ten::twentytwo

(a homily)

Gathering here together this morning we receive a grand inheritance. Even if we find it hard to have faith, we are in the right place, for we are reminded by the Scripture and by the liturgy that God provides. God, though subtle the presence, is among us, in the Word, even in the one next to us, behind us, before us. The Holy Spirit, in us and in our brothers and sisters, gives us faith to believe, faith to help us become rich in what matters to God.

In other words, we are here because we recognize or are learning to recognize that we cannot provide for ourselves. We are here honestly and humbly seeking God, our true sustenance. We, like the bread and wine, need the descent of the Holy Spirit upon us to be made holy, to be made the body of Christ. As that Body we are able to leave behind possessions and live into the prophecy of Zechariah, to be a free people, holy and righteous in the sight of God. In light of our humble worship, we can speak truthfully and prophetically to a world bent on building destructive storehouses. In the Spirit's power we can do this with mercy and love.

And so, let us continue on here toward the table in prayerful hop and love. Let us open ourselves up to the power of the life-giving Spirit to the glory of God our Father and the Savior Jesus Christ, God's Holy and Righteous Son.

(Romans 4:20-25, Luke 1:69-75, Luke 12:13-21)