Its interesting to watch the faces of parishioners as I preach. I wonder about the successes and pain, the laughter and sorrows which might have accompanied the week's experience into which I am speaking. It is, in the end, the space between their ears which forms the fertile field of formation for the precepts of Christ I'm charged to preach.
Today's sermon was all about God as "Father". It was a fun sermon to preach, because I got to talk about my kids, but tough because so many people have pain in their lives when it comes to the idea of "Daddy". For me, I am blessed with a Dad who loves me; but I stand at the point of hope on the behalf of those who would dare hope once more upon the love of an Almighty, compassionate God.
Indeed, in the end, there is nothing new under the sun (thank you, Qoheleth); and the struggle of children to deal with their experiences in the families of origin is nothing new... but today, I preached into that struggle, and I wonder with concern for my people. If only we might embrace God as He reveals Himself to be... willingly laying aside our own detrimental experiences and biases... wouldn't that be something!
The faces race through my mind, and my heart prays silent prayers after the last notes have sounded, and the final offerings of communion have been taken. And that is what runs through the space between my ears in the hours after... just in case you might have wondered.
May the blessings of Christ be abundantly upon you today!
John
No comments:
Post a Comment
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and comments with me! I look forward to hearing how God is moving and shaping your life even as He is mine!