A Bit Harsh
A Bit Harsh
Do you ever wish Jesus were a bit more polite? It sounds a bit sacrilegious, I know. The disciples thought this way on occasion. Sometimes they tried to help Jesus a bit, by informing him that he may be offending the Pharisees, for example.
In our Gospel reading this week, Jesus sounds a bit...harsh. He informs us that servants should not expect to be thanked by their masters, but rather admit their unworthiness.
Yet, it is important to interpret Jesus' words carefully. As modern Americans, we don't take naturally to the language of servants and masters, and we are inclined to expect rewards frequently.
But Jesus' culture of discipleship is refreshingly free from entanglements, mixed motives, hidden obligations, and manipulation. In contrast to many of those around him, his agenda was not distorted by false notes, but was clear, compassionate, truthful, kind, and good.
Jesus was not cozy with false motives, but neither was he dismissive of anyone who sought him, regardless of the reason. His invitation to join him as servants in his Kingdom of God movement ushers us into forgiveness and reconciliation, fruitfulness, collaboration, and purpose.
Polite? I don't know. Good? Beyond imagination! I look forward to exploring this more together with you on Sunday.
Steve E+
Children’s Formation Volunteers:
We are in great need of once-a-month volunteers to help in children’s formation (the class that takes place Sundays during the sermon, Nicene Creed, and Prayers of the People). We need those who can teach our curriculum, and those who can simply help—our children’s safety protocols require at least two adults in each class. This is a great opportunity for couples to serve together. Contact Karissa (karissa.simmons@redeemerannapolis.org).
Seeking Our Neighbors’ Flourishing Together
We have the opportunity to participate in a group project at Historic London Town and Gardens, Saturday, October 15, 10AM-1PM. The work will include: trail building (laying gravel paths, edging, stabilizing); invasive removal (removing ivy, bamboo, or other seasonal weeds); and, site restoration (restoring an area back to the way it was through invasive removal and bed amendments. It’ll be fun to work together. You can register online here.
If Saturday doesn’t work for you, there are also weekday options available for individuals. Contact Patrick (patrick.finn@redeemerannapolis.org).
1082 Epping Forest Road, Annapolis
Please continue in prayer daily for our Vestry’s discernment as we consider this property as the potential site for Redeemer’s permanent home. Also, go by and look it over and tell us what you think.
Second Sunday Sandwiches
Sunday, October 9 following worship
Redeemer Vestry Meeting
Sunday, October 9 following Second Sunday Sandwiches
Picture credit: Adi Goldstein on Unsplash