Word to the Wise
Friday, May 22, 2015 - 7th Week of Easter - Fri
[Acts 25:13b-21 and John 21:15-19]"Amen, amen, I say to you, when you were younger, you used to dress yourself and go where you wanted; but when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go." [John]
Like many in the Beloved Congregation, I suspect, I view "growing older" with mixed feelings. The poet says, "Come, grow old with me. The best is yet to come." That may be good theology, but I'm not 100% sure about the rest! The twenty-first chapter of the Gospel of John is called by scripture scholars, the "Johannine Appendix." (Mark has one, too.) Today's gospel scripture is taken from it and the scene features a post-resurrection appearance of Jesus that is clearly "tacked on" to the rest of the gospel, but at a very early date because it shows up in all the important manuscripts. I am glad for it because at 72 years of age, the sentence I have quoted is one that sticks around in my mind and heart.
Jesus is speaking to Peter. He has already challenged Peter's love for him three times (matching the three denials earlier?). Tradition has it that Peter was crucified (upside down!) because of the "stretch out your arms" words. The lines carry their own impact because we all know from experience with our own aging or that of our parents that we will need help dressing and may have to submit to the wishes of others. Those who struggle with Alzheimer's, whether as a patient or as a caretaker, know this well. In the end, Jesus simply says to Peter, "Follow me." That has to be the "mantra" for growing older. AMEN