Fringes
Imagine for a moment that you have superhuman powers that can only be used to help others.
Above all, maintain constant love for one another, for love covers a multitude of sins. Be hospitable to one another without complaining. Like good stewards of the manifold grace of God, serve one another with whatever gift each of you has received. - 1 Peter 4:8-10
Last night, we went to Christ Church in Greenwich to hear Father Gregory Boyle speak about his work with gang members in L.A.
He has been doing this amazing work for over 35 years, and during that time, he told us he has worked with thousands of young men and women who sought his help to change their lot in life.
Many have, but some have slipped back over and over again. He has buried over 220.
He told us that this talk is not something we come to, but something we go from, into the world, to the fringes where people are alone and in need of love.
He used to see what he does as serving those in need, but over the years he has learned that the ministry is one of building kinship, with both sides learning from each other.
He said that he believes we get he whole idea of coming together to praise God wrong. The type of praise God wants is not for Him, but for one another, loving and connecting with each other.
This is the mission Jesus gave us, and it is what we often fall far short of doing.
If we truly want to please God, we should be extending our circle to be all inclusive.
That is the message of the Gospel, the reason God cam among us. Boyle and his Homeboy Industries are examples of how we can change lives, ours and others.
If you haven't read his book, Tattoos on the Heart, check it out. The stories will make you laugh and make you cry, tears of sorrow and tears of joy.
And think about how all of us can widen the circle, so no one is left out.
More to come...