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Showing posts with the label Acceptance

Impossible

First Presbyterian Church – Lafayette, Louisiana October 23, 2011- Ordinary (30 A) Psalm 90:1-6 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8
 Matthew 22:34-46 Last Saturday I went down to New Orleans for my brother-in-law’s wedding. If I were a person who believed in a vengeful God or instant Karma I would say that my recompense for missing the Presbytery meeting was to get lost in the French Quarter. When I finally arrived I had actually missed the ceremony, but was still well received for the reception. I only knew about 5 people out of the 150 that were present – and that included the bride and groom. I was, of course, introduced to those I met as a minister. I am certainly not ashamed of that honor, but it is always interesting meeting folks in that way. One never knows the baggage or expectations that may be encountered. I met a man – whose name I have sadly forgotten – who surprised me more than any I’ve ever met. He was in his 60’s and from his reaction I could tell that he was probably ...

The Choice

First Presbyterian Church - Lafayette, Louisiana October 9, 2011 - Ordinary (28 A) Isaiah 52:13-53:12 Philippians 4:1-9 Matthew 22:1-14 How many of you remember the song O Be Careful, Little Eyes? Some of you may have sung it as a child or to your children. I’m not sure where or when I first encountered that song, but I have to admit that it has always made me uncomfortable. O be careful little eyes what you see O be careful little eyes what you see There's a Father up above Who’s looking down on you in love So, be careful little eyes what you see And it continues with be careful what you hear, what you do, and where you go. The thing that has always made me uncomfortable is that it seems like a set up. God loves me, but God is watching me like a hawk. So, I had better be careful. I have choices to make - and I had better make good ones. That is the implication of today’s parable; at least that is the traditional interpretation of this parable. God is the King. J...