Bridges of Connection - July 15
Today’s Readings: AM Psalm 38; PM Psalm 119:25-48; Joshua 3:1-13; Rom. 11:25-36; Matt. 25:31-46
An icebreaker I use frequently with events is a game called “this or that” where I’ll draw a line down the middle of the room and present a variety of pairs, and the participants choose a side based on their preference for either “this or that.” Here’s a couple examples, snacks that are salty or sweet? Read a book or go to a party? The goal is to mix and mingle and have fun. The stakes are low. But what about the choice between Auburn or Alabama? Still pretty low stakes, but emotions emerge around your side being the right and best side. I’d never ask the following question because it’s too risky…Republican or Democrat? I mean, can we even be friends if we’re not on the same side? I say that with a fair amount of sarcasm, but we all know that politics often create a harsh line that can damage relationships – sometimes beyond repair. With or without politics, the year 2020 has given us plenty of choices that separate us between “this or that” side – drawing sides between who’s right, who’s wrong? Who’s in, who’s out?
I’m hearing a similar theme of who belongs and who doesn’t across all the readings from today. In Joshua, we hear that God is driving out the Non-Israelites as the Israelites cross the Jordan carrying the Ark of the Covenant. In Matthew, we hear Jesus describe the judgment of nations and the separation of the good from the bad. In Romans, we hear “a hardening has come upon part of Israel” (11:25) that divides some from the others based on acceptance of Jesus. There is a distressing sense of chosenness and rejection, and it seems to be based on God’s judgment. But if we take a closer look, there’s hope! The Psalmist encourages us, “Behold, I long for your commandments; in your righteousness preserve my life” (Ps. 119:40). Righteousness is being in right relationship with God through the commandments and God offers us a timeless and life-giving bridge of connection through living in covenantal relationship.
From Joshua, the Ark of the Covenant represents the presence of God with the Israelites because it contains The Law – which is the bridge that keeps us in right relationship with God and our neighbor. In Matthew, Jesus tells us that by serving others we serve Jesus himself. And Paul writes that God’s mercy is for all people of all time and places, and God calls each of us to participate in this mission of salvation for the whole world. These are bridges of covenant with God. There are other bridges that connect us, also, such as communion and prayer. Each invites confession and reconciliation to restore broken bridges; this can sometimes be the most difficult and yet fruitful kind of bridge. Each also invites intercession, praise, and thanksgiving for the abundant and universal gifts of mercy, love, and grace that keep us connected.
I don’t know about you, but I’m longing for connection rather than separation. God invites us into relationship and life in Christ. Contact a loved one to check in. Better yet, consider someone who challenges you from “that side” and ask God to soften your heart towards them. Find a way to connect with nature. There are many options to explore and I encourage you to build a bridge of connection in some way this week.
-- Susan Oakes, Seminarian
Susan Oakes is a rising senior at the Seminary of the Southwest in Austin, Texas. This summer, she is serving as a seminarian intern at Saint Stephen's, her sponsoring parish for ordination.
Question: In what ways do you feel separated? connected?
Daily Challenge: Many bridges exist. What bridge are you approaching…does it need repair in any way? Does it involve others in any way? Does it offer a way to connection for someone else? Take steps towards building a bridge this week.