I offer these words for your prayer and reflection this week:
“Love is patient and kind”
says the apostle Paul.
Yes, and love also stands up for truth,
rooted in a vision for justice.
Love does not passively accept the status quo
simply as “what is.”
Rather, love compels us to act
to change the status quo.
It was the apostle who also said to the community in Ephesus,
“speak your truth in love.” (Ephesians 4: 15)
Both are needed,
as one without the other is incomplete.
Yet sometimes, injustices are so great
it is hard to find an ounce of compassion within us.
When we cannot find the grace
to extend compassion,
turn to the Source of compassion,
remembering that the sunshine of God’s love
shines on the “good” and “bad” alike.
May we remember
the words of the Psalmist:
“Steadfast love and faithfulness will meet;
righteousness and peace will kiss each other.” (Psalm 85: 10)
When we are surrounded by such injustices
as we witnessed at the Capitol riots,
let's remember
the words of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.:
"I refuse to accept the view that mankind is so tragically bound
to the starless midnight of racism and war
that the bright daybreak of peace and brotherhood
can never become a reality...
I believe that unarmed truth and unconditional love
will have the final word."
Friends, in this time where we are witnessing far too much systemic racism in our country, let us remember Martin Luther King Jr. and ask how we can continue his legacy. As we watch the three pandemics of racism, disparity, and violence plague our nation and our world, I am inspired by Martin Luther King Jr. ’s deep spiritual convictions that were the foundation of his commitment to the work of racial justice rooted in nonviolent love. This Monday January 18th (from 10am-12pm) is the 11th annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Interfaith Service. Join us as we seek to live into the ideals he set forth. Though the day is entirely virtual this year, there will be opportunities to serve, hear an inspiring speaker from Chaplains on the Way (in Waltham), and reflect on how we can continue Martin Luther King Jr.'s social justice legacy. You can register here: (all are welcome): http://www.brandeismlk2021.eventbrite.com
Later this month, Agape will be starting some small spiritual formation groups, meeting once a month from January to June 2021, with 3-4 people per group. Spiritual discussion topics will rotate monthly (suggestions welcome). If you're interested in taking part, sign up by Monday, January 18th here: https://tinyurl.com/agapesmallgroups2021
Next weekend at our Sunday service we will be reflecting together on how we can integrate the power of retreats into our communal life and our services. We had a number of speakers over the course of 2020, and a lot of food for thought. Here are links to some Sunday services we recorded in case you want to look over the inspiration we received from Asha Nayaswami, Rev. Dr. Kirk Jones, and Rev. Dr. Leon Campbell:
With you in believing that unarmed truth and unconditional love will have the final word,
Matt
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