Friday, August 21

Today’s Readings: Psalm 80; 2 Samuel 23:1-17; Mark 12:1-11; Acts 28:1-10; Psalm 89:26-52

I was sitting with a church group recently as they were debating an issue of import. Like any important issue, the topic under discussion was complex and had political overtones. As the group processed the issue, they were hesitant to take action because they were worried the course of action might seem biased to some and might upset people. I was cast in the role of the observer that night, but as I listened I thought to myself: “Where along the way did we pick up the notion that our faith out to be comfortable and well received by all? When do we forget that the reign of God is going to be offensive to some and seen as something that must be silenced?” Let’s face it: there are many, many folks out there who cannot accept the Gospels’ assertion that God loves all people and desires to live in relation with all people. Sadly, some find this message totally offensive and reject its premise. No matter how hard we may try to make that message palatable, they will reject such a message outright. The words from today’s Gospel reading reminded me of the radical nature of the Gospel. Jesus himself reminds us of this when he quoted Psalm 118:22: “The stone that the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone” (from the NRSV). So where are you at with all of this? Are you seeking to live out a faith that is completely safe and acceptable to all; or are you pursuing a Gospel that will shake things up and be rejected by some – ever some of the builders? Til next time…