Jesus had a way of upsetting people, especially those who preferred a secure sense of order. In the gospel reading from Matthew 9 that we will hear on Sunday, Jesus calls a tax collector named Matthew. Why not someone more admirable or moral than that? Jesus brought healing to a woman who had been suffering for 12 years, who showed courage even though she might have felt ostracized. And Jesus raised a girl to life, even though skeptics made fun of him.
It makes me wonder — how would Jesus upset me today? How might Jesus dislodge you from some of the illusions you hold? There is such good news in the gospel as Jesus shows that God desires mercy, not sacrifice. And that very good news holds a challenge for us. How will we help to live that out? How will we fashion a world that prioritizes mercy?
Beloved St. Timothy people, Christ continues to enter into the confines of our lives with all that cramps our spirits to liberate us for a deeper and wider vision. I am glad that you keep pointing that way in your lives, and in all that you share. Blessings on your week ahead!
Peace,
Hans
Three Holy Days
In our tradition, we make space on Maundy Thursday to remember central parts of our faith story. We hear about the...
