Year B, Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany,
January 28, 2024
Deuteronomy 18:15-20, Psalm 111, 1 Corinthians 8:1-13, Mark 1:21-28
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“A Case for Love”
The Very Rev. Kathleen Murray, Rector
Historic Beckford Parish, Mt. Jackson & Woodstock
Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany, Year B
January 28, 2024
I was so moved by the recent showing of the documentary “A Case for Love.” This documentary, based on the teachings and preaching of Presiding Bishop Michael Curry, advocates for loving, exploring themes of compassion, understanding, and human connection in various contexts. It is a beautiful expression of the religious and spiritual teachings within the Christian tradition, particularly The Episcopal Church, where love is central to our faith. In the Southern Shenandoah region, we came together – almost sixty gathered at the two showings at the Harrisonburg Regal, and 15 of us gathered together to break bread together. The documentary opened an avenue for reflection and challenged (and will continue to challenge) us to explore the depth and breadth of our love, faith, and compassion.
In the context of this exploration, I am reminded of the wise words of Paul in his letter to the Corinthians in this Sunday’s epistle: “We know that ‘all of us possess knowledge.’ Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up.” (1 Corinthians 8:1). This scripture, profound in its simplicity, speaks volumes about the nature of true wisdom and understanding. It reminds us that knowledge, while valuable, can sometimes lead to arrogance or a sense of superiority. Love, on the other hand, is humble and nurturing. It seeks not to dominate but to uplift, not to dismiss but to embrace.
I recently saw an episode of “All in the Family” that first aired in 1977 (and, yes, I saw it in its first run). Edith Bunker, played brilliantly by Jean Stapleton, is generally the epitome of love and kindness, unlike her husband, Archie. In this episode, Edith faces a crisis of faith and expresses her anger at God following the tragic murder of her friend, Beverly Lasalle, who was the “other” (in 1977 parlance, a transvestite). Much like the documentary, this episode challenges us to consider how love and faith can be tested in the face of incomprehensible events. Edith’s journey in this episode is a powerful example of the struggles we all face in reconciling our beliefs with the often harsh realities of the world. Yet, even in the face of doubt and despair, her enduring capacity for love provides a beacon of hope and understanding.
In our discussions, prayers, and actions, let us be guided by a commitment to understanding, empathy, and a love that seeks to uplift and support all members of our community and beyond. Let us remember that it is through love that we truly embody the teachings of Christ and bring light to a world in need of compassion.
It’s crucial to acknowledge the challenges we face in embodying the profound message of love and compassion, as exemplified by the documentary “A Case for Love” and the poignant episode of “All in the Family.” Our journey is not without its hurdles. In a world often riddled with conflict, misunderstanding, and intolerance, how do we maintain the strength of our convictions and the warmth of our love? How do we extend this love to those who seem most different from us, to the “other,” as Edith Bunker was challenged to do?
Our responses to these challenges are just as important as our reflections. We have already begun this work through initiatives like the GAP ministry, Emmanuel’s Table, community potlucks, and our scout troops. These are tangible expressions of our love and commitment to our community. But what more can we do? How can we expand our reach and deepen our impact?
I pose these questions not because I can (or should) provide immediate answers but to ignite a conversation that we will continue today and beyond. Let us come together with open hearts and minds, ready to share our experiences, listen to others, and brainstorm ways to further embody Christ’s teachings of love and compassion. May our discussions be fruitful, our prayers sincere, and our actions reflective of the love that is the cornerstone of our faith. Let’s be a place of hope and understanding in a world that desperately needs it. A