Our bishop has asked that we celebrate this coming Sunday by reading the Episcopal Church's appointed lessons for Independence Day. While we will be surrounded by the familiar sounds of fireworks that shake the sky and concerts that build toward triumphant finales, the texts we will hear on Sunday measure greatness differently.
In Deuteronomy, God reminds Israel that strength is shown in mercy toward the stranger; The author of Hebrews speaks of people of faith who lived as wanderers; Psalm 145 is a song to the God whose generosity is for all. In the gospel reading, Jesus calls us to a radical hospitality by loving those we don’t understand.
We love the spectacles of July 4th. Fireworks and parades. Celebrations. And the readings for this Sunday to practice a quieter kind of greatness. They remind us to continue the courageous work of hospitality, welcome, and kindness.
See you Sunday,
Father Karl