Designed for Battle
Luis, Shirley and John
We are a rebellious lot aren't we?
For all of my life, or at least for all I can remember, people have been protesting, marching, battling against injustice in all forms.
What is amazing is that regardless of whether we believe this rebellion has been productive or not, we continue to fight for what we believe in, against all odds.
Whether they hear or refuse to hear (for they are a rebellious house), they shall know that there has been a prophet among them. - Ezekiel 2:5
In today's reading, the prophet Ezekiel is charged by God to go out and face this rebellious nature of man, speaking the words he was given, becoming a lone voice in a wilderness of stubbornness and self-determination.
I like to think that since we were made in the image of God, there is a reason we have this rebellious nature. Are we built to resist authority? Are we designed for battle?
It would explain a lot wouldn't it?
For one thing, it would explain why God continues to put up with us, despite our insolence and disobedience. Perhaps he forgives us because he has given us that spirit to rage against injustice, even when it means we target Him as the one who is at fault.
So, what do we do with this battle engine He has given us?
Do we take to the streets to fight for the rights of the oppressed? Do we stand up for ourselves and others in the workplace when we feel we are judged wrongly?
Do we channel our energy into working toward a solution to the problems we see?
What does God want us to do?
Tomorrow, three deacons will be ordained in the Episcopal Diocese of New York at the Cathedral of Saint John the Divine in Manhattan. They are Luis, Shirley and John.
Like Ezekiel, they will take the Word out to the people, and they will serve those who may be rebellious and unreceptive.
They will need the strength of the Spirit to guide them and direct their own gifts and skills toward the right and just road that is the light.
They will also come back to the Church community and share what they experience in the world, so all of us may come to see and hear the word of the people.
They will through their faith, move mountains of indifference to make a difference in the world, and we, all of us, need to support them in that awesome ministry.
Pray for them and for all who rebel against the enemies of God and His mission here on earth.
Let the words of my (their) mouth(s) and the meditation(s) of my (their) heart(s) be acceptable to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. - Psalm 19:14
Luis, Shirley and John, our prayers go with you as you begin this amazing journey.
More to come...