Saints,
Identifying as a Christian in these times can be challenging. I know when I’ve identified as Queer Christian, I’ve received puzzled looks from Queers and Christians. One time on X, a Doomsday type called me a demon. Those who are remnant Exodus Int’l folk said it was impossible to be both. I look at my hands, pinch my forearm, breathe…. Yup, I’m possible. I am.
And then there’s White Christian Nationalism.
I can’t talk about it enough. It is all about seizing power. It looks nothing like followers of Christ, and (I will dare to say) it is the wolf pack among sheep. The damage that is being done to our siblings and our social ethos is unconscionable. As the British historian Lord Acton wrote in an 1887 letter, “Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.”
Which leads me to this week’s RCL Scripture, Matthew 9:35-10:23 (it’s a long one, so buckle up). In Matthew’s account, Jesus is sending the disciples out together, whereas in Mark they are sent out two by two (there’s safety in numbers). It is packed with famous quotes of “the harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few”, “sheep among wolves”, “shake the dust off your shoes”, “wise as serpents and innocent as doves”. In 2026, Jesus is calling and sending us out as disciples, bringing peace upon the houses. It never was easy work, and it never will be. But together we can do it.
I look forward to seeing you Sunday at 10 am on 1130 Balclutha, Zoom, or Livestream. Welcome someone into the fold.
Love,
Rev. Michael
P.S. Preparing for the 60th Anniversary, we have found a treasure trove of historical documents and photos. We’ll have them out on Sunday for you to look at and identify before and after service. If you can arrive around 9:30 am and stay a little longer after, that would be deluxe. Many hands make light work!