Acolyte with a Costume - November 5

Today’s Readings: AM Psalm 72; PM Psalm 119:73-96; Neh. 13:4-22; Rev. 12:1-12; Matt. 13:53-58

A couple of Sundays ago, I learned a lesson. It was the Sunday of the Blessing of the Costumes—one of my favorite moments at church. Seeing all the creativity fill the nave as the children came forward for a blessing reminded me how joyful, nurturing, and loving our community can be.

And yet, I like a certain level of decorum that sometimes gets in the way. We all have our lines we don’t like to cross. For some reason, I’m perfectly comfortable with kids in costumes coming to church, but I really want the acolytes in their white robes—not standing out too much.

That morning, a young acolyte had worn her Squishmallow costume to receive a blessing. It covered her completely, about five feet cubed, with a little tail that fluttered behind her as she walked. “Father John, can I wear my costume when I acolyte?” she asked.

I tried not to show my hesitation. I love the levity of our community, but I also know there’s a fine line between worship and a circus. “Father John, please,” she pleaded. “I’ll even wear a cross around my neck. I really want to acolyte.”

And so she did. Our nave was filled with costumes and joy, and there she was—processing with the Gospel book, tail wagging, wearing the biggest smile I’ve ever seen.

In Matthew 13, Jesus’ hometown couldn’t see past the familiar boy they thought they knew, and they missed the truth right in front of them. Sometimes the Spirit speaks through the ones we least expect—through children, costumes, and moments that stretch our sense of reverence—and in doing so, opens our eyes to God’s joy among us.

I learned something about faithfulness (and decorum) that morning: God wants our hearts and couldn’t care less about us getting it all right all the time. Thanks be to God.  That girl wanted nothing more than to love God and share her gifts with the community, and she did it beautifully.  I wish I would have seen it sooner.

 John+

Question for Self-rReflection: When have I struggled to see God’s presence or truth because it came from an unexpected person or place?