The Rev. Karen Burnard
[Note: if you would like to see other Rector's Ramblings, look under Categories on the left side of the page and click on "Rector's Ramblings", or check in recent issues of the Triad. And if you would like to leave a personal message for Karen, send her an email to: htrector(at)gmail.com
From the September Triad:
Rectors Ramblings Septemeber 2011
September marks the 10th anniversary of 9/ll/01.
I remember parishioners who were losing jobs even before 9/11/01, yet so much more has happened, or intensified, in this past decade. We waged war with Iraq. Now we’re in Afghanistan. With NATO we are in Libya.
At home, people of all ages are without jobs, health insurance, homes, schools preparing them for an examined and purposeful life. Some people have witnessed their retirement savings dwindle. Many of us are still working though. We have health insurance, homes, educations which have empowered us to contribute to our broader society, our particular community, our family and friends. Yet, as part of the Body of Christ, we grieve at the losses of others. We become enraged when others are treated without dignity and justice. And we are grateful for the joys of this life, experienced by our neighbors and ourselves.
Jesus taught us to “love God, and our neighbors as ourselves.” In the midst of a storm he told his disciples and friends, “Do not be afraid.” And he assured them he would be with them – always. Some things never change. As psychological games continue to be played in our country and in this world, let us remember how blessed we are, even as we continue to work for and with those who are currently struggling. I know I sound like a broken record, and so does scripture: “Do not be afraid!” Do turn off the news if you’ve watched it already the same day! Bad news sells. We are called to proclaim the good news, in word and deed. There are a number of opportunities to share the good news in September: Serve City, Community Dinner, Benefit Bank (Want to be a counselor?), to name a few.
It is no accident that often when I visit someone who has been feeling blue, they feel better after they have gone to visit or help someone. Who among us hasn’t pushed ourselves to “do something” when we really wanted to stay in the safety and comfort of our own homes … and after we “do something” we feel so blessed and grateful that we pushed ourselves out of the house?
9/11/11 … Let’s make this next decade different. If not us, who?
Every blessing, Karen
