Disciples, Apostles, and Saints!
As our lectionary continues to push us to see the dignity in our neighbors, to note the way others are treated, to love them with the same fuel and intensity we offer our own survival, then doubling down on the character of Jesus’s followers — that they (and each us) is uniquely suited (and dare I say obligated?) to participate in that active loving, that compassion and support for others? Oof! So what does that actually look like?
A lot like the work we do in our neighborhood and wider community. Caring for those experiencing food insecurity and homelessness and advocating for their greater care and support. It is also the wrestling we do individually, with the care of the people who walk through our doors or drive through the alley to receive food from Manna from Seven.
It can mean supporting one another when we speak up for the welfare of others. Because that can be scary work. Or working with others to create a common voice, as our bishop did with 153 of her colleagues as they wrote a joint letter of hope. (Here’s a video: https://youtu.be/XAMPRZViBns?si=bYOS_QLqz1V6EOyr)
And it can mean just showing up. Showing up with faith. With joy and love and a compassionate heart. To be willing to expand the circle. That our stories, our future, the kin-dom starts now. With us. At our annual meeting. In church. Wherever two or three are gathered as followers, dreamers, co-creators of a new world, a people reborn. Faith restored. Community rebuilt. And love ruling all.
With love,
Drew+
