Today, the Feast of the Epiphany, marks our final reflection for the 2021-22 Seasons of Advent and Christmas. Thank you for joining us on this spiritual journey with the members of our worshipping community.

I never did join Facebook. I fit neatly into the generation that was too old to use it for pictures for dating and too young to use it for pictures of grandchildren. So, when I chose to stay at home with my kids instead of working, when I gained a few pounds or got a bad haircut, or when I voted for the losing candidate, I didn’t have to hear about it from high school classmates or crabby uncles. I especially appreciated this sort of anonymity when I began parish work; there was no one who challenged my feminism, my life ethic, my unfilled academic potential- --all because of my employer. I could minister in peace.

Which is why I was so struck by today’s gospel. Jesus walked into his hometown synagogue and held nothing back. There’s no gray area, no place for equivocation. He showed all his cards and, with very few words, dared those listening to challenge him. With quiet strength, he revealed himself and his purposes to the people. By doing so, he provides a perfect template for all evangelizers: Be confident in our call. Announce our intention to convert hearts. Be fearless in the face of reprisals. Amaze those who listen and seek to receive intent looks. Use few words and avoid arrogance but know that, because we are in the power of the Spirit, we will be satisfied.

Ministering in peace? That’s no longer tenable for me. And truthfully, using few words might be my greatest challenge. But having a role in bringing young people into an encounter with Christ like those in the synagogue that day---that I must do without fear, without wavering, and with trust in the power of the Spirit.

Terry Kamradt
Youth & Young Adult Ministry Team Member

Reflection for Thursday, Jan. 6