If you look carefully at this picture of Grace, Allentown, set up as an emergency shelter, especially at higher resolutions too big to reproduce here, there is something optically striking about the picture. Either deliberately or accidentally, the photographer (or his camera!) chose the the sanctuary lamp as the focal point of the picture. The body of he lamp is the most sharply in-focus area of the picture and the tiny flame has a special intensity.
It is that very symbol of the sacramental presence of Christ that will be extinguished as we descend into Good Friday, and stand together at the Cross.
But Saturday night fires will blaze again and lamps such as this one will joyfully receive a new flame, signifying Christ's presence with and in his church. It is in the presence of and in partnership with the Risen Jesus that the Church serves the world. This picture reminds us that the light at the altar does not signify that Jesus is imprisoned in the tabernacle. This picture reminds us that when we understand and rejoice in the resurrection blaze, the light reaches out through stone walls and dark stained glass, and touches the world through our words and deeds. Homeless, hungry, seeking truth, whoever they are, there is light for all.
But back to the photo. Jesus puts us in the picture with the simple words "follow me" and the promise "I am with you always, even to the end of the age." When we rely on that promise and and accept our share of the mission, we discover that the resurrection of Jesus is not a matter of debate--it is a matter of experience. Each of us learns that because he lives, we live--now and in eternity. This experienced learning is no small thing: the powers that Jesus defeated in an eternal moment on the Cross paradoxically remain our enemies and the creation groans for freedom and healing. Until everything comes to its fullness, our living in the light is what God chooses to work with.
I have been out of action for some months now and must sit out for a couple of weeks yet. I am thankful that nobody else has been sitting still. I could only watch with wonder and thanksgiving when so many parishes organized this winter to care for those who might otherwise freeze to death. I have been amazed as parish clergy changed the mind of a mayor. I have some idea of how many of you gave blankets and other supplies, and acted as hosts in church buildings.
The media program in the north and west is another example, a very literal one, of our sisters and brother reaching out through and with light, in this case real photons. We pray that they will touch many. Again, sisters and brothers who walk in the light use their diocesan relationship to organize and make a difference, and the Body of Christ lives out its identity.
It may be that God has put us in these 14 counties in the business of giving new hope on a long-term basis. In any event, I can only be grateful that so many people are bearing the light with generosity and grace. Especially at a time in my life when I could do nothing, the witness of your commitment illuminated my mind, not to mention my heart. You teach the reality of Jesus' resurrection.
May these three days bring the fullness the light to each of you.
Blessings,
+Paul
Maundy Thursday, 2009
Ubi caritas et amor, Deus ibi est.
Bless this House where God and God's children may slumber, even by the side of the altar. Those worth more than many sparrows deserve such splendid habitation, such gracious company...
Posted by: Tobias Haller | April 10, 2009 at 04:00 PM