A Poor Excuse

What to do about the growing number of persons who have “fallen through the cracks?” That phrase, which gets spoken frequently in description of the impoverished, forgotten, and marginalized, has intrigued me. Think about what it must be like to live as one in the cracks --- it would be stifling, tight, and one would feel pressed upon; one could see and hear the many passing by above you yet you remain unnoticed.

The media mania over Mitt’s latest mis-speak, does raise the question on how corporately and individually we relate and respond and resource the impoverished of our shared society.

This question prompts us to reflect on the role of government, acts of charity or acts of justice, and is it the sole…or soul…responsibility of the faith communities?

I am one who believes the social safety net is foundational to this nation; yes, I am a monogram democrat who supports the policies of FDR and LBJ.

In having this blog touch on politics let’s keep the good times rolling and move onto religion. For me, I cannot separate being a disciple of the Christ from the call to be with, stand with, and minister with persons who are poor.
I was once asked in my years of ministry (NOTE: I will be ordained 20 years this June) what has been the biggest surprise. My answer: How negatively congregations view the poor. My experience has been that folks would rather put money in the plate and food in a bag and keep a nice, safe distance then they would invite, welcome, and receive in community persons who are poor.

A closing story to think about: At one of the congregations where I served as pastor, we had an afterschool program for kids called KIDS CLUB. Kids would come for a meal, music, a study, and crafts. One year the theme for the KIDS CLUB was about hospitality and who we welcome and who we don’t and how to become a more hospitable congregation. For the closing session and meal, we asked the kids to come dressed as someone who they felt would not be welcomed in the congregation. Aside from the kid who came dressed as a bunny rabbit (you never reach everyone) the majority of the kids showed up dressed as poor people.

And, what does that say about us and what we must change to truly be a reflection of the One we follow?

sj;

Your serve

So, I'm sure you've all been waiting with grand enthusiasm to find out how I introduced myself to 5 total strangers without saying a word. Before, I share, I still would like to hear how you would do this...

Charged with the task of introducing myself without saying a word to five total strangers, I went to the first person on my left (I always go to the left), knelt down, and pantomimed washing her feet; I moved to the next person and did the same...and so on until I had "symbolically washed" each person's feet. Worked.

According to John's gospel, this was the symbolic act the Christ used to convey the call to disciples to practice humility and be in service --- he went to each of the disciples and washed their feet.

One of the most moving actions in my ministry has been the times when I have washed...really washed...the feet of another. I would always offer this before the Holy Thursday worship service. During Lent, (which begins on 22 February) I will share some stories from these feet-washing moments....yes, in case you're keeping track, that's another teaser...

In a society too often driven by arrogance and self-absorption, we would be wise to remember our call to humble service. For starters, let us begin with a good definition of humility. My favorite, and in my opinion, the best definition is from Sister Joan Chittister, OSB who defines humility as "a proper perspective of self in a universe full of wonders." The definition works because humility is not self-deprecating nor self-loathing; it really is about perspective.

Happy service!

sj;

A Fine Nine

It's official -- as of tonight, I have seen all of the nine Oscar nominated films. Admittedly, this is something I strive to do each year and this season's crop of movies is quite spectacular. How many have you seen? Get thee to the movies! There is still oodles of time before the 26 February 2012 Academy Awards show so get watching!

The final film on my list which I saw this evening was THE ARTIST. In a word it is a delight! I loved this film and I most highly recommend it. It is a throwback to the era of silent movies and is beautifully shot, creatively done, and a joy to watch! Like I said to a fellow movie patron on the way out of the movie, "If this film wins the Oscar it will make quite a statement..." (think about it....)

I am one who enjoys good dialogue and a well-written film and will frequently quote lines from favorite movies and I love a well-placed film line to brighten a conversation. However, THE ARTIST reminded me of how much I also enjoy a well-acted scene; those moments where the actors and their skill and the perfect background music make for a memorable and moving movie scene that stays with you.

Scenes that continue to move me are:
* the final meal together of the Benedictine community in the film, OF GODS AND MEN
* the silent cry of Sophie as her child is taken in the film, SOPHIE'S CHOICE
* the cutting away of weapons that had weighed down a life in the film, THE MISSION

There is an adage in screenwriting that is "If you can show it without saying it, do so." This may also be a helpful adage in our lives and efforts to connect with one another. I attended a retreat where we were grouped off in teams of 5 and instructed to introduce ourselves to one another without saying anything. A cool idea and one with impact. Think about it, how would you introduce yourself to a group of strangers without saying a word?

Let me know. Tomorrow, I'll tell you what I did....yes, that's what's known as a teaser.

sj;