In the Gospel of Matthew, we encounter a powerful and transformative encounter between Jesus and various individuals in need of healing. In the passages of Matthew 9:9-13 and 18-26, we witness the profound impact of Jesus’ compassion and the transformative power of his touch.

In the first encounter, Jesus approaches Matthew, a tax collector, and calls him to be his disciple. Tax collectors were often despised in society, seen as collaborators with the oppressive Roman regime. Yet, Jesus looks beyond societal judgment and extends a hand of mercy and love to Matthew. With a simple invitation, Jesus transforms Matthew’s life, calling him to follow him and be part of his ministry. This encounter reminds us of the boundless grace and forgiveness that Jesus offers to all, regardless of their past or societal status.

As Jesus dines at Matthew’s house, he is confronted by the religious leaders who question his choice of company—tax collectors and sinners. In response, Jesus offers a powerful teaching: “I desire mercy, not sacrifice.” He challenges the rigid religious mindset that values outward acts of piety over genuine compassion and love for those who are marginalized or considered outcasts. Jesus reveals his mission to heal and restore, not only physically but spiritually, reaching out to those who are in need of his touch.

In the subsequent verses, we witness Jesus’ healing touch extend to a woman who had suffered from a bleeding disorder for twelve years and a ruler whose daughter had died. The woman, filled with faith, reaches out and touches Jesus’ garment, believing that she will be healed. In an instant, she is made whole, and Jesus acknowledges her faith and her healing. Similarly, when Jesus arrives at the ruler’s house, he takes the girl by the hand, and she rises from death to life. Through these miracles, Jesus demonstrates his authority over sickness, death, and all forms of brokenness.

These passages teach us profound lessons about the nature of Jesus’ ministry and the way we are called to follow him. We are reminded that Jesus is not distant or indifferent to our suffering. He is intimately involved, ready to extend his healing touch to those who come to him in faith. We see that Jesus’ compassion knows no boundaries, reaching out to the marginalized, the sinners, and those in desperate need. His healing touch brings restoration, not only in physical health but also in spiritual well-being.

As followers of Jesus, we are called to embody his compassionate ministry in our own lives. We are challenged to look beyond societal judgment and embrace the outcast, the marginalized, and the broken. We are called to be agents of healing and reconciliation, extending the touch of compassion to those who are hurting and in need. We are reminded that true righteousness is not measured by outward displays of religiosity, but by the depth of our love and mercy towards others.

Let us reflect on the encounters described in Matthew 9:9-13 and 18-26 and consider the ways in which we can emulate Jesus’ compassion in our daily lives. May we be open to the transforming power of Jesus’ touch, both in our own lives and in the lives of those around us. May we be instruments of healing, extending love, mercy, and hope to a world in need.

In doing so, we become living testimonies to the transformative power of Jesus’ touch, drawing others into the embrace of his love and bringing healing and restoration to a broken world.

May we be inspired by the compassion of Jesus and empowered by the Holy Spirit to walk in his footsteps, extending his healing touch to all we encounter.

Amen.

The Feast of the Holy Trinity is a profound celebration that invites us to contemplate the mysterious nature of God. It is a time to reflect on the doctrine of the Trinity, which affirms that God is one being in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This feast offers us an opportunity to deepen our understanding and appreciation of God’s divine nature and the relationship among the three persons of the Trinity.

The concept of the Trinity can be challenging to comprehend fully. How can God be both one and three? How do we make sense of the relationship between the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit? While these questions may remain mysterious and beyond our complete understanding, the Feast of the Holy Trinity encourages us to embrace the mystery and engage in a journey of faith and exploration.

In contemplating the Trinity, we are reminded of the boundless love that exists within God’s nature. The Father, the Creator of all things, eternally loves the Son, who is the Word made flesh and our Redeemer. The Holy Spirit, the giver of life and the guide of our hearts, proceeds from the Father and the Son, enveloping us with divine love and grace. The Trinity reveals a community of love, unity, and perfect harmony.

As we ponder the mystery of the Trinity, we also recognize its implications for our own lives and relationships. We are called to reflect the love and unity of the Trinity in our interactions with others. Just as the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit exist in perfect communion, we are invited to foster relationships built on love, respect, and mutual support. Our relationships should be characterized by selflessness, forgiveness, and a genuine desire to see others thrive and flourish.

Moreover, the doctrine of the Trinity invites us into a deeper understanding of our own identity as children of God. We are created in the image of a Triune God, designed for relationship and community. Our unity with God and with one another is rooted in the love that flows within the Trinity itself. We are called to embrace our interconnectedness and to extend love, compassion, and grace to all people, recognizing the inherent dignity and worth of every individual.

The Feast of the Holy Trinity also reminds us of the importance of balance in our spiritual lives. We recognize the roles of each person of the Trinity: the Father as Creator and Sustainer, the Son as Savior and Redeemer, and the Holy Spirit as Comforter and Guide. We seek a harmonious relationship with each person of the Trinity, knowing that our faith is not complete if we neglect any aspect of God’s nature.

In celebrating the Feast of the Holy Trinity, we are called to embrace the mystery, awe, and wonder of God’s divine nature. It is an invitation to deepen our relationship with the Triune God and to grow in love and unity within our communities. Let us approach this feast with humility, recognizing the limits of our understanding, and allowing the mystery of the Trinity to inspire and shape our faith journey.

May the celebration of the Holy Trinity draw us into a closer relationship with God, and may we reflect the love, unity, and grace of the Trinity in our lives, shining as witnesses of God’s eternal and boundless love to the world.

The Feast of the Holy Trinity: Embracing the Mystery of God’s Nature

The Feast of the Holy Trinity is a profound celebration that invites us to contemplate the mysterious nature of God. It is a time to reflect on the doctrine of the Trinity, which affirms that God is one being in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This feast offers us an opportunity to deepen our understanding and appreciation of God’s divine nature and the relationship among the three persons of the Trinity.

The concept of the Trinity can be challenging to comprehend fully. How can God be both one and three? How do we make sense of the relationship between the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit? While these questions may remain mysterious and beyond our complete understanding, the Feast of the Holy Trinity encourages us to embrace the mystery and engage in a journey of faith and exploration.

In contemplating the Trinity, we are reminded of the boundless love that exists within God’s nature. The Father, the Creator of all things, eternally loves the Son, who is the Word made flesh and our Redeemer. The Holy Spirit, the giver of life and the guide of our hearts, proceeds from the Father and the Son, enveloping us with divine love and grace. The Trinity reveals a community of love, unity, and perfect harmony.

As we ponder the mystery of the Trinity, we also recognize its implications for our own lives and relationships. We are called to reflect the love and unity of the Trinity in our interactions with others. Just as the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit exist in perfect communion, we are invited to foster relationships built on love, respect, and mutual support. Our relationships should be characterized by selflessness, forgiveness, and a genuine desire to see others thrive and flourish.

Moreover, the doctrine of the Trinity invites us into a deeper understanding of our own identity as children of God. We are created in the image of a Triune God, designed for relationship and community. Our unity with God and with one another is rooted in the love that flows within the Trinity itself. We are called to embrace our interconnectedness and to extend love, compassion, and grace to all people, recognizing the inherent dignity and worth of every individual.

The Feast of the Holy Trinity also reminds us of the importance of balance in our spiritual lives. We recognize the roles of each person of the Trinity: the Father as Creator and Sustainer, the Son as Savior and Redeemer, and the Holy Spirit as Comforter and Guide. We seek a harmonious relationship with each person of the Trinity, knowing that our faith is not complete if we neglect any aspect of God’s nature.

In celebrating the Feast of the Holy Trinity, we are called to embrace the mystery, awe, and wonder of God’s divine nature. It is an invitation to deepen our relationship with the Triune God and to grow in love and unity within our communities. Let us approach this feast with humility, recognizing the limits of our understanding, and allowing the mystery of the Trinity to inspire and shape our faith journey.

May the celebration of the Holy Trinity draw us into a closer relationship with God, and may we reflect the love, unity, and grace of the Trinity in our lives, shining as witnesses of God’s eternal and boundless love to the world.

As Pride Month unfolds, we are reminded of the diversity of human experience and the importance of embracing love and acceptance for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. It is a time when the LGBTQ+ community and its allies come together to celebrate love, equality, and the right to be true to oneself.

As Christians, we are called to reflect on the core tenets of our faith—love for God and love for neighbour. These two commandments, as Jesus taught us, are intertwined and inseparable. In embracing them, we are invited to engage in a deeper understanding of how we can love and support our LGBTQ+ neighbours, affirming their inherent worth and dignity.

First and foremost, love for God calls us to recognize and celebrate the inherent diversity within creation. God, in God’s infinite wisdom, created us in all our unique and beautiful expressions of identity. Our sexual orientation and gender identity are facets of the rich tapestry of human experience, reflecting the immeasurable creativity of our Creator. By embracing and affirming this diversity, we honour and love the God who made us all.

Love for neighbour compels us to extend empathy, compassion, and acceptance to all individuals, including those in the LGBTQ+ community. It means acknowledging and celebrating their full humanity, treating them with respect, and affirming their rights to love, happiness, and self-expression. It is an opportunity to stand alongside our LGBTQ+ brothers, sisters, and siblings, supporting their journey towards self-acceptance and offering a safe and welcoming space for them to be their authentic selves.

Embracing love for God and love for neighbour also requires us to confront our own biases, prejudices, and misconceptions. It demands that we examine our theology and interpretations of Scripture with humility and openness. While there are diverse perspectives within the Christian community regarding same-sex relationships, we are called to approach these conversations with grace, seeking understanding and unity in the midst of our differences. It is a time for us to listen deeply, learn from one another, and engage in dialogue that is rooted in love, rather than judgment or exclusion.

Pride Month serves as an invitation for us to actively engage in acts of love and advocacy. We can support LGBTQ+ individuals and organizations through volunteering, financial contributions, and by being vocal allies. We can educate ourselves about the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community and work towards creating inclusive and affirming spaces within our churches, communities, and families. It is an opportunity to stand against discrimination, hate, and injustice, championing equality and the rights of all individuals to live their lives authentically and with dignity.

In celebrating love during Pride Month, let us remember the words of Jesus: “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another” (John 13:34). May our love for God and our love for neighbour transcend boundaries, embrace diversity, and reflect the transformative power of Christ’s love in our lives.

As we engage in conversations and actions during Pride Month, let us do so with open hearts, seeking unity and understanding. May we be beacons of love and acceptance, reflecting the inclusive and embracing nature of our faith. Together, let us celebrate love in all its forms, recognizing that in doing so, we embody the essence of Christ’s teachings and work towards a more compassionate and just world.

May God’s love guide and inspire us during Pride Month and beyond, as we continue to grow in love for God and love for our LGBTQ+ neighbours.

Amen.

The Feast of Pentecost is a joyous and significant celebration in the Christian calendar. It commemorates the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the early disciples, marking the birth of the Church and empowering believers to carry out the mission of Christ in the world. This feast holds deep spiritual significance, reminding us of the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in our lives and the call to be witnesses of God’s love and truth.

The origins of Pentecost can be traced back to the Jewish festival of Shavuot, which celebrated the giving of the Law to Moses on Mount Sinai. It was during this festival, fifty days after Passover, that the Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples gathered in Jerusalem. The sound of a rushing wind filled the place, and tongues of fire appeared above each person’s head. They were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in different languages, proclaiming the mighty works of God.

The events of Pentecost have profound implications for our faith. First and foremost, it represents the fulfillment of Jesus’ promise to send the Holy Spirit as a guide, comforter, and empowerer. The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity — fully God — and is present and active in the lives of believers. Through this Holy Spirit, we are connected to God, receiving guidance, wisdom, and power to live out the teachings of Jesus.

Pentecost also highlights the unity and diversity of the Church. The disciples, who came from different backgrounds and spoke different languages, were united by the power of the Holy Spirit. The gift of speaking in tongues (Glossolalia) symbolizes the Church’s universal mission to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ to all nations and peoples. It reminds us that the message of God’s love will not be limited by language or cultural boundaries but has the power to transcend all such human divisions.

Pentecost serves as a catalyst for mission and evangelism. The disciples, filled with the Holy Spirit, boldly proclaimed the gospel message to those gathered in Jerusalem, and about three thousand people responded by accepting Christ and being baptized. This event marks the birth of the early Christian community and the beginning of its mission to bring Good news to all people. The Holy Spirit equips and empowers us to share the love and truth of Christ with others, making disciples of all nations.

As we celebrate the Feast of Pentecost, we are invited to reflect on the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in our own lives. It is an opportunity to surrender ourselves to the work of the Spirit, allowing Her to guide and empower us to live in accordance with God’s will. The Holy Spirit convicts us of sin, comforts us in times of difficulty, and empowers us to live as witnesses of Christ’s love and truth in all the places that we go.

Let us embrace the Spirit’s work in our lives, seeking Her guidance, wisdom, and empowerment. Let us be open to Her transformative presence, allowing Her to shape our character, renew our minds, and empower us to live in a manner that reflects the love and grace of Jesus. And may we be bold in sharing the good news of salvation with those around us, trusting that the Holy Spirit will work through us to touch hearts and bring others into a relationship with God.

On this Feast of Pentecost, may our hearts be open to the power and presence of the Holy Spirit. Let us be filled with gratitude for Her transformative work in our lives, and may we be inspired to live as faithful and empowered witnesses of God’s love in the world.

Veni Sancti Spiritus!

The Feast of the Ascension is a significant event in the Christian calendar, marking the ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven. It is a day of celebration and reflection, as we commemorate the moment when Jesus, in his resurrected body, ascended from earth to be reunited with God. This feast holds deep theological meaning and reminds us of the triumph of Jesus” mission and the promise of Christ’s return.

The story of the Ascension is recorded in the New Testament, specifically in the books of Luke and Acts. After his resurrection, Jesus appeared to his disciples, teaching them and preparing them for their future mission. On the fortieth day after Easter, while in the presence of his followers, Jesus led them to the Mount of Olives. There, he blessed them and ascended into heaven, disappearing from their sight as they watched in awe.

The Feast of the Ascension holds several profound implications for our faith. First and foremost, it affirms Jesus’ divinity and eternal nature. The ascension into heaven reveals Christ’s unity with God and role as God’s only begotten. It serves as a reminder of Jesus’ completed mission on earth, fulfilling the purpose of reconciliation.

Secondly, the Ascension highlights the ongoing presence of Christ within the world and particularly within the Church. Although Jesus physically ascended into heaven, the assurance given at the ascension to all those who would be disciples is the sending of the Holy Spirit to guide and empower them. This promise was fulfilled on the Day of Pentecost, which we commemorate ten days after the Ascension. Through the Holy Spirit, Jesus continues to be present with us, guiding, comforting, and empowering us to live out Christ’s teachings and extend Jesus’ love to the world.

Moreover, the Feast of the Ascension invites us to ponder the eschatological hope it represents. As we celebrate Christ’s triumphant return to the heavenly realm, we are reminded of the promise of Jesus to come again. Just as the disciples looked up to the heavens after the ascension, we too eagerly await the fulfillment of the Kingdom on earth.

In celebrating the Feast of the Ascension, we are called to reflect on the implications of Christ’s ascension in OUR lives. It encourages us to trust in Christ’s ongoing presence, to draw strength from the Holy Spirit, and to live as witnesses of God’s incredible love and truth as demonstrated in the life of Christ. Furthermore, it reminds us to anticipate with hope and readiness the time when all things will be made new.

As we commemorate the Feast of the Ascension, let us be filled with gratitude for the salvation given us through Christ’s life, death, and resurrection. Let us embrace the mission that has been entrusted to us as disciples and be inspired by Christ’s example of sacrificial love. And may we live each day in anticipation of a renewed world.

On this Feast of the Ascension, may our hearts be lifted up in praise and adoration, as we honour the triumph of Christ and as we anticipate the fulfillment of the Kingdom in Jesus’ ongoing mission accomplished in and through our lives and ministries.

As an Anglican priest, you may not think of golfing as a particularly religious activity. But let me tell you, when you’re out on the course wearing crazy print pants, it’s like you’re spreading joy and laughter to all those around you.

Picture this: You’re on the green, about to take your shot, and your opponents are staring in disbelief at your neon green and purple paisley pants. They may be thinking, “What is he wearing?” or “Is that a rainbow on his pants?” But little do they know, your bold fashion choice is actually helping to lift their spirits and bring a smile to their faces.

As you swing your club and hit the ball, your pants swirl around in a beautiful display of colours and patterns. It’s like a fireworks show, but on your legs. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a good fireworks show?

Plus, wearing crazy print pants on the golf course is a great way to show off your unique style and personality. You’re not afraid to stand out from the crowd and make a statement. And in a world where conformity is often praised, it’s refreshing to see someone who is willing to break the mold and do their own thing.

So the next time you hit the links, don’t be afraid to rock those crazy print pants. Embrace your inner fashion icon and let your legs be a beacon of joy and laughter to all those around you. Who knows, you may even inspire your opponents to ditch their boring khakis and join you in the world of bold and beautiful golf fashion.

So, whether you’re on the golf course or in the pews, it’s important to embrace your unique style and let your true self shine through. And if that means wearing crazy print pants while you pray or putt, then so be it. Let your light shine, my friends, and may your pants always be bright and bold.

In a world that can feel like it’s falling apart, finding joy can sometimes seem like an impossible task. With so much pain, suffering, and chaos all around us, it’s easy to get caught up in negativity and lose sight of the all the good things that are present around us too. Even in the darkest of times, joy can be found when we are willing to look for it.

Focus on Gratitude…

One of the keys to finding joy is to focus on gratitude. Instead of dwelling on what we don’t have or what is going wrong, we choose to focus on the blessings in our lives. Gratitude can be found in even the smallest of day to day things. Appreciate a sunny day. take time to enjoy a good book. Focus on a kind word from a friend. By cultivating a spirit of gratitude, we can begin to see the world in a more positive light and appreciate the beauty that is all around us, and has been all along.

Connect with others…

Another way to find joy is to connect with others. During days of the pandemic, we found ourselves cut off from others, but even in times of social distancing and isolation, we can still reach out to friends and loved ones through phone calls, video chats, or even handwritten letters. As our world continues to open up, we need to reach out and rebuild our sense of connection with others. By connecting with others, we share our joys and sorrows; we find support; we feel less alone in the world.

One very important aspect of connection that can fill us with joy is found in helping others. My youngest niece and nephew recently celebrated a birthday. They decided that instead of enjoying birthday cake, they would go and each buy a birthday cake, and deliver those cakes to the local homeless shelter. Rather than saying “Happy Birthday” those cakes bore the message “You are loved.” The joy that was found on their young faces was inescapable. Whether you connect through volunteering, donating to a worthy cause, or simply doing a kind deed for someone in need, there is incredible joy to be found in caring for others.

Hope…

Perhaps most importantly, staying hopeful is key to seeing the joy that we often find ourselves needing. It’s easy to feel discouraged when we see pain and suffering in the world, but we must also remember that there is always hope for a better tomorrow. By staying optimistic and believing in the opportunity for positive change, we can experience joy in the journey today, even as we work toward a brighter tomorrow.

Finding joy in a world that can feel like it is falling apart is not always easy, but it is possible. The opportunities to live in joy are there. It is actually the heart of the proclamation of the resurrection that we celebrate during these Easter days — Even at the darkest of places, God intends to break in with hope, new life and joy. By focusing on gratitude; by connecting with others; and by staying hopeful, we can find joy even in the darkest of times. As we celebrate the Easter season and the hope it brings, let us remember that joy is always within our reach, if we are willing to look for it.

Take time for a Meditation…

Take a deep breath and close your eyes. As you breathe in, feel the air fill your lungs, and as you breathe out, release any tension in your body. Allow yourself to sink into a state of relaxation.

Now, bring to mind something in your life that brings you joy. It could be a person, a place, a memory, or simply the feeling of the sun on your face. Allow yourself to fully immerse in this joy, feeling it fill your heart and radiate throughout your entire being.

As you bask in this feeling of joy, take a moment to reflect on the blessings in your life. Think about all the good things that you have, even in the midst of difficult circumstances. Perhaps it is the support of loved ones, the beauty of nature, or the simple pleasures of life. Whatever it may be, allow yourself to feel grateful for these blessings and let that gratitude deepen your sense of joy.

Now, expand your sense of joy by thinking about how you can bring joy to others. Consider how you can share your blessings with those around you, whether through a kind word, a gesture of support, or simply a smile. As you think about bringing joy to others, feel your own joy grow even stronger.

Finally, remember that even in the midst of difficult times, there is always hope for a brighter future. Allow yourself to feel a sense of optimism and possibility, knowing that positive change is always within reach.

As you slowly come back to the present moment, take with you this sense of joy and hope. Know that you have the power to bring joy to yourself and others, even in a world that can feel like it is falling apart.

Prayer…

Dear God,

In a world that can feel like it is falling apart, we come to you seeking joy and hope. We thank you for the blessings in our lives, both big and small, and for the joy they bring us.

Help us to focus on gratitude, even in the midst of difficult circumstances. May we find joy in the blessings that you have bestowed upon us and let that joy fill our hearts and radiate throughout our lives.

Guide us to connect with others. May we reach out to friends and loved ones, share our joys and sorrows, and find support in one another.

Help us to be beacons of joy in the world, bringing joy to others through our actions and words. May we find ways to serve others, bring smiles to their faces, and show them your love through our deeds.

Finally, we pray for hope in the midst of uncertainty. May we stay optimistic and believe in the power of positive change. Give us the courage to work towards a brighter future, knowing that with your help, all things are possible.

We ask for your blessings and guidance as we seek joy and hope in our lives. May your love and grace surround us always. Amen.