People of God,
It is that time of year! I just got off the phone with my aunt. She told me that at 6:30 Monday morning their Godello (white) grapes were harvested. They hope that, with this heat over the next couple of days, the sugar levels in the Cabernet and Merlot (reds) will come up so they can harvest by the end of the week before the next onslaught of cold weather and rain. Over the years, I have witnessed the detail of care it takes throughout the year toward a bountiful yield.
The vineyard, the vine, and the branches are major metaphors for our relationship with God and God’s care for us. It seems appropriate that this week we are brought the parable of the landowner and the wicked tenants. With all the political theatre and other human folly over these past weeks, the admonition that the parable brings seems duly appropriate.
I look forward to sharing some thoughts on Matthew 21:33-46 this Sunday at 10 am on Balclutha or on Zoom. Tell a friend.
Share the bounty,
Rev. Michael Cronin
P.S. October 4 is the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi. In honor of our furry friends and family, and all creatures great and small, I offer this blessing:
Blessed are you, Sovereign God, maker of all living creatures.
You called forth fish in the sea, birds in the air, and animals on the land.
You inspired St. Francis to call all of them his siblings.
We ask you to bless our pets.
Cover them with of the power of your love
May we always praise you for all your beauty in creation.
Blessed are you, Sovereign God, in all your creatures! Amen.
