Scripture “How can I account for the people of this generation? They’re like spoiled children complaining to their parents, ‘We wanted to skip rope and you were always too tired; we wanted to talk but you were always too busy.’ John the Baptizer came fasting and you called him crazy. The Son of Man came feasting and you called him a lush. Opinion polls don’t count for much, do they? The proof of the pudding is in the eating.”Luke 7:31-35 The Message (MSG)
A Word of Hope Cathedral of Hope Jr. High Youth just returned from their short mission trip to Beaumont Texas. We left for Beaumont on Wednesday June 24th and returned to the Cathedral on June 28th during the 11 service. The beauty of this group of youth is that they have been known to be by nature the most exciting, hyper, and most eager to complain group. This group of young friends are from 5th to 8th grade who are in that stage of still being attached to parents and yet learning to enter into pre-teen years responsibilities. They are confused to say the least! I have learned some are advanced for their ages and can grasp a concept and instructions quickly. While others like to negotiate, complain and before they grasp instructions. There are so many kinds of personalities and backgrounds that are mix together with this group. So before we left on our mission trip we all entered a covenant. They would agree to listen attentively, ask questions, and follow directions without complaining. In return we would explain things carefully, with detailed directions and when possible, give options.
In the Gospel of Luke Chapter 7, the question is asked: “how can I account for the people of this generation?” Despite how long ago this book was written the question still rings true today. Do we ever feel content? Can we ever stop to admire the beauty of life despite our challenges? Luke explains no matter how many options were given to people they were discontent. The writer goes on to say John the Baptist was fasting in the wilderness, he was labeled crazy and when Jesus was eating and meeting in peoples homes and he was seen as too extravagant. It seems that just like today, keeping people content was not an easy task.
With my young friends I have learned that if they invest in the trip by being more than participants they can appreciate it more. I believe the same is true in all our lives as followers of Christ. I have seen first hand how easy it is to get used to living a state of complaint and discontent. Complaining and unhappiness are easy. At least in my case they come without even trying. Investing our mindset to find good in all, and to actively look at the positive in life takes hard work. I have seen in these past few months more and more of our congregation becoming involved in committees, attending board meetings and participating in social events and volunteer opportunities. I can see the sun shining on Cathedral and the people around investing in themselves; through time, money, prayers, and loving to show God’s infinite love to the world out there. I am proud to be part of a community and a congregation who are ready to hold together and to move forward sharing the good news.
In the Message Bible the verse of Luke 7:35 says “The proof of the pudding is in the eating.” You have to taste for yourself if the pudding is good and if it satisfies you. This last part reminded me of the Psalmist who said “Open your mouth and taste, open your eyes and see- how good God is. Blessed are you who run to God.” Psalm 34:8
Prayer God, may we continue to remember that you are good and may we not become distracted. May we remember that working together we can build and become a shelter for those who seek hope, love, peace and rest.
Amen