Authority is one of the things that, when used wisely, is one of the greatest assets to human development and peace, but when misused by the corrupt, it is simply and hopelessly bent on self-promotion and destroys anyone who is in the way. When God imparts authority onto His Chosen, we know that it is for a great and powerful reason: “They shall do no wrong and speak no lies; nor shall there be found in their mouths a deceitful tongue; they shall pasture and couch their flocks with none to disturb them.” Moses, for example, was clearly a stellar figure in the Old Testament, and as “Lawgiver” from his post on Mount Sinai, he prefigured Jesus wonderfully and majestically to complete the full cycle when Jesus came down the mountain to give us the powerfully loving Beatitudes. His authority given to him by God led him to faithfully and effectively use that power without coercion, force or manipulation. This is why the Alleluia Verse today is brilliant when we are reasonably instructed that “Rejoice and be glad; your reward will be great in heaven.”
As we move into the New Testament lessons of the day, we realize all too well that we live in a world where authority is used without justice and power is wielded mercilessly upon the powerless. It reminds us of what Thomas Paine maintained when he wrote, “to argue with a person who has renounced the use of reason is like administering medicine to the dead.” In stark contrast, Jesus taught with love; His authority was one of commanding care and complete providence for everything we need to get back home to Heaven. This is the depth of love, which is why St. Paul was so insistent that when we would follow the Lord and respect His authority of love for us, that we should be free from unnecessary fret and worry: “Whoever boasts, should boast in the Lord.”
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Today, as reported in the Gospel, we also may find ourselves astonished and overwhelmed with the bright hope of what our lives can be if we submit to the authority that Jesus embodies with us even now. He loves every one of us as if there is only one of us! How could we go wrong by acknowledging the awesome authority of love?
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.”