There is no them

Today’s Gospel (Luke 15:1-10) contains two little parables, one of which is well known.   The depiction of Jesus and the lost sheep is a favorite of many artists. Those of you who have been down to my office may have seen this icon. I love this icon.  I love the way Jesus is looking at the person looking at him.  And I love the sheep, who I believe has had a  rambunctious and uncertain  journey, is now resting contently knowing the safety of Jesus' shoulders. Such depictions are often referred to as “Jesus the Good Shepherd”, and until this week I have always thought of it as such. And yet it illustrates a touch of misunderstanding here:   “I am the Good Shepherd” is a text from John’s Gospel.   It is one of the seven “I am” statements found only in that Gospel.   That’s a sermon for another day. The story of seeking the lost sheep from the flock of 100 is a different, only Matthew and Luke story, and in Luke’s version the unique lost coin parabl...

It is so wonderful to finally be here!   This has been a long journey to this moment for us all.   Ever since The Rev. David Sugeno announced plans to retire, Trinity Marble Falls has had the dual purpose of celebrating where you are and preparing for where you are going. It was January when I first saw the posting for Trinity Marble Falls, read the profile, and viewed the website.   I quickly felt a draw to explore the possibility of what we could do together:   in large part to your clear articulation of core values and narrative on what you hoped for in a Rector.   I now know that these statements were developed in your Holy Cow Survey work, and were intentionally crafted for use by Trinity.   And you should know that I was struck by the word cacophony!!!   (Well done Jenny Waldo!!!) My first task, required of any priest seeking a position in The Diocese of Texas, was to list three reasons why I would be a good fit for this particular call.   I...

When a preacher talks about a Gospel that is unique from the others, they are often talking about The Gospel of John. Today, however, it is Luke’s Gospel that does something different.   There is little doubt that Luke takes a number of things from Mark’s Gospel, and makes changes.   “Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” is a question from Mark’s chapter 10 , asked by a wealthy man.   Luke changes the man to “an expert in the law,” and then asks the man what is written in the law.   His reply is what Jesus says in Mark’s 12th chapter, where it is Jesus answering the question of a faithful scribe.   Luke then tells us that the expert in the law wants to vindicate himself, and asks “and who is my neighbor?” This brings us to the well known story found only in Luke’s Gospel .   It is so well known that it has firmly settled into our language. A good Samaritan had a set of jumper cables to restart my car. A good Samaritan helped me carry things ...