Sunday Reflection: "Who do you say that I am?"

Today's reading is brought to you by Mark 8:27.

I've never met John, 

or Elijah, 

or any of those prophets 

your disciples would name,

but I think I know you.

Your eyes twinkle

even when you're serious.

Your hands are gentle

as you touch,

heal,

and embrace.

You move with purpose

to help others, 

speaking less

and doing more.

You pray alone in quiet places.

You're all about hospitality and celebration.

You see us all as your brothers,

your sisters, your mothers.

You are a storyteller extraordinaire.

You spread your arms wide

to invite outsiders in,

and turn "insiders" inside-out.

You aren't afraid 

to call out hypocrisy.

You also notice beauty,

goodness, 

simplicity,

and truth,

and praise it where you find it.

You stand up for little ones.

You invite everyone

into your light.

You offer your suffering

so we can learn to live with our own.

You are peace, 

love, 

joy,

and hope,

personified.

You are the one

we are all called to be,

Blessed and Beloved.

Make us into you.

+Amen.