Sunday, January 17, 2016

Meditation for January 17, 2016

John 2:4 Jesus said to her, “Woman, what concern is that to you and to me? My hour has not yet come.”

"I started attending St. Lydia’s, a small church that combines liturgy with dinner, shortly after I moved to New York City. A few weeks after my first visit, I was helping lead services. I typically don’t enjoy speaking in front of groups, but the pastor asked, and I didn’t mind giving it a try. A couple of years later, when we needed volunteers for the Leadership Table (our vestry), I stepped up. It felt natural, given that I was already involved and present at many of the community meetings where decisions were made." writes Jeremy Sierra, editor in chief for Trinity, Wall Street.

I wonder if that’s how Jesus felt. He was already present at the wedding, already known to the community. It wasn’t his plan to change water into wine, but that didn’t really matter. His friends needed help, and he had help to offer.

Needless to say, I do not have the abilities of Jesus, but I do surprise myself from time to time as I take on leadership roles. I have talents that my church and other groups can use. I simply have to be willing to offer what gifts I have where they are needed.

Almighty God our heavenly Father, you declare your glory and showe forth your handiwork in the heavens and in the earth: Deliver us, we pray, in our various occupations from the service of self alone, that we may do the work which you have given us to do in truth and beauty and for the common good; for the sake of him who came among us as one who serves, your Son Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.