will...
Love the Lord, & love your neighbor. Sounds pretty simple, doesn't it? Unfortuantely, when you move from the theorhetical to the actual, it always seems to get more complicated. But it shouldn't have to be any more conplex. As Martin Luther wrote in his great hymn, "A Mighty Fortress", "the Spirit and the gifts are ours". And we also have the model of Jesus' life to follow. Now if we could only get rid of all that pesky pride and self-will...
15 February, 2007
The Gospel for 15 Feb, 2007
And they sent to him some of the Pharisees and some of the Hero'di-ans, to entrap him in his talk. And they came and said to him, "Teacher, we know that you are true, and care for no man; for you do not regard the position of men, but truly teach the way of God. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not? Should we pay them, or should we not?" But knowing their hypocrisy, he said to them, "Why put me to the test? Bring me a coin, and let me look at it." And they brought one. And he said to them, "Whose likeness and inscription is this?" They said to him, "Caesar's." Jesus said to them, "Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's." And they were amazed at him. And Sad'ducees came to him, who say that there is no resurrection; and they asked him a question, saying, "Teacher, Moses wrote for us that if a man's brother dies and leaves a wife, but leaves no child, the man must take the wife, and raise up children for his brother. There were seven brothers; the first took a wife, and when he died left no children; and the second took her, and died, leaving no children; and the third likewise; and the seven left no children. Last of all the woman also died. In the resurrection whose wife will she be? For the seven had her as wife." Jesus said to them, "Is not this why you are wrong, that you know neither the scriptures nor the power of God? For when they rise from the dead, they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven. And as for the dead being raised, have you not read in the book of Moses, in the passage about the bush, how God said to him, `I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob'? He is not God of the dead, but of the living; you are quite wrong." (Mark 12:13-27 RSV)
Render to Ceasar that which belongs to Ceasar and to God that which belongs to God. All good gifts around us come from God and ultimately Ceasar owns nothing that God didn't own first, by Divine Right. So ultimately, we owe everything to God and there is nothing left over for Ceasar. How then should we, as Christians, respond when Ceasar demands that we pay for all manner of means to subjugate, enslave, torture, or kill our fellow men? Perhaps along with the Catholic Worker, we should declare that "Our Manifesto is the Sermon on the Mount", and let Ceasar fend for himself.
Render to Ceasar that which belongs to Ceasar and to God that which belongs to God. All good gifts around us come from God and ultimately Ceasar owns nothing that God didn't own first, by Divine Right. So ultimately, we owe everything to God and there is nothing left over for Ceasar. How then should we, as Christians, respond when Ceasar demands that we pay for all manner of means to subjugate, enslave, torture, or kill our fellow men? Perhaps along with the Catholic Worker, we should declare that "Our Manifesto is the Sermon on the Mount", and let Ceasar fend for himself.
14 February, 2007
The Gospel of the Day
And they came to Jericho; and as he was leaving Jericho with his disciples and a great multitude, Bartimae'us, a blind beggar, the son of Timae'us, was sitting by the roadside. And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out and say, "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!" And many rebuked him, telling him to be silent; but he cried out all the more, "Son of David, have mercy on me!" And Jesus stopped and said, "Call him." And they called the blind man, saying to him, "Take heart; rise, he is calling you." And throwing off his mantle he sprang up and came to Jesus. And Jesus said to him, "What do you want me to do for you?" And the blind man said to him, "Master, let me receive my sight." And Jesus said to him, "Go your way; your faith has made you well." And immediately he received his sight and followed him on the way. (Mark 10:46-52 RSV)
Each of us in blind in some manner, to some one, or to some need. The secret to good spiritual health is to know to ask Jesus, when we encounter Him, (in Word, in Sacrament, in our brothers and sisters), to restore our sight that we too might follow Him on the way.
Each of us in blind in some manner, to some one, or to some need. The secret to good spiritual health is to know to ask Jesus, when we encounter Him, (in Word, in Sacrament, in our brothers and sisters), to restore our sight that we too might follow Him on the way.
(ar)Resting on Their Laurels
The Monday New York Times published a story about protesters staging Pray-Ins at two parishes the Roman Catholic Archdiocese was determined to close. At one of them several of the protesters were handcuffed and arrested by police for refusing to leave.
The Archdiocese determined that the parishes had to close, "to address demographic changes and a shortage of priests". I suspect there would be no shortage of priests if Rome determined that it was OK to go back to the practice of the undivided Church and allow for married men to be priests, as my own Catholic Apostolic National Church does. And demographics??? Jesus said "wherever two or three are gathered together in my name, there I will be in the midst of them". The only demographic that matter is, "where are the people?". We must bring Christ, the Church and the Sacraments to the People of God. We can't afford to sit and rest and wait for them to come and find us.
The Archdiocese determined that the parishes had to close, "to address demographic changes and a shortage of priests". I suspect there would be no shortage of priests if Rome determined that it was OK to go back to the practice of the undivided Church and allow for married men to be priests, as my own Catholic Apostolic National Church does. And demographics??? Jesus said "wherever two or three are gathered together in my name, there I will be in the midst of them". The only demographic that matter is, "where are the people?". We must bring Christ, the Church and the Sacraments to the People of God. We can't afford to sit and rest and wait for them to come and find us.
13 February, 2007
Introduction
It seems that nowadays everyone has a blog. Even me. Welcome to my place to sound off on whatever happens to be bugging, cheering, puzzling, or intriguing me. The title here is 'borrowed' from the title of a book by one of my spiritual forebears, C.S. Lewis. It was the title of the story of his conversion from atheism to orthodox Christianity. He was suprised by joy when he discovered the person of Jesus at the center of history and enthroned in his life. I hope that we can find some of that same joy expressed here.
Although I'm a Bishop of the Church, I don't claim to have all the answers to all of life's great mysteries and questions. I believe that Christ ultimately does, though. As the Scripture says, "in Him we live and move and have our being." Your comments, insights, questions, hopes, fears, and joys will always be welcome here. Perhaps together we can find some of the answers we don't yet have.
Pax Dei tecum!
Although I'm a Bishop of the Church, I don't claim to have all the answers to all of life's great mysteries and questions. I believe that Christ ultimately does, though. As the Scripture says, "in Him we live and move and have our being." Your comments, insights, questions, hopes, fears, and joys will always be welcome here. Perhaps together we can find some of the answers we don't yet have.
Pax Dei tecum!
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