Scripture: Luke 7:49 The other table guests began to say among themselves, “Who is this person that even forgives sins?”
Thought for the Day: I have been feeling this passage deep within me for the last 72 hours. What I mean is that I wonder about those who sit at the table and grumble about someone who has been given a seat or someone who has been shown hospitality or someone who has been offered grace. “My goodness – those people ruin the party.” I wonder how many of those who grumble and complain have never known what it is like to look longingly at an empty space at the table, only to hear: You are not welcome!
Many of our Methodist friends are hurting this day, and I pray for that wonderful historic tradition in this time of uncertainty. I know many LGBTQ clergy, church members and parents/grandparents of gay and lesbian children within the Methodist church who are struggling with the question of whether they can stay in their tradition. That’s excruciatingly painful. I know how much I love my tradition, and I cannot imagine walking away. So many of them thought they could see a place of welcome, only to feel as if the chair has been removed. As much as I want to say to anyone who is feeling lost, “Come and join us at Cypress Creek Christian Church,” I actually hope my United Methodist friends will stay and continue the difficult struggle. At the same time, there is only so much that a person can take. At some point, the feelings of rejection can build to the point where one loses all hope. For those folks, I pray that they find a new home or at least some respite where they no longer hear grumbling about their presence. Let’s be very clear – God does not grumble or complain about anyone who desires a seat at the table. God has made a place for all. It is the church that continues to turn people away.
Prayer: I pray this day for all who have been made to feel unwelcome in the body of love you created, O God of Mercy. The church is an amazing institution, but because it is an institution, it remains imperfect when it comes to modeling and revealing your love. Engage us once again with the life of Jesus that demonstrated the relentless and unconditional nature of your love. Amen.
