I have been reading a book by Brian McLaren entitled The Secret Message of Jesus. The theme of this book is described as, "Could it be that the church has misunderstood or, in some cases, intentionally distorted Jesus’ core message? What if Jesus was right—but right in different ways than we ever realized?... " He poses some good questions and points out teachings that have been so taken for granted that we have forgotten their true meaning. One such observation deals with how we view those around us, and how we should view them in light of the kingdom of God:
"Jesus’ secret message in word and deed makes clear that the kingdom of God will be radically, scandalously inclusive. As we’ve seen, Jesus enjoys table fellowship with prostitutes and drunks, seeming to shift the locus of spirituality from the temple…to the table of fellowship and reconciliation. He affirms and responds to the faith of Gentiles—Romans and Syrophonecians and Samaritans. It takes a while for his followers to realize where this will lead, but eventually they get it: they realize that in the kingdom of God, they can no longer label people with old labels like male/female, Jew/Gentile, slave/free, rich/poor, Barbarian/Scythian, and so on. They must see people in a new light. When they see people as God’s creations, beloved by the King and welcome in the kingdom, they must open their hearts, homes, tables, and fellowship to everyone, without regard for old distinctions. That’s radical for everyone. …A new and unprecedented social reality is being created—a new realm, a new network of relationships, a new kingdom." The Secret Message of Jesus, page 94
I think that our Block Party fulfilled the spirit of that quote. So often we are in a community but not of that community. The Block Party was a good way to get us thinking about those right around us; to see them as people worthy of our attention. I am grateful for all the parish folk who came out to mingle with the community, for all those who worked so hard to make it happen, and for a good response by the community. Some would think we should have been more "evangelical" in our contacts. While there is room for improvement, the thrust was not to get new members. The goal was to simply BE with our neighbors. It is my belief that as we build relationships with others, opportunities will open up to share our faith and life with them in more meaningful ways and more conducive settings.
So THANK YOU to each one who helped make this part of our 150th anniversary celebration a success. A special thank you to Joan Miller and Linda Arguedas who did such a wonderful job organizing this event.
Blessings,
Fr. Terry
The Reverend Terrence Wible, Rector
