Pastor's Desk-September 2006

From the Pastor's Desk - March 2008

The parable of the Good Samaritan is pivotal in the Christian tradition. A short story found in the gospel of Luke, it is a potent reminder of who we are, and how important it is that we not be trite in our declaration of who constitute the people of God. Categorizing and drawing lines of distinction among people for all kinds of reasons is not unique to our generation. It was certainly a part of the world Jesus came into. And, as a result, when asked by a lawyer what must he do to inherit eternal life, Jesus’ response was a story of healing and restoration. The story tells of a man traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho who was robbed, beaten, and subsequently left for dead. First, a priest passed by and continued on his way. Second, a Levite saw him, passed by on the other side, and continued walking. Then, a Samaritan, traveling on the same road stopped, was moved with pity, and took him into his care. The priest, on his way to lead a service of sacrifice to God was so caught up in his ritual and tradition that he missed an opportunity do what was right. The Levite, one in the tradition clearly set apart for the special service to God, also missed this opportunity to care for one in need. Then, a Samaritan, one who was not part of the people of God as defined by the Levite and the Priest, did what was right in the eye of God. So, we are presented with a very potent, earth-shattering question that must be at the forefront of our thoughts and heart . . . who are the people of God?

Our Christian identity compels us to take seriously the teachings of Jesus. Furthermore, Jesus’ life modeled care and compassion for others while consistently pointing to God the Father. We can do this. As members of a Christian congregation, we can assemble our talents and spiritual gifts for the purpose of teaching others how to care, and simultaneously fit into the human family with our distinctively Christian identity. I believe all people are the creation of God, and therefore all people, as well as the habitat provided for us, fit into God’s care. As Christians we specifically follow Jesus Christ, and therefore are inspired to a life of concern for all people.

On Sunday, February 10, Laraine Marthinsen visited the Federated Church and spoke of a ministry called Interfaith Hospitality Network (IHN). IHN offers hope to homeless families with children by organizing safe, transitional shelters in church facilities. Our congregation is invited to become a partner in IHN together with 12 other congregations to serve the Boston Metrowest area. If we become a partner, we will host families one week at a time, four times a year, for a total of four weeks a year. The families will sleep overnight in our facility, and then go to work or school during the day. If family members are looking for work, a day center in the First Baptist Church of Natick is available for them. This day center is open 365 days a year. Members of our congregation are prayerfully considering this ministry. A plethora of other details are available and forthcoming. If you are interested in talking with someone, I encourage you to speak with someone who was present on February 10. Also, many of our deacons have met and interacted with Laraine and I feel certain will discuss the IHN with you. Or, I am available to talk with you, too. Bless you this Lenten season as we discover together the miraculous wonders of God.

Jason

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