From the Rule of Life:
We will be present to our faith community, engaging in worship, fellowship and mission.

There are a few common strands being weaved together this week.  It’s our first blog post in this new series as the executive team of Lockerbie Central wrestle with the Rule of the Life in real, meaningful, life- and world-changing ways.  I’m the new guy around Lockerbie, posting our first entry in this new series.  Our topic this month: Presence, and I was present Sunday night for my first formal worship experience at LC.  Anytime we have “firsts” like these, it’s often helpful to be reminded of our tradition as  our progressive approach to living the way of Jesus is reinforced by the stories he told.

Sunday Rebecca reflected on the Lectionary text from Matthew:  The parable of the day laborers.  The workers who joined late in the day receive the same rewards as those who put in a long day’s work.  This is to teach us something of the Kingdom of Heaven.  But what?

Let’s dig deeper.

The gospel text is paired with Exodus from the Hebrew tradition this week.  Exodus 16: Quails and manna--I believe this was the small-plate special at Black Market last weekend with a pale ale.  The Exodus narrative finds grumbling Hebrews, a nerve-wrecked Moses, and a covenantal God character striking a deal.  The Divine will provide sustenance for the Hebrews to sustain their journey toward the covenant at Sinai.  Here’s the catch (pay attention here): Those who gather too much manna, by the time they reach their temporary dwellings, it’s been reduced to just enough; those who gather too little will find their volume increased to provide what is needed.

Jesus’ day laborers parable is a retelling of the Exodus story.  Those who spend 50, 60 hours a week juggling non-profits, community commitments, job requirements will find their reward no greater than those who balance faith, family, work, and community.  Those who require the strength of others to provide their needs will not be chastised nor degraded but will find their needs met joyfully from those who may provide.

I worked to be present to my faith community this week, and I did engage in worship Sunday evening, fellowship following, and mission through my relationships.  I have been serving on the LC executive team for some weeks now before actually attending a service.  My manna basket had become too full, my day laboring too long.

The Divine does not wish greed nor self-sacrificing humility, but desires we find balance in our lives that our cup of faith, family, and community each be just enough.  Being present is being balanced.  When you see me next on Sunday warmly greet me so that we both are reminded to be present in that moment.


Posted by Adam
@adamhayden

Members of the executive team recently committed to hold each other accountable in living out our Rule of Life.  Each week a member of the team will post here our progress and our struggles.  We hope you find hope and encouragement as you read about our experiences.