Companions,
I don’t know about you, but there are nights when my brain just doesn’t shut down (usually Saturday) and I can hear the tick-tock of the digital clock. Now, there are some mad skills in that ability. I lie there wondering if what I have to say is relevant or whether I’ve omitted something important. Ukraine, Gaza, Haiti, Racism, Xenophobia, White Christian Nationalism…
I wish I could be like Eleanor Rigby and leave my brain in a jar by the door next to her face.
This week, we look at Mark 4:35-41, when Jesus calms the windstorm on the water with “Peace! Be still!” He then asks the disciples why they are afraid. “Have you still no faith?” May I not be struck dead by lightning, but in my experience it is possible to have faith and still be afraid. I think about Christian theologian Paul Tillich writing, “Doubt isn’t the opposite of faith; it is an element of faith.”
Couldn’t the same be said about fear? With my fears, I have pushed forward trusting in God’s presence. What do you think?
I look forward to seeing you at 10 am Sunday at 1130 Balclutha, on Zoom or Livestream. Bring your questions and a friend.
Love,
Rev. Michael Cronin
P.S. Another big thanks to Carly Ozard for her musical gifts offered last week. Wishing our Black siblings a Blessed Juneteenth.