This morning in worship I shared the story of this blog's beginnings. In truth it exists, but no one knows where it is. It occured to me that I approach things cautiously, but once I'm in, I'm in. I'm not sure when or where along the journey I began to trust the presence of the Spirit; I only know that it is still an uneven trust. I tried to convey today my sense that courage comes from that trust and is manifested in the ways we represent God's compassion, mercy, grace and justice toward all people. Courage is acting in ways that offer life to others even when our own security is at risk. While I pointed to rescue workers, firefighters and police officers as examples of true courage, some people only heard the reference I made to politicians who are taking unpopular stands on the current debate on Marriage Equality in Vermont. No matter where you stand on that issue, the question at heart is how your actions represent the justice, grace, mercy and compassion of God. The truth is, each of us must answer that question for our own actions. I cannot determine whether someone else is right or wrong; I can only pray that what I do reflects those realities. My faith and my relationship to God must guide me.
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I am delighted you have started this blog. It should lead to many interesting discussions. As you stated in your sermon, it is important to recognize the "silent" people of courage. Individuals who do things in the name of faith and/or justice must have a strong faith and remarkable humility. They never receive the accolades given to those who are publicly acclaimed for their courage. Although we don't know who they are, we all know they are among us.
ReplyDeleteDick,
ReplyDeleteSpeaking of "courage" I'm glad that you've finally at long last put your thoughts on the web... I'm sure they will be as good as your sermons. God speed in this new chapter.
Faye