For I am the least of the apostles, unfit to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace toward me has not been in vain. 1 Corinthians 15:9-10a
Dear Friends in Christ,
Tonight the top presidential candidates convene for a debate. Many are less than enthusiastic about either of them. This Saturday is the Feast of St. Peter & St. Paul, two of the great heroes of the Christian church. And yet, we are wise to remember how these two saints were also knuckle-heads themselves. Peter impulsively tried to manage Jesus’ image, and later denied knowing him just when Jesus needed a witness in his favor. Paul persecuted the church, arresting and dragging off those who claimed Jesus as Lord.
And yet, these two knuckle-heads were loved by our Lord and called to follow him. These two followers of Jesus knew the power of his grace, his mercy and his forgiveness. They knew the empowerment and renewal of the Holy Spirit. They saw the power of God change lives—starting with their own. And they brought that life-giving power to others fearlessly and passionately.
If God can do that in the lives of such knuckle-heads, there is hope for our country—there is hope even for you and for me! God bless, redeem and restore all the knuckle-heads out there, and bring us all to glorify him and to love generously the way he loves.
Come join us for the birthday of our parish this Saturday—the Feast of St. Peter & St. Paul. We will have a “Family style” Eucharist in the parish hall at 5:30 (fit for young and old, single and married, kids or no kids), followed by dinner together. Sign up here for dinner so that we are ready to welcome you.
Your knuckle-head in Christ,
-Tom