Word to the Wise
Monday, January 21, 2013 - Monday in the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time
[Heb 5:1-10 and Mark 2:18-22]No one takes this honor upon himself but only when called by God...
I am writing this near the huge shrine of OUr Lady of San Juan in the southern tip of Texas! The words from the Letter to the Hebrews quoted above are very much in evidence to me in the large group of Permanent Deacons and spouses for whom I preached a retreat this past weekend. Their stories of being "called by God" are inspiring! They came from all kinds of backgrounds, educational or social. One has a PhD, another came from migrant labor background. God's call and the gifts of the Spirit are truly divrse.
The entire passage from Hebrews is drawing a distinction between the temple high priest and Jesus' own high priesthood, but those of us who recognize Jesus' unique priesthood can also recognize the situation of the temple high priest. We do have to offer sacrifice on behalf of ourselves and the people. Indeed the people have to do this for us as well! Those called to ordained service do not "self-call." We must BE called, as the text points out. Therefore we are always in need of the prayers and support of those whom we serve. I know that I could not do what I do unless I experienced that support, which is part of God's grace at work through others. The Beloved Congregation enables me and calls me every day. AMEN