In the Christian liturgical season of Lent, we prepare ourselves for Easter, specifically the resurrection of Jesus. But we are not going to actually see Jesus, right? Wait, I've heard he's moving into the White House.
Caring Services, Inc. of High Point saw in the White House an opportunity for resurrection. They will provide services to people who are trying to resurrect their lives after years of death in addiction. Our church will partner in this witness to the resurrection. Together, we renovate. Together we serve. And while we work, God resurrects. Lives are reclaimed. Miracles happen.
Neighbors are furious. "Not in my backyard." "Secrecy." "Conspiracy." Sigh.
In Jesus' time, the neighbors were fussy, too. Once, Jesus traveled to the land of the Gerasenes. Met a dude who lived in the cemetery--no closets but he didn't wear clothes anyway. Not a nice place to live. Last updated in the era of death and misery. No plumbing. No shelter. Walk...Away...Quickly...
Jesus greeted him by name. Restored him to health. Clothed and fed him. Wow. God resurrects. Lives are reclaimed. Miracles happen.
Neighbors were furious. Curious first, then afraid, then angry. "Not in my backyard!" They asked Jesus to leave. They asked Jesus to leave.
We read the biblical text and are surprised when people behave this way. How can you be so short-sighted to ask Jesus to leave? Jesus, for pete's sake! Imagine living in a community where Jesus lived and worked and healed. Imagine a community where God resurrects. Lives are reclaimed. Miracles happen. We would never ask Jesus to leave.
The White House lives next door to the church. Jesus has been invited to move in. It will be a nice place to live. Updated in an era of grace and forgiveness.
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