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Dear friends:
Chris Hedges -- journalist, foreign correspondent, and graduate of Harvard Divinity School -- has written a fine book, Losing Moses on the Freeway. In it, he describes his rather difficult experience as a student pastor of a small Presbyterian Church in the worst neighborhood of Roxbury. The experience was so searing it catalyzed his move from the rigors of ministry to the comparative ease (his claim, not mine!) of journalism and international politics. “If you want to make God laugh,” he writes, “tell God your plans” (p. 19).
The Bible teaches a humble modesty in the face of the mystery that is God. It’s important, really, to be careful when naming the will and way of God. I confess to wishing that God’s (self?) appointed spokespersons were a little less sure of themselves, a little less sure of God’s politics and God’s opinions on complex human issues.
It’s also true that the Bible, from beginning to end, describes God’s favor for the vulnerable and the human opportunity to join God’s heart in this world by siding with those who need us.
This week’s scripture story has long been among my favorites. It’s refined, rich, and full intrigue. It also highlights the remarkable fortitude of five women who change the course of history by standing up to oppressive powers and engaging in a little civil disobedience on behalf of the vulnerable. I’ve enjoyed reading it again and understanding it in new light.
It will be another full and good Sunday at Covenant. Join us, and bring a friend.
Warmly,
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