Seventh Sunday of Easter

Witness is a word that seems scary to Episcopalians. We don't want to seem fundamental, or too ideological. However, the simple truth is that we can be a witness in other ways. Ask yourself, "How has someone else been a witness to me in my life?" Was it the way they lived? Was it their faith? Was it their nature? What made them who they are? We were not physically present during the time that Christ walked the earth, but we can all rejoice in that love is the witness Christ came to show, the love of our Father. WE (you and I, the priesthood of all believers) are to be witnesses of Christ. What better way to be a witness than to share love, joy, hope, and peace. The conclusion of the Homily is a quote from St. Francis of Assisi "Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary use words." I believe this attests to how we should attempt to live our lives. You may be the only Bible some people ever read. I want to close by reflecting on another quote that may help you with the thought of witnessing by St. Francis of Assisi; "If God can work through me, He can work through anyone." Amen.

(Acts 1:6-14, Psalm 68:1-10, 33-36, I Peter 4:12-14; 5:6-11, John 17:1-11)

Today's Collect:

O God, the King of glory, you have exalted your only Son Jesus Christ with great triumph to your kingdom in heaven: Do not leave us comfortless, but send us your Holy Spirit to strengthen us, and exalt us to that place where our Savior Christ has gone before; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, in glory everlasting. Amen.