"He has gone out of his mind." (Mark 3:21)

    This Sunday's Gospel Reading includes these words, spoken by people about Jesus!   Some people thought He was possessed by a demon.
     Jesus didn't say and do things as people expected.  Hmm..  That sounds a little like the  8 words that we often hear in churches, "We have never done it that way before!"
     Over the years, I've seen and heard a lot of things from different people in the several churches where I've been a member, and served as pastor.  And honestly, I've learned a lot!  People can do things differently and sometimes it is better than the ways we have done.
     I think many of us will agree that we all get into habits and ways that can be improved.  And sometimes we need to be challenged to change our ways!  Yes, I said that word:  "change"!   I am certainly an example of change.  Many of you know my story of the big change I made just 6 years ago.  Changes that include my denomination, theology, and inclusion of a community of people that I honestly didn't know much about at all!  So if I can do that, then each of us can look at what we're believing and doing, and be at least open to change!
    And that means that you and I may not do things as other people do them.  Or we may not see people as others do.  Just as Jesus did.  
    As a favorite preacher and author of mine (Michael Curry, former Bishop of the Episcopal Church) writes in his book, "Crazy Christians", 
"What the Church needs, what this world needs, are some Christians who are as crazy as the Lord.  Crazy enough to love like Jesus, to give like Jesus, to forgive like Jesus, to do justice, love mercy, walk humbly with God--like Jesus."  (p. 3)
    And so I invite you to be crazy!  And we'll be in good company:  with our Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ!

Blessings,
​Pastor Steve