11-21-24

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
November 21, 2024
As some of you may be aware, a prominent voice in the Christian movement died Monday. Tony Campolo was a gift to many of us who believed following Jesus included actively living with compassion and concern for the most vulnerable and refusing to remain quiet in the face of injustice. Tony was a Sociology Professor at Eastern College for many years, while also preaching the Gospel across the country and around the globe. His style of preaching included storytelling, and though there are many lengthy stories that were inspiring and informative to me, I have always liked this short one. Tony said,

A friend of mine was taking a tour of an inner-city church with a huge social ministry that included a soup kitchen. He was there just before the noon hour. The kitchen crew had gathered in a huddle to pray before they opened the doors for those seeking a meal. Among the prayers lifted up was one by an elderly woman who simply said, “Lord, we know you’ll be comin' through the line today, so help us to treat you well.”

Much of Tony’s ministry was dedicated to helping the world recognize the divine image within every single person. Tony frequently spoke about St. Francis of Assisi as one of his spiritual heroes, emphasizing Francis’s teachings on being mindful of the ways the Living Christ manifests in unexpected places.

For all the powerful witnesses who inspired and strengthened our faith, we give thanks! And for those who have joined you, Merciful God, in your Kin(g)dom that knows no end, we cautiously acknowledge how their work is looking for folks just like us. May their bold Christ-like living find a seamless transition to those of us in this moment, as Jesus is always inviting another generation to carry this good work into the future. Amen.