In our times, there is endless discussion about facial coverings. We are urged to wear them and guard against unwittingly breathing contagious aerosols as we speak. Some debate the science. Others argue for freedom of choice, although it's hard to choose freedom from other people's pathogens if they are choosing to spread them.
"Social media" of the 4th Century was full of opinions about Jesus' nature. That was the big debate of the time. In the public square, at the barber shop, in contentious family dinners, people were espousing their views about whether attributing full divinity to Jesus made him less than fully human.
The Nicene Creed eventually emerged (skipping over many details here) as the authoritative statement of orthodox faith about Jesus, clearly proclaiming his full humanity and personhood as part of the Trinity since before time. This is why it is recited at Sunday Eucharist. We are identifying ourselves as a branch on the family tree of (in Communion with) those who crafted it.
As we have returned to use of Morning Prayer for our Sunday worship during the pandemic, we say the older Apostles' Creed, which is always included with the Daily Office readings. It wastes no words. Which sparks curiosity about why it bothers to say that Jesus now sits "at the right hand of the Father." In Bible-speak, the right hand signifies strength and honor (sorry, lefties). This is a small reminder that the grace revealed in Jesus is God's strength. May grace be our strength as well.
Pastor Kathleen Kelly,
Interim Rector
Dispute on the Confession
of Faith by Vasily Perov, oil on canvas, 1881
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