Let’s begin today with St. Luke’s description of a casual but remarkably significant dinner gathering on the Sabbath somewhere in Jerusalem. On that invitation list are Jesus, a leader of the Pharisees, presumably more members of that group, lots of onlookers and curiosity-seekers, and a man suffering and then healed from dropsy. It is the only recorded instance of the healing of this particular disease by the Lord in the New Testament. Dropsy (ύδρωψ), derived from “hudor,” the Greek word for water, is essentially an abnormal swelling of fluids in different parts of the body, mainly the abdomen, and is known today as edema. As we look around the room, there is certainly a clear parallel being drawn between the Pharisees inflicted with a spiritual disease and the man suffering from dropsy, a physical disease.
Here is another interesting detail that supports the parallel in the text: “In front of him, a man was suffering from dropsy.” Why doesn’t it say “in front of them?” The room was apparently crowded, so this detail is critical to unlocking the deeper meaning. It says only him because Jesus was alone in seeing right before him what the others in the same room could, or would not see in themselves. Jesus could see the dropsy, the swelling of water and fluids in the body, the physical sickness of the suffering man, and, he was keenly aware of the spiritual dropsy of the Pharisees: “a drunkard’s thirst, a glutton’s hunger, water (like the swelling bodily fluid) that was on fire,” referring to their self-righteous hypocrisy that increases rather than quenches the spiritual thirst of the soul.* You see, the Pharisees added burdens for the people to follow because they used religion as a cover to do whatever they wanted. Rules, regulations, and commandments are all good guides and clear posts to follow the Lord, but if one’s heart is full of pride and sin without love, grace, mercy, and freedom, it is then full of disease, empty of virtue, overflowing with evil, and completely devoid of wisdom.
And here is the underlying application for our spiritual lives: we know the Pharisees are the real diseased folks in that room because they did not recognize Jesus, even as He was standing there right in front of them, ready to recline among all of them to eat. Imagine further, the moment when the man with all the swelling was suddenly healed: it must have been an astounding sight. And all they had to say was that he shouldn’t have been healed on the Sabbath? I’m sure the man with dropsy was sure glad he was!
One thing is for certain in this Christian life we are trying to follow: we will face rejection, endure conflict, and either be harshly judged or even be the one who is judging. And through it all, we pray to have eyes that see the best in people, a heart that forgives the worst, a mind that forgets the bad, and a soul that wants to recognize the face of Jesus as often as possible.
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.”