Thursday, July 17, 2008

Sojourner's Service

Last Sunday was one of the most emotional Crossings services I have been to. It was done like a baptism service, with many stories and readings with songs in between. Many people were there -- Kali and Greg, Don and Heidi, Jen and Nathan... It was a recognition of Crossings as a crossroads. It is a place that people journey through. A community shaped by the traveler and a community that shapes the traveler as they pass through.

We read of Noah, Abraham, Moses, Ruth, Jonah... all on journeys. All discovering God's purpose in their lives. We sang the blues and "This Road" and many other songs that highlight the ups and downs along the way. We prayed for each other and all the sojourners who have spent time with us.

The last story was the road to Emmaus. In this text, Jesus, recently risen from the dead, joins some disciples on the road to Emmaus. The disciples don't recognize him. On the way, he explains the mysteries of the scriptures. Touched, they ask him to join them for dinner. He does. And as he breaks bread, they recognize him. Immediately, he disappears.

This is Jeff's favorite Gospel. Jesus appears. Joins us at the table. then leaves mysteriously and we are left around the table talking about it. His message to Corey and Nancy and for all of us is, as we travel, Jesus is with us and the body, the community of the church is with us. And when we sit at the table and break bread, we are all there together. God bless you, all who are out there on the journey, in spirit you are with us.

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