Why say “no” when it feels so good to say “yes”? – August 7

Today’s Readings: AM Psalm 87, 90; PM Psalm 136, 2 Samuel 12:15-31; Acts 20:1-16; Mark 9:30-41

Then Jesus took a little child and put it among the twelve disciples; and taking it in his arms, he said to them, ‘Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes not me but the one who sent me.’  (Mark 9:36-37)

A wise friend and pediatrician gave us parenting advice when our daughter was younger. He said, “Regardless of what else is going on or how tired you are, spend 30 minutes of uninterrupted time with your child each day, doing exactly what they want to do. It will be a point of connection and fulfillment for you both.” There are many days that I fail at this challenge. There are other days I forget about it all together. And then, there are the days when all things click, and Bryson’s words wander through my mind. Last night was one of those nights. Josephine wanted me to join her in watching an episode or two of the long-running animated sitcom The Simpsons, known for its satirical social commentaries about American life. It was late and I was tired, and I considered saying no and enforcing the time for bed. And then, I blurted out “yes”!

Josephine happily cuddled up in her favorite spot on the sofa and cued the show. To my amusement, one of the episodes featured a spiritual awakening of an unlikely character. Set around Christmastime, Krusty the Clown was seeking a reconciliation with his daughter Sophie. In an odd turn of events, he saw an image of Jesus Christ in Moe’s Tavern, the local watering hole, and decided to convert from Judaism to Christianity. As such, his crass comedy show experienced a change of tone: Krusty opted to feed the hungry rather than throw a cream pie in someone’s face. He highlighted a sober contemplation hour. He introduced the comedian lineup, including Larry the Fable Guy and Joe Piscopalian. The cartoon crowd was disappointed by the drastic shift. I was highly entertained by the puns and content…and even more pleased to watch with Josephine.

What a gift! All because I said yes to my daughter’s invitation to spend time together.

As I reflect on Mark 9, Jesus is dealing with heavy stuff. He knows what is ahead. And he sees what is around him right now: arguing, conflict, sickness, hunger. Jesus – always the teacher – takes a moment to instruct his friends about priorities. First, he sits down. He is making space to slow down. Then, he calls them to join him, inviting them to rest and get a different perspective, too. When sitting among them, Jesus does not reiterate his question about the topic of the disciples’ spat about favoritism. He speaks to them plainly to the heart of the matter, “Whoever wants to be first must be last of all and servant of all.” Being first in line with Jesus is not easy…it often takes us to a posture of sacrifice and humility, rather than security and glory.

Then, Jesus brings a little child into their midst…one small enough to be held in a grown man’s arms, yet old enough to be placed among them. Holding the little person, he continues, “Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me,” holding space for this child – whether wiggly, disinterested, or curious. Jesus is grounding his friends in what is important, showing hospitality and respect for the humanity of a child, just as they would for their teacher. In doing so, they are welcoming Jesus and God the Father, who sent him. It is a lesson in the interconnectedness of love and hospitality.

If you have the good fortune to be around young people in the next day or two, welcome them into your midst. Receive their ideas. Let them move and surprise you. And know that in doing so, Jesus is present, too.

Katherine+

Questions for Reflection

Where in this story of Jesus’ interaction with the disciples do you see yourself? Where would you rather be in this story?

What is meaningful to you about the concept of welcome?

Daily Challenge

Take a moment today to sit. Invite someone to sit with you. Share stories of how being welcomed has revealed Jesus to you.