“These, therefore, are the festivals of the LORD on which you shall proclaim a sacred assembly, and offer as an oblation to the LORD burnt offerings and cereal offerings, sacrifices and libations, as prescribed for each day.” Today we have the awesome juxtaposition of biblical bookends, which is amazing when we think about the composite unity of the Bible: The Old Testament prepares for the New Testament, and the New fulfills the Old. In our First Reading, Moses sets the stage for Jesus in the Gospel. God has commanded the Law-Giver to speak to His people and prepare them how to live and celebrate their lives with the Lord in their midst.
“A prophet is not without honor except in his native place and in his own house.” Enter Jesus thanks to St. Matthew for us today: The Lord returns to the place where He was raised among many with whom he probably played with and worked side by side, and the reaction was overwhelmingly awful. We are unaware of the personal reaction Jesus experienced because of this hometown rejection, but we do know the consequences: “And he did not work many mighty deeds there because of their lack of faith.” What a terrible chapter made only worse if you and I repeat it.
These are at least startling applications. First, we are called upon to speak the truth in the most respectful, Christian, and heartfelt approach possible, in a phrase, just like Jesus. For some, that is easy; for others, who shy away from confrontation, it is ghastly. The other is perhaps just as challenging. When we hear the truth, however uncomfortable and disturbing, we must take the time to remember that we are put here on this earth to grow more and more like Christ and take every chance to face what is true about ourselves, reckon with our actions, and if necessary, admit our faults and change our behavior. Otherwise, we might be appropriately cast in the pile of those who do not want to hear the truth because they do not want their illusions destroyed.
“The truth hurts but silence kills.” Mark Twain
Board Member
Everyone needs to have a Ray “Redfish” for a friend or at least to meet one like him before you leave the planet. He has never been known to interrupt a single person, say an unkind thing, although he did come close during the last Dallas Cowboy game, or leave any food on his plate. Ray wants to live in a world where Jesus is Lord, life is sacred, and blessings never end.
Board Member
Grateful for an amazing group of friends and a life that has been blessed and enriched by so many, Andrea brings a deep joy and dedication to the mission of CityOfAgape. She is detail-oriented and uses her experience and foresight to proactively address the needs of those around her. When you speak with Andrea, you feel like you’re the only one in the room.
Board Member
Father David comes from the land of Iowa where you can get sunburn and frostbite all in the same week. He has the mind of an architect and the soul of a musician. Father David has given his heart to Jesus and truly lives in the Kingdom. An accomplished guitarist, drummer, phenomenal preacher, he has the voice of a baritone angel. His prayers are powerful and his humor, well… it’s Iowan.
Secretary/Treasurer
Every day, for nine months, an intermittent light rain falls in Seattle, Washington. Those days are brightened by the warm smile and hopeful outlook on life that Angelyn brings to every encounter. Her financial expertise and engaging conversation has ensured great things ahead for CityOfAgape. Her life is filled with a constant welcome that is focused and friendly.
President
Jacqueline’s life epitomizes hard work, creative service and complete dedication, not only to CityOfAgape, but also to her husband, Joshua, and her beautiful children. Her smile, even when things are difficult, is refreshing and comforting. In most currently used English dictionaries, under the word “energy,” you will find Jacqueline’s picture.
Secretary/Treasurer
Janice is not only meticulous in reviewing records and requests for Scriptures, but her eyes well-up with joyful tears when you ask her about all the letters she has received from the thousands of Bible recipients over the years. She loves gardening and listening to the earth; her life is like a long stroll through an intriguing and engaging nature center.
Board Member
Father James’ priestly service has taken him to four different countries, many parish settings, and in contact with more friends that rivals most politicians. One of his favorite quotes is by G.K. Chesterton, “Let your religion be less of a theory and more of a love affair.” If there are sounds of a lively discussion, mixed with hearty laughter and the aroma of a good cigar, Father James can’t be too far way.
Founder and President Emeritus
The minute John walks through the door, your IQ goes up. He embodies the remarkable talent of grasping the bigger picture while juggling multiple points of view, in a world where many are very one-sided. Always happy, even when he is sad, John is ready to challenge and comfort all in the same breath. Where some only see problems, John sees the bright promise of tomorrow. His inspiration and memory will outlast his years on earth. John always says, “there are always miracles where there is great love.”