ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
May 24, 2025
As many of you know, I have several food allergies. Recently, I visited a city that had a fantastic bakery dedicated to Bruce. Actually, they need more than just me to stay open, although I probably bought more items than I should have. But they were so good! The first item I had was a gluten-free, dairy-free cinnamon crunch cupcake. Double Yum! I probably snarfed it down a bit more quickly than I should have, but I enjoyed each bite, and even my wife said that she could not believe they were missing gluten and dairy. Though we had wandered through some stores and interacted with a number of people after enjoying our first round of treats, when I got to the car and glanced in the mirror, I had the face of a two-year-old who had enjoyed a piece of birthday cake. I had frosting on my face, and not just a little hint. It was just a bit embarrassing, yet the embarrassment was eclipsed by just how good the cupcake was. The only disappointment was that I had wasted some of it on my face.
In Romans 1:16, the Apostle Paul speaks of preaching the Gospel and not feeling ashamed. Although he doesn’t explicitly use the word “embarrassed,” the message conveys a similar sentiment. The Gospel of love, when it drips from our lips, will be ridiculed by many who will suggest that it is weak and ineffective. It would be easy to understand how someone might feel embarrassed or ashamed in such a moment, yet the life of Jesus encourages us to stay the course and not only feast on the Gospel but to invite others to enjoy it as well.
Thank you, Jesus! Thank you for reminding us to remain strong and bold, in spite of those who will seek to silence us with accusations that might leave some reeling and ashamed. Amen.
