The Way

Reading today’s readings from Leviticus, Hebrews, and Matthew, Tom – today’s worship leader—asked us to hear these words with Benedictine ears.  We heard in these readings that rules – decrees, commandments – lead us in the way.  Following the rules we find a deeper understanding of Christ.  Conversely we also heard that when we deviate from the way, we are broken and desolate, but that if our heart is humbled and we make amends – when we remember the covenant, the rule, the way – God also remembers.  We are healed; we are chosen; we are his children.

The collect for this week focus us on Jesus as “the way, the truth, the life.”  Benedict created a community that walks in this way.  We continue to find wisdom in these Rules.

Tom also shared the song in the next post:  “Picture of Jesus” by Ben Harris.  Here are the lyrics:

Picture Of Jesus

Credits:  Ben Harper

Original Artist:  Ben Harper

It hangs above my altar


Like they hung him from a cross


I keep one in my wallet
for the times that

I feel lost


In a wooden frame with splinters


Where my family kneels to pray


And if you listen close


You'll hear the words he used to say

It has been spoken


He would come again


But would we recognize


His king among men


There was a man in our time


His words shine bright like the sun


He tried to lift the masses


And was crucified by gun

Some days have no beginning


And some days have no end


Some roads are straight and narrow


And some roads only ben
d

So let us say a prayer


For every living thing


Walking towards a light


From the cross of a king

I’ve got a picture of Jesus


In his arms my prayers rest


I've got a picture of Jesus


And with him we shall be forever blessed