Lent reflections: Tuesday, March 18, 2014 Isaiah 1:2-4, 16-20; Psalm 50: 7-15, 22-24; Matthew 23:1-12 Come now, let us argue it out, says the LORD: though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be like snow; though they are red like crimson,they shall become like wool. If you are willing and obedient, you shall eat the good of the land; but if you refuse and rebel, you shall be devoured by the sword; for the mouth of the LORD has spoken. (Isaiah 1:18-20) Think with me of this call to reconciliation as being sealed both with a handshake and an embrace. The church calendar, like the seasons of the year, with slight and abrupt variations, turns us back toward loved ones and neighbors, creating encounters and opportunities for tightening or mending relationships we can use or avoid. On a thoughtful way to Holy Week, Lent is a quiet cul de sac set with benches that allow us to see ourselves coming and going. Sitting here offers a chance to ask the questions: Do I really like what I see of myself? Have I not been pushing against the restraints of both my human and spiritual nature? On occasion inwardly and also outwardly, even altogether kicking the traces, giving rein to an unlikeable self? Have I not left behind the simple comfort of sweet clean hay, community sounds, the familiar and easy yoke... and for what? As I think this way, Someone sits uninvited on the bench beside me. “Lets talk about it,” He says. And we do. I begin to know where this is going to end: a strong masculine handshake and then a standing long embrace, which I suddenly, deeply want. But here in public? If He is not ashamed of being seen with me, how can I be ashamed of being held by Him? Stan and Francis Hirtle have been associated with St. James’ for over thirty years. Stan is ordained in the Disciples of Christ tradition, and is the retired pastor of the church next door to St. James’.
Posted on: Tue, 18 Mar 2014 14:40:17 +0000
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