Church of the Ascension

Blessed be the Lord! A song of praise for the Reign of Christ

The Story
Nov. 24, 2019
The Feast of the Reign of Christ

Luke 1:68-79

The Song of Zechariah

Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel; he has come to his people and set them free. He has raised up for us a mighty Saviour, born of the house of his servant David.

Through his holy prophets he promised of old, that he would save us from our enemies, from the hands of all who hate us. He promised to show mercy to our fathers and to remember his holy covenant. This was the oath he swore to our father Abraham, to set us free from the hands of our enemies, free to worship him without fear, holy and righteous in his sight all the days of our life.

You, my child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High, for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way, to give his people knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of their sins. In the tender compassion of our God the dawn from on high shall break upon us, to shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, and to guide our feet into the way of peace.

Something to Do

Sing with Zechariah

Zechariah was an elderly priest, married to Elizabeth (Mary’s cousin). Zechariah and Elizabeth had never had children. One day, an angel appeared to Zechariah while he was carrying out his duties in the temple. The angel promised a child, who was to be named John and who would grow up to become John the Baptist. Zechariah was openly doubtful about the promise and the angel, as punishment or as proof, took away his voice until the moment of John’s birth (and naming).

When the wonderful day came, Zechariah’s voice was restored and the first words out of his mouth were the song, now known as the Benedictus or the Song of Zechariah.

Since it is a song, sing it! Or at least listen to it being sung. Some versions are linked below.

Guide our feet in the way of peace

Zechariah sings of God’s promises, ending with the beautiful image of God guiding God’s people’s “feet in the way of peace”.

Allow God to guide your feet this week. How might you follow the way of peace? Is there something you can do to bring peace to your own heart or to a relationship that is sometimes (or always) conflictual? Can you be a peaceful presence in your workplace or school or neighbourhood?

Something to Wonder

Herald of the King

The Song of Zechariah is read instead of a psalm on the Sunday of the Reign of Christ (also known as Christ the King Sunday). It is sung to a baby who will be the one to prepare the way for the the Lord, the King, who is to come.

How do we prepare the way for the Lord?
What do you do to open yourself up to hear the call of Jesus?
What might you do to prepare the way for someone else to encounter Jesus?

Freedom under the King

Freedom and monarchy do not often go together but freedom is a defining feature of the reign of Jesus – freedom to worship; freedom from oppression; freedom from judgement; freedom from fear; freedom from death.

Imagine the power of these promises for a people living under occupation.

Imagine embracing these promises fully for yourself. What would you do if you lived into this freedom that has been offered to you?

Something to Learn

Praying the Daily Office

The Song of Zechariah is traditionally said during the service of Morning Prayer (or the Morning Office). The practice of the daily office – or any deliberate, consistent prayer practice – reminds us that our time and our attention belong first to Jesus, our true ruler.

Learn more about the ancient practice of the office and consider incorporating it into your own prayer life.

A brief history of the development of the modern Anglican daily office pattern.

A personal reflection by the Bishop of Tennessee on why praying the offices is important to him.

A few versions to try for yourself:

Something to Pray

Holy God, we do not always understand your word or your ways. 
Give us wisdom and imagination and courage as we learn and grow. 

The story this week has made me wonder about…
         (what questions are still on your heart?)
Receive my questions and help me hear your answers.

The story this week has filled me with…
         (how are you feeling?)
Accept my praise, heal my hurt, ease my worry.

The story this week has reminded me of…
         (are there situations or people you are thinking of?)
Be with all who are in need of you.

In Jesus’ name, we pray.
Amen.

Terrifying Signs that the Kingdom is Coming

The Story
Nov. 17, 2019

Luke 21:5-19

When some were speaking about the temple, how it was adorned with beautiful stones and gifts dedicated to God, Jesus said, “As for these things that you see, the days will come when not one stone will be left upon another; all will be thrown down.” They asked him, “Teacher, when will this be, and what will be the sign that this is about to take place?”

And he said, “Beware that you are not led astray; for many will come in my name and say, ‘I am he!’ and, ‘The time is near!’ Do not go after them. When you hear of wars and insurrections, do not be terrified; for these things must take place first, but the end will not follow immediately.” Then he said to them, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom; there will be great earthquakes, and in various places famines and plagues; and there will be dreadful portents and great signs from heaven.

But before all this occurs, they will arrest you and persecute you; they will hand you over to synagogues and prisons, and you will be brought before kings and governors because of my name. This will give you an opportunity to testify. So make up your minds not to prepare your defence in advance; for I will give you words and a wisdom that none of your opponents will be able to withstand or contradict. You will be betrayed even by parents and brothers, by relatives and friends; and they will put some of you to death. You will be hated by all because of my name. But not a hair of your head will perish. By your endurance you will gain your souls.” 

Something to Do

Terrifying Signs of the Coming of the Kingdom

The picture Jesus paints for the disciples is terrifying – wars and famines and earthquakes and persecution. It is also pretty familiar – Jesus could be describing almost any decade in human history. This is why people see the end of the world in every generation, both before Jesus and after him.

But if the end of the world is the the same thing as the coming of the Kingdom of God, the realization of God’s vision of perfect justice and peace for all creation, then why is it so scary? Why does it come with such destruction and suffering?

Because people with something to lose – people who don’t actually want perfect justice and peace – fight its coming. All too often, justice seekers and peacemakers are met with violence. Which means that their work is a double sign. When we see love and hope and self-sacrifice in action, we catch a glimpse of the Kingdom itself. And when we see the war and persecution that rises up to stop it, we know that the Kingdom is near.

So name both signs this week. Look for the glimpses of the Kingdom and rejoice. But also hold fast to the hope that what looks like destruction is actually birthpangs.

the days will come when not one stone will be left upon another…

Do a little internet searching for pictures of glorious temples that have fallen, whether due to war or simply the passing of time. Some suggestions: Coventry Cathedral, the Parthenon, the 2nd Temple, the Luisenstädtische Kirche, the Temple of Zeus at Aizanoi.

Something to Wonder

Beware that you are not led astray

There are many teachers competing for our attention and our loyalty, offering alternative ways to follow rather than the way of Jesus.

When have you been attracted by another teacher? What was appealing about that way? What made you realized you were being led astray?

Are you, perhaps, currently following another teacher some of the time? How can you make sure the way you are following is in keeping with the way of Jesus?

I will give you words of wisdom

Have you ever had the experience of finding words you didn’t think you had? Perhaps when you had to speak in your own or someone else’s defence or at a time of grief or a time of healing? If so, what was it like?

Perhaps words are not the way you move through the world. If that is the case, have you ever been the ability to do something you needed to do but didn’t know how you could? Or the means to communicate something you didn’t know how to communicate? How did that feel?

Have you ever thought of naming that gifted capacity as the Holy Spirit? If not, why not?

Something to Learn

A variety of apocalypses

Shades of Millenarianism from the Economist
This article addresses the role of apocalyptic thought in Iranian theological and political thinking – because the end of the world does not only interest Christians!

Millenarianism and Violence is a short, accessible scholarly article that takes a sweeping look at millenarian movements around the world and the risks they have posed.

Facing a possible Climate Apocalypse puts the climate crisis in conversation with dangers of the past and offers (a rather bleak) kind of hope for the future. Note: this is NOT a politically neutral piece!

And, finally, this article from the Irish Examiner looks at the backlash against Greta Thunberg: Does Greta Thunberg make you uncomfortable?

Something to Pray

Holy God, we do not always understand your word or your ways. 
Give us wisdom and imagination and courage as we learn and grow. 

The story this week has made me wonder about…
         (what questions are still on your heart?)
Receive my questions and help me hear your answers.

The story this week has filled me with…
         (how are you feeling?)
Accept my praise, heal my hurt, ease my worry.

The story this week has reminded me of…
         (are there situations or people you are thinking of?)
Be with all who are in need of you.

In Jesus’ name, we pray.
Amen.

Blessed are the who?

The Story
Nov. 3, 2019
Feast of All Saints (transferred)

Luke 6:20-31

Then Jesus looked up at his disciples and said:

“Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God.
Blessed are you who are hungry now, for you will be filled.
Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh.
Blessed are you when people hate you, and when they exclude you, revile you, and defame you on account of the Son of Man.
Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, for surely your reward is great in heaven; for that is what their ancestors did to the prophets.

But woe to you who are rich, for you have received your consolation.
Woe to you who are full now, for you will be hungry.
Woe to you who are laughing now, for you will mourn and weep.
Woe to you when all speak well of you, for that is what their ancestors did to the false prophets.

But I say to you that listen, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. If anyone strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also; and from anyone who takes away your coat do not withhold even your shirt. Give to everyone who begs from you; and if anyone takes away your goods, do not ask for them again. Do to others as you would have them do to you. ” 

Something to Do

A Different Interpretation

Read Eugene Peterson’s interpretation of Luke’s Beatitudes and see if it shakes loose a new understanding for you.

From The Message:

You’re blessed when you’ve lost it all.
God’s kingdom is there for the finding.
You’re blessed when you’re ravenously hungry.
Then you’re ready for the Messianic meal.
You’re blessed when the tears flow freely.
Joy comes with the morning.

“Count yourself blessed every time someone cuts you down or throws you out, every time someone smears or blackens your name to discredit me. What it means is that the truth is too close for comfort and that that person is uncomfortable. You can be glad when that happens—skip like a lamb, if you like!—for even though they don’t like it, I do . . . and all heaven applauds. And know that you are in good company; my preachers and witnesses have always been treated like this.

But it’s trouble ahead if you think you have it made.
What you have is all you’ll ever get.
And it’s trouble ahead if you’re satisfied with yourself.
 Your self will not satisfy you for long.
And it’s trouble ahead if you think life’s all fun and games.
 There’s suffering to be met, and you’re going to meet it.

“There’s trouble ahead when you live only for the approval of others, saying what flatters them, doing what indulges them. Popularity contests are not truth contests—look how many scoundrel preachers were approved by your ancestors! Your task is to be true, not popular.

 “To you who are ready for the truth, I say this: Love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. When someone gives you a hard time, respond with the energies of prayer for that person. If someone slaps you in the face, stand there and take it. If someone grabs your shirt, giftwrap your best coat and make a present of it. If someone takes unfair advantage of you, use the occasion to practice the servant life. No more tit-for-tat stuff. Live generously.  “Here is a simple rule of thumb for behavior: Ask yourself what you want people to do for you; then grab the initiative and do it for them! 

Love your enemies

Is there anyone giving you a hard time lately? Maybe you wouldn’t call them an enemy – or maybe you would – but someone who is on your nerves or making life more difficult than it needs to be; someone who is unkind or unhelpful to you or to the world as you understand it?

How can you love them? Is there something nice you can do for them? A gesture of friendship or of cooperation? What prayer could you offer for them?

Something to Wonder

Blessings and Woes

Once again, Jesus flips things upside down from what common sense would have us believe – hunger brings joy and plenty bring suffering.

Is there a time in your life when things felt flipped upside down like this? A time when it looked like you had reason to be sad but instead were joyful or a time when it looked like you should be joyful but instead were sad? What was the situation?

You want me to do what!?

The to-do list at the end of this passage is pretty daunting – there is a lot of self-sacrifice and counter-cultural responses being asked of us.

  • Which of those things seem most difficult to you? Why?
  • Which seem most possible? Why?
  • Do any of those things seem simply wrong or irresponsible? If so, which and why?

Something to Learn

Turn the other cheek – perspectives on Christian pacifism

Pacifism has a long and complicated history in the Christian tradition, with many versions and many arguments for and against those various versions.

Ted Grimsrud is a Mennonite scholar and pacifist. Read his discussion of Christian Pacifism in Brief (not actually that brief) on the blog, Peace Theology.

The BBC has many resources on the subject – begin with this article on the Christianity and the ethics of war and just keep following the hyperlinks.

In a post for the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission of the the Southern Baptist Convestion, Joe Cook provides A brief Introduction to the just war tradition. (actually pretty brief)

Something to Pray

Holy God, we do not always understand your word or your ways. 
Give us wisdom and imagination and courage as we learn and grow. 

The story this week has made me wonder about…
         (what questions are still on your heart?)
Receive my questions and help me hear your answers.

The story this week has filled me with…
         (how are you feeling?)
Accept my praise, heal my hurt, ease my worry.

The story this week has reminded me of…
         (are there situations or people you are thinking of?)
Be with all who are in need of you.

In Jesus’ name, we pray.
Amen.

A Pharisee and a tax collector walk into a temple…

The Story
October 27, 2019
20th Sunday after Pentecost

Luke 18:9-14

Jesus also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous and regarded others with contempt:

“Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee, standing by himself, was praying thus, ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other people: thieves, rogues, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give a tenth of all my income.’ But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even look up to heaven, but was beating his breast and saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, a sinner!’ I tell you, this man went down to his home justified rather than the other; for all who exalt themselves will be humbled, but all who humble themselves will be exalted.” 

Something to Do

Be merciful to me, a sinner

The Orthodox Church has a tradition called the prayer walk. It is, quite simply, walking while praying in time with your steps. The prayer used most traditionally is called the Jesus prayer: Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner. The prayer reminds us of our fallibility, our reliance on Jesus, and Jesus’ faithfulness.

Go for a prayer walk and see how it feels to use the traditional prayer. You can, of course, create your own short prayer to accompany you on your walk.

Embodying the Story

Read the story – either out loud or silently. When you read the Pharisee, hold your body the way you imagine him standing. How does this posture make you feel? If you were talking to someone (like, say, God), what would you be communicating? When have you held your body this way? Why?

When you read the tax collector, hold your body the way you imagine him standing. Beat your chest like he does. How does this posture make you feel? What are you communicating? When have you held your body this way? Why?

Something to Wonder

Look in the Mirror

An interesting question to bring to any Bible story but, perhaps, especially to parables is this: Who am I in this story? The answer you give to that question might change every time you read the story or you may find that you are persistently the same character.

Take a good look at yourself in the mirror of this parable. Are you the self-satisfied Pharisee or the tax collector desperate for God’s help? In what way?

What is it like seeing yourself in the parable?

All who exalt themselves will be humbled…

This feels like an interesting text for the week after the election we just experienced. What lessons would you draw from Jesus’ story for us as citizens? What lessons would you like to share with the various politicians that have been called to service?

Something to Learn

More about the Jesus Prayer and Prayer Walks

Orthodoxprayer.org offers a fascinating glimpse into the spiritual practices of Eastern Orthodox traditions. The whole site is worth exploring but here’s a link to a commentary on the Jesus Prayer, written by St. Theophan the Recluse, a Russian bishop who lived from 1815-1894.

For a more contemporary view, and briefer article, on the Jesus Prayer and its use in prayer walks, visit Orthodox Way of Life, a site maintained by Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral.

Something to Pray

Holy God, we do not always understand your word or your ways. 
Give us wisdom and imagination and courage as we learn and grow. 

The story this week has made me wonder about…
         (what questions are still on your heart?)
Receive my questions and help me hear your answers.

The story this week has filled me with…
         (how are you feeling?)
Accept my praise, heal my hurt, ease my worry.

The story this week has reminded me of…
         (are there situations or people you are thinking of?)
Be with all who are in need of you.

In Jesus’ name, we pray.
Amen.

Read the Bible. Outloud.

The Story
October 20, 2019
19th Sunday after Pentecost

2 Timothy 3:14-4:5

But as for you, continue in what you have learned and firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it, and how from childhood you have known the sacred writings that are able to instruct you for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness,so that everyone who belongs to God may be proficient, equipped for every good work.

In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I solemnly urge you: proclaim the message; be persistent whether the time is favourable or unfavourable; convince, rebuke, and encourage, with the utmost patience in teaching. For the time is coming when people will not put up with sound doctrine, but having itching ears, they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own desires, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander away to myths. As for you, always be sober, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, carry out your ministry fully.

Gospel Reading: Luke 18:1-8

Something to Do

Proclaim the Message

Our baptismal vows include the promise to proclaim, in word and deed, the Good News of God in Christ? Fulfilling this promise requires us to know what that Good News is – and each of us will have a slightly different answer.

Whatever our answer, though, we are called to proclaim the message – not whisper or suggest or allude to the message. Proclaim it. Your challenge this week is to find a way to do that.

Bonus points if you tell someone from your church community about what you tried and how it felt!

More proclaiming…but less daunting

Choose a Bible passage you really love and proclaim it. This is more than just reading it out loud – it’s about reading it out loud because it’s important and exciting and good news. Read it in such a way that any one who hears you will be drawn to actually listen.

And again with the bonus points: commit it to memory! Something very interesting happens when you memorize even a short passage (more than a verse – it needs to have some sweep) and proclaim it from heart.

Something to Wonder

All scripture is inspired by God and is useful…

How do you react to this claim? Are there parts of scripture that make this hard to believe? If so, which ones and why? How do you explain their inclusion in the Bible?

If you happily embrace this claim, how would you explain your feelings and ideas to a fellow Christian who did not?

Be persistent

Who are the persistent evangelists who have shaped you, patiently teaching and guiding you to deeper understanding and greater faith?

Who are the persistent evangelists of our age and what is their message? Are they teaching truth or just telling stories people want to hear?

What is the message God has entrusted to you? Have you been persistent in sharing it?

Something to Learn

Biblical Storytelling

The Network of Biblical Storytellers provides resources and training in this particular art form. See some of their storytellers at work. Learn about what they do and why they do it.

3 Reasons Why the Bible is Worth it

Pete Enns is a biblical studies professor, author, and speaker. His blog is full of witty and thoughtful reflections on the nature and content of the Bible, its lack of inerrancy, and the joys that brings. This entry is particularly lovely: 3 Reasons Why the Bible is Worth It.

Something to Pray

Holy God, we do not always understand your word or your ways. 
Give us wisdom and imagination and courage as we learn and grow. 

The story this week has made me wonder about…
         (what questions are still on your heart?)
Receive my questions and help me hear your answers.

The story this week has filled me with…
         (how are you feeling?)
Accept my praise, heal my hurt, ease my worry.

The story this week has reminded me of…
         (are there situations or people you are thinking of?)
Be with all who are in need of you.

In Jesus’ name, we pray.
Amen.