Those words could have described this past weekend. Whether we wanted to hear about it or not, the Zimmerman trial was in front of us. No matter what the verdict ended up being, the whole situation reflected some dark problems that permeate our culture and world today: polarization, racism, violence, incivility. The whole situation has been, since the beginning, disturbing and depressing. The worst of times. All so sad. What is the answer? With the verdict finally given, what next? In fact, that's what the headlines on Sunday's paper read: "He's free. Now what?" What happened was a combination of, and has contributed to, the polarization, racism, violence and incivility that all seems to rule the day.
But then....as we gathered to worship today, something very different was happening. There was another Word which permeated that time and place where we were. It was a Word spoken, a Word offered in the waters of Baptism as we celebrated the Baptism of Bradley James Rahjes, a Word given in bread and wine. A Word which alone can overcome the polarization, racism, violence and incivility that surround us. It is a Word of grace, mercy, forgiveness, love. It's a Word that calls us to be a neighbor to those in need, because WE are those who have been in the ditch and in need. And for us, Jesus didn't pass by, but crossed the road to bind up our wounds and make us whole. The best of times!
For me, there was a huge difference in how I felt, and what the world looked like, between when I first arrived at church, and when I left. For while there, I heard that other Word and was surrounded by others, young and old, white and black, male and female, who also hear and live by that Word of Life, which is stronger than all those other forces which hurt and destroy us. And it's that other Word which gives us hope, and strength and courage to live differently, and not be overcome by the darkness that surrounds us. I can't think of a better way to spend a Sunday morning (or Saturday evening), and was so grateful to be home again on this particular weekend, after our 3 week vacation.
Looking ahead to next weekend, our "Summer Intergenerational Choir" will be singing again at worship. This choir is made up of anyone who comes at 8:30am to work on a piece that will be sung at our 9:30am service. Last month, the choir was made up of members from 7 to 97 years old...and it sounded great! How about you being a part of it this coming weekend!?
This is just another way to hear and celebrate that Word of Life which we so desperately need to hear, and which can turn the worst of times into the best of times.
See you in church. Pastor Jack + www.oursaviorelca.com
