Just Say Yes

I have to admit I’m intrigued, but I also know the consequences are likely to be great. Imbedded in an e-mail posting was a reference to New Monasticisms and Just Faith groups as examples of new cultures within the Christian religion which are working within the historical tradition. Shane Claiborne is one of the more recognizable faces of New Monasticism, but I had never heard of Just Faith groups. Before I left for work I sent a homework assignment to my friend Jane because she loves researching new ideas and I thought this would be something about which she could get excited. Saying yes to God seems to have been easier for her. She has always been a mentor to the youth, and the not so young, but since she has discovered disaster relief work, she feels like she has really found her niche. And that’s probably what she was doing today, because I didn’t find a three page essay on the subject and what other places that had led her to investigate. So I went back this evening to read a bit more. Just Faith is an organization with Catholic foundations, but which also hosts an ecumenical program to make themselves as accessible as the needs are that needs to be met. It is not a small program in content or in scope providing multiple layers of support. “J Walking” is the program designed for youth, but it is not abbreviated or diluted, encouraging youth to “walk against the flow, choosing unconventional paths." Both programs are a thirty-week justice formation process involving study, speakers, hands-on experience, and community building. A thirty-week commitment, why would I read any further??? I stopped singing in the choir because of existing time constraints. It’s hard to plan a weekend trip out of town because I already have several existing obligations. And big idealist that I can be, I have never followed through on mission trips, never seeming to find a compatible time with workload and family needs. My actions defy my inclinations. I know my history. What would be the point in pursuing this?

My prayer for the congregation?

Dear God, You are relentless. You never rest in meeting the needs of those who call upon your name, and for those who don’t even know that you are a possibility of relief. You persist in calling those who can help be your hands and keep offering new avenues of labor for the sake of justice, for the sake of charity and for the sake of spiritual growth. In order that I may be your hands, I have to abandon my former excuses and rationalizations. In order that I may be your servant, I have to remove my name as lord. Let us say yes when you present another way to follow more closely in the dust of the rabbi’s feet. The consequences may be great, as may be our return. Ultimately, may we return to you in humble submission and adoration. Amen.