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As we celebrate Independence Day this weekend, we lift every voice to the dawn\u2019s early light and the words of Jesus from the gospel of Matthew. \u00a0Leaving behind the worn-out broken paths and unbearable burdens of our own lives, is counter to what the gods of this world, to which we have yoked ourselves, promise and proclaim.\u00a0 And this invitation to his yoke and burden is not without cost. \u00a0Total humility before God and one another is the price of true freedom.\u00a0 Who is not weary, and does not want rest?\u00a0 The challenge of fulfilling the promise of liberty and justice for all is clear.\u00a0 And far from being merely comfortable words, Jesus\u2019 invitation is a call to action, echoing the words of the prophets before him, and Amos\u2019 cup of rushing waters of justice and righteousness.\u00a0\u00a0 We are \u2018prisoners of hope\u2019 the prophet Zechariah reminds us as he pointed to an anointed donkey rider whose blood \u2013 even in rejection – would seal God\u2019s covenant.\u00a0 The great Roman Catholic monk, Thomas Merton wrote, \u2018To hope is to risk frustration.\u00a0 Make up your mind to risk frustration.\u2019\u00a0 So, the risk and the cost are clear in the promise of Jesus the Hope Incarnate.<\/span><\/p>\n O\u00a0God, you have taught us to keep all your commandments by loving you and our neighbor, grant us the grace of your Holy Spirit as we pray today for our nation:Lord God Almighty, you have made all the peoples of the earth for your glory, to serve you in freedom and in peace: Give to us and the leaders of our country a zeal for justice and the strength of forbearance, that we may use our liberty in accordance with your gracious will; through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" \u201cCome to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.\u201d … Continue reading 7\/5 The 5th Sunday after Pentecost: Hope Incarnate<\/span>