The Canaanite woman in today’s gospel is a Gentile, an outsider, who is unflinching in her request that Jesus heal her daughter. As Jesus commends her bold faith, how might our church extend its mission to those on the margins of society? In our gathering around word and meal we receive strength to be signs of comfort, healing, and justice for those in need.
And, the middle of August is here!
School starts this Tuesday with a minimum day in San Clemente.
The origins of “August” connect us to our faith in an interesting way. In 8 BC (4 years before Jesus was born), the Roman Senate renamed the month of Sextilis to “August” to honor Caesar Augustus. He is the one mentioned in the Christmas story you will remember. (Luke 2:1). Since Julius Caesar had the month of July named after him, it stands to reason that Octavian Caesar Augustus would have wanted his own month, too. Ego’s being what they are, and all.
But, our identity in Jesus is given in our baptism. What greater identity could there be than to be called a follower of Jesus! You are God’s chosen. Amen.
See you Sunday!
Pastor Rich
Leave a Reply