sunday WORSHIP

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Inspired by Mark 10:2-16

Among many of my experiences during my sabbatical time two summers ago, was the opportunity to be bathed in tradition and culture. In Italy that meant walking through the remains of the coliseum, while imagining gladiators fighting to the death in the ring while crowds in the seats cheered. What a chilling reminder this was how such cruelty to humanity was normalized. 

An excursion through what has been unearthed in ancient Pompei reveals the remains of many shops and dwellings. Artisans, bakers, butchers, barbers, brothels and even take out restaurants offered services in what were busy city streets. The streets themselves are still paved with stones. Telltale remnants clearly identify a people and an age. We were led to understand and appreciate what was a typical day in the life of a resident there, before Mount Vesuvius exploded and covered the city in ash in 79 CE. A peaceful city, totally destroyed in a matter of minutes.

The incredible history of the Roman Catholic church and its traditions prevails throughout Italy, especially in Rome and the Vatican. A history comes alive with strolls through cathedrals, and the Vatical museum. Famous names, famous places. The influence of the church, both past and present, visible on just about every corner. 

My traditions and cultural background were experienced in joyful ways, but not in Italy. In Scotland, a walk up to the Duart Castle (aka the McLean Castle) on a parade to greet the present chieftain and a tour of the ancient castle itself. It is still used as a residence while restoration continues. Participation in a tug of war, in my kilt and with bare feet. (My wife is incredulous that I would do such a thing). A Whisky tasting evening. (Single Malt if you please). Witnessing a reenactment of highland clan clashes. Real fish and chips!

Ah yes, that is my history. My family traditions are traced back there. 

It is not surprising that culture and traditions have influenced my family for generations. (Although I must admit I find it difficult to comprehend some of my distant relatives participating in some of the gruesome clan battles). Regardless, although a distant past, that is part of Ian Mclean’s past.

It was part of the past that brought the Disciples to question Jesus in Mark’s account. He was being tested to see how he would respond to traditional law, by asking him about an age-old question of divorce. In Moses’ time the ancient law provided for a man to get out of a relationship he really didn’t favour, simply by providing his wife with a certificate of divorce. 

Deuteronomy 24:1 “Suppose a man enters into marriage with a woman but she does not please him because he finds something objectionable about her, so he writes her a certificate of divorce, puts it in her hand, and sends her out of his house.

Jesus’ prophetic response is a challenge. “Because of your hardness of heart, he (Moses) wrote this commandment for you.” This was a concession to you because of your selfishness. Jesus goes on to say that a man who divorces his wife because she doesn’t, please him, or because he finds her objectionable is guilty of adultery. 

Jesus turns the tables around here. Just because it was customary to act in specific ways in the past doesn’t mean we act the same way in the present. 

Reinforcing his argument Jesus chastises the disciples for trying to prevent the children from coming to him. Like women, children we thought as less than, insignificant in society. I love Jesus’ response, “Let the children come to me; do not stop them, for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs.”

The kingdom of God belongs to such as these, any who come in innocence, any who come peacefully, any who come seeking truth and seeking love. Any who come in need. 

This makes me mindful that we all, at times, need to question our cultural biases and what we have learned over the years as our traditional understanding. 

When I first began working for Health Canada in the early 80’s, I’m embarrassed to admit I carried with me an understanding that our First Peoples all lived in squalor, that they were mostly unemployable, that most of the alcoholics on the street were indigenous. I understood that our First Peoples were all wards of the Federal Government, and it was our duty to look after them. That’s what my culture told me. 

I quickly came to know how ignorant I was and how judgmental I had become. There are many social issues on Indian reserves today, but a prouder, kinder and more spiritual fed people are hard to find. I was so very proud to serve them. 

As a young adult I came to understand that the unfortunate person laying on the sidewalk on the streets of Vancouver were the untouchables. The “unhoused” were alcoholics and drug addicts and they had brought the circumstances on themselves. Back them I didn’t pity them. The society I was a part of treated them as outcasts.

I didn’t see the pain and suffering, the physical, mental and sexual abuse that were the roots of the street experience. I didn’t understand the helpless who were self-medicating or those that suffered from chronic mental illness. 

I remember in my youth hearing racial slurs about Asians, Indigenous People, Muslims and others and not being phased. I remember hearing ethnic jokes and thinking they were funny. 

I don’t make any excuses for my bs’s, but I do understand a lot of my opinions were influenced by my environment and my circumstances. I was a privileged white kid in a predominantly white neighbourhood, born to middle class parents.

Thankfully I have grown past those early influences. I confess I still have to catch myself now and then, when for some reason I lean toward making a decision or coming to a conclusion before I know all the facts. That’s when I try to remember the gospel from today. 

It should go without saying that women today are treated equally in every way as men. Sadly, that is not the case in every country, but it is the case here. Jesus condemned the disrespect of women in his time, and he demands we do that now. 

Children are not slaves or commodities. They are God’s gifts to us and to the future. They are to be welcomed, cherished, adored and protected.

And the disenfranchised, mentally ill, abused, drug dependent, street person, or member of the LGTBQ2+ community are to be held and beloved just like any other. We are to love them as we love ourselves.

Thanks for listening this morning, Amen 

Inspired by Mark 8:27-38

Who Do You Say That I Am?I’m male, about 5’83/4 inches tall. I’m just a little over 71 (that’s 3 score + 11). Soaking wet I’m about 145 pounds (or 65.8 kg) last I checked, which surprised me. 

I have gained some weight since living in Peachland. It’s either the air or all those cookies I get from the B Bin. Living here agrees with me. 

I have grey hair, mostly balding. From what I have been told I have a nice-looking beard. I wear glasses. I have since I was 18 months old. That is my outside appearance.

On the inside most people tell me I have a good sense of humour, am generally fair-minded and mostly patient. I have been also told I have a gentle calming presence, which is nice to hear. I believe I am kind and generous. I think I am approachable, sensitive and most of the time a pretty good listener. 

I don’t think you would be surprised if I said I had a strong faith. I find the Creator’s ubiquitous gifts surrounding me, offering me confidence and assurance in life when I need it most. The Christ in me pushes my pursuit of justice, fairness and compassion. 

Who Do You Say That You Are?

You can all describe your outward appearance relatively easily. Perhaps you are tall, perhaps average height. Women know your shoe size, and your dress size. Men know their waist size but have no clue about their inside pant seam length. You know what you weigh (although some of you would rather not). And there is a whole bunch of other stuff you know about yourself.

But do you know who you are on the inside? How would we describe you? Mild mannered or feisty? Quiet and withdrawn or really eager and outgoing? Helpful, pastoral, kind, generous, thoughtful, sensitive, sincere, friendly?

I know you all possess those traits and more. You are a cadre of super caring individuals. And, while we all experience God and God’s spirit of love differently, I know you all possess a sense of awe and wonder about our creator. And you connect with that spirit of gentleness, the presence of compassion and love differently. But you do connect.

Who Do You Say That Jesus Is?

You all know Jesus. I can’t say how exactly, but you know the Christ as present in the here and now. It is a resurrected presence that wills us forward in solidarity to care for each other in an often-chaotic world, and for a people that are often broken. The Christ in us inspires us to be the good shepherds in society, the answer to a needed prayer, the antidote to heartache. 

We are here because we believe in Jesus. We know who he is. We strive to be like him. Sometimes though, as in today’s gospel, stories of his ministry might need little unravelling if we are to know him better, if we are to know him as we know ourselves.

As Jesus foretells of his death and resurrection, his disciples are shaken. That is not only because they will lose Jesus, but because Jesus implies, they have to follow him to the cross. The thought that “I have to die to serve,” troubled them, as it would deeply trouble all of us. 

Now here is one of those occasions when the literal translation of the text just doesn’t work. It may also be one of those reasons why more Peachlanders or neighbours don’t come and visit us. How do we explain this to a seeker, “you have to sacrifice everything, perhaps even your life to be a part of our church?” I don’t expect that would go over very well.

Mark’s words, 35 For those who want to save their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake, and for the sake of the gospel,[c] will save it, 36  doesn’t mean we march off to physical death. That just doesn’t make any sense. It means doing what is right in the world, risking our personal comfort, standing up for justice and behaving in every way as Jesus did. Perhaps more than anything, it means putting someone else first, rather than being self-serving. If you do as I do Jesus says, you will experience “The Holy” and know how God’s love can bring light to the darkest places on earth. 

Jesus speaks of losing and old life to a new one. Letting go of a tradition that was me orientated, dying to a new order.

When Jesus rebukes Peter with “Get behind me, Satan!” his meaning is, let go of your selfish and self-serving attitude. Your calling Peter is not about you and what you worry about, it is about doing justice and serving. “Do that and you follow me. Do that and you walk to the cross with me.” ”You need to let go of the past and adopt a new vision.”

Mark’s writing is about sacrifice, but not physical sacrifice. It is about living faithfully, caring for the broken, uplifting the underdog, being noticed, not shying away from controversy. 

The same “adulterous and sinful world” Mark speaks about in Jesus’ time exists now. Our living in faith means resisting the mistruths and negative energy trumped up to dissuade us. Somehow, I think Jesus knew that would happen. He understood mankind enough to know that there would always be the power seekers, the selfish and self-serving. 

“Get behind me Satan” – get behind me selfishness, ego, corruption, influence, bribery, favoritisms. 

There is a lot of talk these days about “Fake News.” Sometimes it’s difficult to determine what is fake and what is truth! But I can tell the difference between the two when it comes to Jesus. And so, my friends can you.

There are many mistruths, a lot of “fake news” about organized religion today, which is so very unfortunate. A lot of negative history, may I say, “bad theology,” or inappropriate interpretation of scripture, plus the quest for power and authority, has given the church a bad name. It also causes a great deal of confusion for those that might be looking for a faith community. 

I think our beliefs can be scrunched down very simply. First to say what we are not. We are not a place practicing active conversion of faith. We do not try and brainwash our members with promises that an omnipotent God makes. We don’t practice that God is “in-control,” selective, punitive or vengeful. 

Who are we then? We are straight forward folks who practice kindness and generosity. We don’t have huge egos that need to be stroked. We care about each other and our neighbours, and we do what we can to help them. We support this COF and do what we can do to help its ministry too, because we believe in the goodness it offers. While we are all really different on the outside, we try to be similar on the inside. We try to be like Jesus, Humble, Caring, Gentle and Loving 

Jesus asked, “Who do people say that I am?” They suggested, “John the Baptist, Elijah, one of the Prophets.” One even said the Messiah. 

But that was not Jesus’ mantra. Just a servant would be more like it. We know who he truly was, and we know who he truly is. We also know who we are and whose we are.

Thanks for listening this morning. Amen 

The Syrophoenician woman is a nobody. As far as society is concerned, she is among the lowest of class, a gentle from the wrong side of the tracks and to boot, a woman as well. She has no standing. Regardless, in her desperation for her daughter, she bows before Jesus asking him to cast out her daughter’s demon and heal her. 

This is a very intriguing gospel story for it is one of only a few where Jesus does not react in the way we expect. In fact, he is downright rude and unfeeling. His response to the woman’s plea is “Let the children be fed first, for it is not fair to take the children’s food and throw it to the dogs.” 

Until now Jesus’ ministry had primarily been among the Jews, to the people of Israel. Shocking as it might be his rebuke to the Syrophoenician woman can be interpreted to say, “I need first to preach and heal to the people of Israel. I’m not going to waste my time with others like you. I’m not going to throw spiritual food your way, it will be wasted.” And in fact, as impossible as it is to fathom, Jesus refers to the woman as a dog. 

That is rather astounding. Yes, it appears the humanness part of Jesus, like us, had something to learn. And he learned from a most unlikely source, an outcast woman who, with great courage and tenacity responded, “Sir,[b] even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs.”  Meaning, “Even the lowly need to be fed, even the outcast has need of love, kindness and generosity.”

I can visualize a rather stunned Jesus who suddenly realizes he has made a huge mistake. I’ve done that before. “Oh, dear, I have just guffawed rather badly, now what am I going to do?” Humbled, he tells the woman to go home, and she will find her daughter healed. 

The next part of this gospel talks about more of Jesus’ healing ways. Unfortunately, it offers no insight in what might have been Jesus’ reflection on events of that day. I would love to have some idea of how he felt. It is certain this changed his ministry, for as we know he became a passionate advocate for justice for all people. That is how we know Jesus best.

This encounter with Jesus is hugely important in our ministry together as well as in our individual life journeys. Part of that is because we know that Jesus was fallible, and he made mistakes. It is important too because he understood that he could learn from human interactions. He wasn’t always the teacher. More so, at least for me, is the commitment to justice and the bravery of the mother in our story. It would have taken considerable courage to question Jesus’ judgement given his status.

Sometimes our discipleship as believers calls us to risk a great deal. Often, we can be intimidated by that. Perhaps this might be because we lack confidence. Perhaps it might be because we feel we are too ordinary to make an impact, too insignificant to be taken seriously.

But God doesn’t believe you are ordinary, God believes you are special and gifted. God believes you are all like the Syrophoenician woman, bold, courageous, and inspiring.

Labeling us as “nobodies” is not really fair. But we are really quite ordinary. We are not among the elite of society. We don’t rub elbows with the rich and famous. Most of us live comfortably, but we don’t have million-dollar annual incomes, own yachts, or private jets. We don’t have estates with manicured grounds, security guards, butlers and maids. We are not influential philanthropists or politicians. As fortunate as we are to be Peachlanders or Westbankers, we are typical folk, not the creme de la crème. 

But the crème de la crème doesn’t do the bulk of “works” as James talks about in his letter Shirley Mae read from. You, regular folk are among those who would accept a stranger into our midst, regardless of their appearance. You are the people who would welcome someone hard on their luck to join us during our fellowship hour. And you would offer them coffee and goodies. 

You have ears for the broken and a heart for the lonely. You have empathy for the addict passed out in the supermarket doorway. You would give your seat to someone more needy on the bus and offer a few coins for a hot meal. You are not persuaded by glamour or riches. You are not inclined to self-righteous behaviour or superiority. 

Those of us who might be ordinary, the humble servants, understand what James was saying. Our faith is made visible by our actions. We may be without status, even as the lowly Syrophoenician woman. But we always have a part to play in advancing the kin-dom that the Creator so desires for us all. 

And that gives us the permission to question and challenge the actions of others, and even authority when it is appropriate to do so. The unconscionable behaviour of our churches and the Canadian Government for the Residential School crises needed to be challenged. And it was. So too does its lack of action on the 60’s scoop and missing and murdered indigenous women. 

Governments that would change legislation outlawing abortion and gay rights do irreparable harm and need to be challenged too. Racism, sexism and ageism might not be experienced in Peachland or Westbank, but they are elsewhere, and that is unacceptable. And today, as we recognize the first Sunday of Creation Time, let’s try to be tolerant of tree huggers, individuals that protest fracking, and groups that rally for climate justice. 

These objectors and the Syrophoenician women of the world have something important to say. They may be relative nobody’s, but they speak truth to power and are God’s voice in the world. And so, my friends are you. 

Remember that if you ever feel insignificant, God knows otherwise. Thanks for listening this morning. Amen

  Inspired by Amos 7:7-15

Those who would like to control people and the world around them believe themselves to be “big shots.” They understand themselves to be leadership material. They enjoy “strutting about” and bathe in the glory of being influential. 

They like folks about them jumping to attention in their presence. “I am important, and I know it,” the ego says to the self. “I enjoy being in the limelight,” is the message the brain receives. And the ego keeps driving home the vision that “I am powerful, important and influential. And there is an affirmation that “I like it.”

Leadership that is centered on ego and personal gain is where we find the absence of decency, respect for human life and the environment. In fact, it’s not uncommon for those who have manipulated themselves into leadership positions, to believe they have somehow been preordained by God to rule. Others visualize mistakenly that they are akin to Gods themselves. These days, I might suggest individuals like Trump, Putin, Netanyahu, and Kim Jong Un see themselves in this light. (But this is not a political sermon).

In Biblical times we know that numerous leaders ruled ruthlessly with little regard for human life. Their ego was big too. The Pharaoh of Egypt, King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon, Herod the Great, King Ahab and the Emperor Nero to name just a few. Moses, Jesus and other prophetic voices would speak out in opposition to these “Big Men.” 

We know from historical accounts that powerful leaders did not listen well. 

Today we heard about the prophet Amos, another voice for reason in the time of the great Kings of Israel. God has seen enough of lawlessness and idolatry; enough of treachery and wickedness among God’s people. God uses the image of a common builder’s plumb line, showing Amos that behavioral covenants have deviated from what is expected. They are out of alignment with God’s vision and disaster is forecast for King Jeroboam and his kingdom too. 

Amos brings this message to the temple priest Amaziah who ignores Amos’ warning. “Go take a hike Amos. You are not needed or wanted here. You think you are such a big shot? Go and peddle your predictions elsewhere. Get lost.” “This is the King’s sanctuary and a temple of the kingdom.”

“Well you have it all wrong,” replies Amos. I’m really a simple “small man.” I earn my living through sheep ranching and pruning trees. I’m not the prophet you think I am. I’m simply here to give you a message I heard from God. God told me the kingdom was out of alignment, God’s moral values are not being upheld. And so, God instructed me to tell you that the King can expect dire consequences if he doesn’t get the people to change their ways.”

Amos never thought of himself as someone important. In fact, he wasn’t a trained prophet. He was a commoner, an ordinary “little man” that God choose to be a messenger. He didn’t go about Israel offering words of wisdom for his own glorification. It was never about personal ego. It would always be about God’s message and living in right relationship.

So, the roles are reversed. Amos becomes BIG while Amaziah and King Jeroboam become quite small. At least in God’s kin-dom they do. 

How often do we look upon ourselves as small, insignificant, incapable and unworthy? We are too small, unimportant, and irrelevant. We can’t stand up to the Big Shots, can we?

Perhaps we need to visualize the “size” perspective a little differently. Because I think we subscribe to a misconception. 

I used to sing that song by Sharon, Lois and Bram to the girls when they were young. They particularly enjoyed my imagining carrying an ice cream truck on my back as I stooped over and walked around. Imagining was and is so much fun. Imagining with children is a lot more than fun though, it is an excellent motivational exercise. Why not believe you are BIG AND TALL! Why not believe you can really make a difference? 

I’ve talked before about how small I sometimes feel when it comes to making a difference. I like to think that in this muddy, complex and cruel world what I do is impactful, in at least some positive way. Do you hope for the same thing?

Friday my youngest granddaughter Athena video called me from Princeton. Her mother was at work, and I think she was a little bored. I asked her if she was hot, and she said yes. “Well why don’t you go outside to your pool,” I asked. “It has bugs in it she replied.” She then took the phone out with her and showed me. “Papa, do you know that earwigs can swim,” she said. Well, I did not know that. I do know that our chats encourage her and hopefully influence her in a good way. She has learned to call either Lenore or I when she needs some reassurance too, like the time she said her mom was being mean to her. She was hoping we could step in in a small way and be Big in her defense. 

And of course, taking your granddaughter to the beach and on the way home getting her a “small” ice cream cone is another way to be Big in the world. 

My prophecy is that we should forget about being small, an insignificant cog in a gigantic wheel. That’s not how God sees a new kin-dom developing. Leave the ego driven “would-be” power seekers to their own devices. Let them bathe in their own limelight. They will eventually burn themselves out.

Those of us with our feet planted firmly on the earth and our ego left hanging on a hook in the closet are those that really can make a BIG difference. 

Those are the grammas who listen to the weeping of their granddaughter’s break up with their first and expected to be “forever” boyfriend, providing some helpful comfort. Those are the mums and dads that pick up the pieces when their child doesn’t make the cut for the school play or the local baseball team. It is the schoolteacher who stays just a little longer helping a student with a math problem or the neighbour who comes over and takes the snow off your sidewalk or cuts your grass when you are unable to. Those are “Big” things done by ordinary everyday little folk like you and me.

I’m going to back up to the catchy children’s song I played just a few minutes ago and repeat the last verse for you. The words are, “I’m not small, I’m so tall, I can carry everyone on my back, when they sing, I’ll sing too. That’s not very hard to do. I’m not small, I’m so tall, I can carry everybody on my back.” 

That catchy children’s song popularized by Sharon, Lois and Bram back in the 70’s was likely never meant to be prophetic, let alone be played during a worship service (except perhaps at children’s time). I never sang it to the kids with that in mind. But it is inspirational.

What better image for a ministry like ours. We love one another and treat each other with kindness and respect. We do for our neighbours what they can’t easily do for themselves. We hold each other up and they in turn hold us when our need for compassion is high. We “hold one another on our backs.” We are small but we stand Big and Tall in a community and a world that needs us. 

We are simple farmers and ranchers like Amos. We are teachers, plumbers, business folks, health professionals, peacekeepers, first responders, lawyers, worship leaders and clerks. We are regular folks. Most of us are retired. We are small but we stand tall. We follow the Amos’ of our time advocating for God’s new kin-dom. We are good listeners, advocates, and friends. 

We’re not small, we are Big and Tall.

Thanks for listening this morning. Amen

Inspired by Mark 6:1-13

The Twelve had set out two by two. The best they could do for transportation was to find a few barely roadworthy used vehicles. The fleet consisted of a couple of old Chev. Malibu’s, a Volkswagen Golf, a tired old Ford F-150, a 1998 Mazda Sedan with a sunroof that won’t close all the way, and a Renault with no back seat and a cracked front window. 

Two of the disciples arrive in Peachland on fumes and I get a call that two stranded guys need some gas. I meet them at the Petro Can. 

They are both somewhat scruffy looking. They have longish hair and big bushy beards. They are dressed in Blue Jeans with holes in the knees and frayed cuffs. They wear T-shirts that are also visibly worn, and runners that are held together with duct tape. But they are clean and presentable all the same. 

I introduce myself as Pastor Ian and say, “Gentleman, good to meet you. I hear you are out of gas.” “Yes sir,” one of them replies. “We have been travelling up through Penticton and we are just about out. ” “I’m Simon and this is John.” (My Spidey senses are tingling).

“Where are you headed,” I ask? “No where in particular,” one of them says. “We are touring British Columbia spreading the gospel here first and then we will work through Alberta. There are 6 teams of us. We are dedicating our time to the Okanagan. Jesus sent us out to spread the good news.” (Oh dear, I’m wondering now). 

“And how is that going” I say?

“We would love to talk to you about that if you have a few minutes,” says Simon. 

Well, I didn’t fall off the turnip truck only yesterday and I’m no fool, but I am compelled to listen. I wonder what I am getting myself into, but I’m thinking perhaps I can provide some pastoral guidance. (That’s what I do after al)! It is Thursday afternoon, and I am not in a rush today, so I agree to sit and listen for a few minutes. I grab three coffees from A&W, and we sit outside at a table there. It is a lovely hot July afternoon. 

John begins, “It seems that things haven’t changed much in a couple thousand years he says. When we knock on doors, a lot of people don’t give us a chance to talk. They just say no thanks before we say anything and shut the door. Others are a little rude, “can’t you read the sign on the door that says no solicitation?” We didn’t think we were soliciting. Some folks won’t even answer the door.” 

“Some places have locked front gates, and you have to ask to be let in. What are they afraid of? “We are not selling anything, and we don’t ask for any money. We just want people to know about Jesus and what an incredible world he saw as possible. He believed if we followed his life teachings people could live happier. It is a simple message, be kind, act justly, be generous and treat everyone as if they were your best friend. We just don’t get it Ian. Most people think we have some ulterior motive when we visit. They seem very impatient and disinterested.”

“That must be very disappointing,” I replied. 

“Well, it is kind of” Simon said. “But Jesus knew what kind of reception we might get. When he began preaching in his hometown people resented him. They thought he was a show off, a bit of a know it all. They shut their doors on him then and ran him out of town.”

“Jesus told us that we might expect the same, so we are not really surprised. But pastor Ian you are right, it is disappointing. But we will just keep on going and do our best. We believe in Jesus’ message so we will keep trying. If our car breaks down, we will try and hitch a ride or walk if we have to. That is how much we believe.”

“I really admire your courage and commitment,” I said. I don’t know many people who would be prepared to spend their lives travelling around the country talking about Jesus’ love, and trying to tell them their lives could be better if they followed Jesus. That is a hard sell.”

“Ian, you are a church guy, you believe in Jesus, and we assume you preach about that,” said John. Do you have any words of advice for us?”  

“Words of Advice?” “Well, I think a lot of folks are very cynical about the healing power of Jesus’ love. And even more, they question if there is a God at all.”

“How can that possibly be true? Simon asked me.”

“Guys I think it is a perception problem, and a huge misunderstanding of what we expect of God, and how we see Jesus in the world today.”

“Too many people question their faith because they have been told that God is supposed to solve all of our present-day calamities. They question God because they understand God is to undue all the harm in the world; solve world hunger, intervein in wars and bring peace, solve the climate crises and so on. They don’t see God as being the one constant in helping us through a crisis. They think God is responsible for disaster and they think God judges people, so they don’t believe.”

“I think it is the same with Jesus. People read the Gospel stories and take them at face value. If Jesus healed a blind man, brought someone back from death, and if Jesus is still alive, how come he can’t do that for me people wonder? I think too many folks expect they are just wasting their time if they listen to you. I expect many folks don’t come to our church, or any church for the same reason.”

“So, what do you think we should say to people Ian?” they both said simultaneously. 

I replied, “Well Jesus told you that you yourselves are the message, right?” 

“Yes,” John said. 

“OK, so when someone does answer, introduce yourselves, but I might leave out the part about you being disciples. Folks might misunderstand your intent. After all, you are disciples just because of what you do.”

“I might start by saying, we are just travelling through your neighbourhood and want to say hi. We don’t have anything to sell, we are not doing any kind of a survey and we are not asking for any money. We are not begging for anything. We are not going to ask any questions about your household and make any notes. We are not hired by any political organization or any church. We won’t call again, and we are not leaving any brochures.”

“We just want you to know that you are loved. Whenever you feel tired, lonely or depressed, try to remember that there is a God, a creator, a Holy Presence that offers comfort and reassurance. Even in our darkest moments when all seems to be lost, God, however named, will embrace you and can make you whole again. You just have to invite God in.”

“And the man called Jesus, well he is most definitely alive. He is present in everyone who honours their friends and neighbour, looks after their family, and is kind and generous as much as they can be. Jesus lives hoping more people will follow him to speak up for injustice. He hopes we will continue to grow in our tolerance for everyone and anyone who is different from you and I in some way. He hopes we will show compassion to anyone who needs it. That is how Jesus heals.”

“And guys, I think I would leave it there. I would just smile and be on your way thanking the person for their time and wishing them a pleasant day.”

“But remember one, thing I say, “and its important.” “Remember Jesus advice about shrugging your shoulders and walking away when you are not being listened to?” Well, that is going to still happen often. Don’t take offense, that can’t be helped. Just keep going as best you can and know that your ministry is blessed.”

“And drop in to see me again sometime, or better yet, come and join us for worship. I think you will find our Community of Faith believe in your message and would love to meet you.”  

They drove off heading to West Kelowna with a full tank of gas courtesy of our Benevolent Fund. So just a heads up that you might get a visit. Thanks for listening this morning, Amen

Inspired by Mark 4:26-34

If you at times feel tiny and insignificant, if you feel at a loss to comprehend your value, then this parable is for you. 

Tiny and seemingly insignificant is what a mustard seed is. And yet one individual seed, about the size of a pin head, can grow to 20 feet high and 15 feet wide. One tree can produce 10,000 seeds. 

A tiny speck of a thing, 1-2 mm in diameter, planted and if allowed to germinate and grow, demonstrates the incredible, and at times incomprehensible nature of Creation. It is all really quite remarkable.

Jesus used a lot of parables like today’s to make his point. The incredible thing about a parable is that its meaning is timeless. A parable can speak to us today just as well as it did when Jesus first spoke the words. This one certainly does. 

The Kingdom of God is like a mustard seed Jesus said to the crowd. It is the smallest of seeds on earth but look what happens when it is allowed to germinate and blossom. Excuse me, folks wondered, I’m a mustard seed? Say again Jesus? 

The interpretation he would hope people would make was, “you are all a part of God’s kingdom reality.” “You, ordinary people, farmers, labourers, artisans, builders, street vendors, merchants, you can be part of the glorious revolution. A time will come when equality will prevail. There will be harmony among all peoples. A more peaceful and just society will be birthed. And you, all of you who are unbelievers now, can be part of that. Just look at what a mustard seed can do. You are like that seed, the potential for miracles lies within you. Believe it. Look at the mature mustard tree and believe.” 

We approach the eve of Canada Day. Tomorrow we will celebrate the 157th anniversary of our confederation. It is not a special anniversary, but one that is drawing in my attention more than usual. I expect that is because we seem to be living inside a cyclone just now. The world seems to be spinning out of control. Serious military conflicts are abundant, the poor and desperate are no better off, the incredible creation that we are a part of is cracking beneath our feet, and in those places where it matters most, we are vastly short of capable and honest political leaders. As Nibs Stroupe says, “We live in an age when the mystery and surprise of all life, including God’s power, are being squeezed out of our consciousness.”[1] 

I think it is because of all the turmoil that surrounds us that I am drawn more closely to reflecting on my roots. I was born in Canada to parents that immigrated after the war. A stable and loving family, always a roof over my head, free education and health care, career opportunities for my choosing. And where in the world can someone at age 59 retire, go back to school and take on an entirely new career like I did? I, and we, all are so grateful to be here. 

This of course does not mean to imply that Canadians don’t have significant challenges because we do. Which brings me back to that little nondescript, seemingly very ordinary mustard seed. The promise of great things exists in each and every seed, and likewise, in each and every one of us gathered here today. You have already proved that. 

Your individual seeds sprouted, in many cases quite a while ago! And you blossomed into kind, generous and giving people. Some of you farmed and fed others. Some of you were peacekeepers, health care workers, artisans, businesspeople, labourers and shopkeepers or professionals. Others may have worked at home as domestic engineers and care givers. All of you grew to maturity in different ways, but you all had one thing in common. You have all been people who served God and followed Jesus in some way. You have all been part of the kin-dom’s coming. You have all been God’s mustard seeds.

Those seeds were sown in fertile soil, and you have put forth large branches, so that the birds of the air can make nests in your shade. Those branches have also supported the needy, held up the fallen and sheltered the lost and abandoned.

So, let us not despair when we look around us focusing only on what is negative. Let’s gaze instead out from this sanctuary and celebrate all that we have contributed to, all that we have accomplished as a spirit led people, and all that we will continue to do in our ministry. We are grateful for being in such a place as this, and we do make a difference, every single one of us. And more than that, we are thankful to be a part of this incredible COF where miracles do happen. You have blossomed from tiny faith seedlings to mature, strong and committed disciples. 

It is good to be here. Happy Canada Day and thanks for listening this morning, 

Amen

[1] P. 143

  Based on Mark 5:21-43

Sickness is the Great Interrupter of life. It enters without knocking, obstructing all plans, mocking the idea of certainty, and diminishing hope for the future. It intrudes like a burglar in our home, touching every part of life. Anyone who receives a lifechanging diagnosis such as cancer, MS, dementia, or Parkinson’s, lives on a roller-coaster of emotions that begins from that moment on and stays with you throughout your journey. I should know – David was diagnosed with Parkinsons in 2014. We were on that roller-coaster for 6 years. I still attend the Parkinson’s Caregivers meetings and I support them in their journeys which are filed with fear, loss, and hope.

In sickness, as in any battle, there are many uncertainties and losses. The pain, the changes in abilities, and the worries around the illness usually amplify the sense of loss experienced. These are not only felt by the person with the disease but by their partner – the caregiver. Among the most common feelings of loss are:

1. Loss of control. Suddenly the body and mind, rather than obeying you, has its own agenda and behaves any way it pleases. It’s like driving a car on an icy highway. Suddenly your car hits an ice slick, and you are out of control. All you can do is hang on and hope for the best. It is a sickening, helpless feeling. 

2. Loss of identity. Sick people become defined by their illness. Isn’t it interesting that the woman in the story is not called by name. Simply, “A woman was there who had been subject to bleeding.” The same is true today. We speak of certain people as: “He has cancer,” “She suffers from manic depression” or “he has Parkinson’s”. Sick people lose their identity in their sickness and often become the illness. The same happens to us – the partner. We are no longer the husband, the wife, the daughter, the son – we become the “caregiver”. 

3. Loss of certainty. With a chronic illness everything becomes dependent on the condition. Vacations are reliant upon the body, or the mind set. Even getting up in the morning is stipulated by the sickness. What was once predictable is now conditional. Your daily routine, if you are lucky enough to have one, can turn on a dime because of that physical and emotional roller-coaster. 

4. Loss of place in society. When sick, losses go beyond the body. Sickness often puts a strain on your relationships, your jobs, your hobbies, your families. You feel like a burden to others. You no longer fit in a healthy world. You often don’t want others to know about your diagnosis which complicates things. People are confused because they know something is different, but they are uncertain what to do or say. 

Parkinson’s is not just a “shaking” disease, it has many other motor and non- motor symptoms. You may start with 1 or 2 symptoms, but more will show up as the disease progresses. No two Parkinson’s people are the same. That is why I encouraged David to tell people about his Parkinson’s symptoms. His were mainly non-motor. David was still David, but everything was done more slowly and anxiously.

5. Loss of resources. The scripture reading tells us that the woman “had spent all she had”. She was financially bankrupt, emotionally spent, and physically weak. She reminds us that vast fortunes of time, energy, and money can be squandered in an effort to bring healing. 

When someone is diagnosed with a chronic illness, we spend a lot of our time, energy, and money to ensure our loved ones can remain as independent as possible, for as long as possible. That they are safe and comfortable. We learn to adapt. Our home changes as the disease progresses. Furniture and carpets are relocated and replaced by grab polls, walkers, railings, and lifts. We may even have to move. 

6. Loss of hope. Perhaps the most chilling aspect of this lady’s life was that she had tried everything “yet instead of getting better she grew worse”. She was beyond human help and hope. She was at her wit’s end. As a last resort, she comes to Jesus hoping against hope that He could heal her. She, in one moment, displays both faith and fear – she touches Jesus’ cloths. 

Like her, the caregiver often fells alone, exhausted, at wits end which can drain any hope and becomes depressed – even suicidal – but who would take care of your loved one if you did. 

Like their caregivers, people diagnosed with a chronic disease like Parkinson’s don’t have much hope – after all there is no cure! Yet they are often the ones who turn to their faith and take their fears, anxieties, and despair to God. 

I truly believe that David was able to accept his many ups and downs, his fears, and his hopes because of his strong faith. Looking back - I never truly appreciated how strong and what a warrior David was until I saw how he handled his Parkinson’s for six years before his body simply gave up. His spirit never faltered, neither did his sense of humour, but the machine simply could not do it anymore. He never complained and always tried to find something to be thankful for every day.

It is easy to pursue Jesus and never touch Him, not trusting Him. Seeking Him but not being found by Him. Coming close to Him but never actually touching Him. Coming near to Jesus doesn’t bring healing or solves our problems. We must touch Him for ourselves. How do we do that? It is one thing for that woman long ago, but how can we touch Him today?

Well, maybe we need to: 

1. Give God a chance. Talk to him! Let him know what your struggles are, whatever they may be. Tell Him about them — just as if He did not know a thing. It may be in prayer or simply writing in a journal like I did. Hold nothing back. Dare to be honest. It does help!

2. Believe that God will hear you. He heard the poor woman who only touched the hem of His garment, so you need to believe that He will hear you and care what happens to you. 

3. Be willing to wait patiently. He doesn’t answer every prayer on Sunday afternoon. You may have to wait until Friday. But wait you must! God is never in a hurry. The person who waits on God loses no time.

4. When He speaks to you, do what He tells you. He may not tell you audibly. You may not hear His voice, but generally through your own conscience or through trusted counsel of friends He will indicate a course of action.

When He lets you know what you must do, do it. The day I called the ambulance for David, I believed he was going to a nursing home where I knew he didn’t want to be in. I wasn’t ready to let him go! When our family doctor called the next day, saying he was with David and wanted to know what we were going to do – my answer was “put him comfortable and let him go”. Where did that come from? I don’t know – but I listened to my heart.

The message today, is that one woman, at the end of her rope, had the courage to step out of normal procedures to find healing hope. She touched and connected with Jesus, and He stopped for her. He stopped for David and me. He will stop for you too. God didn’t bring you this far to leave you – so, don’t miss that miracle. 

In closing I want to share a caregiver’s prayer. 

Lord, as this new day dawns, I rise with wonderings of how my day will be. Will it be good, or will it be filled with struggles that seek to drain my strength? I call on you to take control of my day and give me discernment to handle whatever comes my way. Give me peace in knowing that I cannot fix everything. Provide your words of comfort to me when I am running low on strength. Open my eyes to see all that is good when I can only see the pain and grief. Close my mouth when I need to just listen and give me words of encouragement to share when it is needed. Provide me relief when I grow tired.

Help me see your plan through all the fog of life. Remind me that caring for my loved one is a privilege. It is an honour, not a burden. I pray for the restoration of my soul. I pray for strength to make it through this day. You said not to worry about tomorrow, so I won’t. Lord, you are the healer, the Great Physician. Heal my heart when it's broken and heal the pain when my loved one hurts.

Always help me remember when I feel alone, I’m not. You are always there, going before me to prepare the way. I pray all these requests in the name of Jesus, Amen

Thank you for listening.