Jesus: The Foundation of our Faith - April 21

Today’s Readings:  AM Psalms 5, 6; PM Psalms 10, 11; Exodus 15:1-21; 1 Pet. 1:13-25; John 14:18-31

The hymn “The Church’s One Foundation” (#525) has been running through my head. In case you don’t have the 1982 Hymnal handy, the lyrics proclaim that Jesus is the foundation of the Church, created by water and the Word. The verses also speak to human events in the Church that have shaped her since the early days of Christianity; though conflicts and stresses press upon the Church, the saints keep watch over us. They cry out, “How long?” And, then follows the reassurance: “Soon the night of weeping shall be the morn of song.”

I cling to those words. I know that soon the night of weeping and separation will end, and we will gather in person to celebrate the Risen Son. Before the dawn breaks forth, while sitting in the confines of my house, I do ask, “How much longer?” In this space of prayer and waiting, I feel concern for those who are lonely and struggling; those who cannot visit their loved ones in healthcare facilities; those putting themselves at risk by working in unsafe or contaminated environments; those who are losing their jobs; those who are susceptible to COVID-19; and, those charged with making decisions for the public’s health and safety. I hear God calling for patience and compassion.

What if we leave the saints to linger in the time-delimited question “How long?”, and we lean upon the foundation of our faith, Jesus Christ? Our readings today provide some great grist for us. John’s gospel speaks to the legacy of mutuality and love that Jesus leaves for us. Peter’s letter calls us to prepare our minds for what actions are ahead. Above all, we are not alone in our waiting: we have the Holy Spirit who teaches and reminds us of what Jesus said. It is through the Risen Son’s unbounded love for us that we can put one foot in front of the other in times like this. Let us heed Jesus’ words: “Rise, let us be on our way!”

-- Katherine+

Questions for Reflection

  • What hymns or songs are on your mind?

  • What do you need to do to respond to God’s love in your life? Sing? Sit? Share?

Daily Challenge

  • There is some cognitive dissonance in living into Jesus’ command to his friends, “Rise, let us be on our way!” in a time when we are supposed to stay at home as much as possible. Find ways to live into this resurrection call to Christian action today.

Katherine Harper