Wednesday, December 5, 2001

Reread Mark 11:15-19

On this day in history -
1955 - Historic bus boycott begins in Montgomery, Alabama with Rosa Parks

Rosa Parks knew what she was getting into when she sat down on the bus. Jesus knew what he was getting into when he strode through the temple evicting folks.

Rosa was well fortified with community and prayer. Jesus was well fortified with disciples (more than the 12) and prayer.

Today is a call for "community and prayer" in your life. I covet that for you.

Community or family for Jesus was those who pay attention to GOD's presence in their life and the life of the world. Anyone who does so is part of Jesus' faith community (even if our Book of Discipline and Social Principles try to cut GLBTQ persons out of full community participation). A sign for this community is baptism.

Hear the first two questions asked of those baptized into this community of faith and listen for Rosa Parks responding in her action.
     "Do you renounce the spiritual forces of wickedness, reject the evil powers of this world,
       and repent of your sin?"
     "Do you accept the freedom and power God gives you to resist evil, injustice,
       and oppression in whatever forms they present themselves?"

The disease of apartheid in the United States of America is called Segregation. This evil thought itself pretty powerful until "community and prayer" rose up to sit down on it.

What are you teaching and learning about "community and prayer" these days?

Jesus tossed folks out; Rosa sat down. What will you do to give evidence that the Baptismal promises in your life are bearing good fruit? Will you at least ask a pointed question? Will you support the Wisconsin United Methodist Federation for Social Action or a similar organization with your prayers, your presence, your gifts, and your service? Will you see that there is a social justice ministry alive and well in the congregation you live within? Will you find a passion and develop some leadership for "community and prayer"? Of course this list goes on far enough to find you, challenge you, and support you.

Standing up or sitting down we are quick to say "No!" to evil. By such we confess Jesus as our savior, put our trust in his grace and way, and promise to join him in opening people of all ages, nations, and races to the presence of GOD.

Wesley White

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