Memorial United Methodist Church

2007 is over. 2008 is born. The first month is named after a Roman god, Janus. This god is known for looking backward and looking forward – at the same time. 

Recently eight of us visited the Exodus Group at a prison in upstate New York. Some of these men have completed the New York Theological Seminary program that graduates people in prison. Some are Christian, Muslim or of no particular faith. They lifted their concerns, such as how to complete the life goals on which they are working, keep becoming better fathers, reconcile with folks they live with and folks outside, keep preparing for possible parole hearings, and complete the study programs they are in. 

We, the men of Exodus and the men and women of Memorial, used this litany at the end of our visit: “The past is accepted, the present is received and the future is open.” 

The past cannot be changed, but it is our wisdom. It offers us so much knowledge if we will accept our acceptance in spite of all the things we have done that are unacceptable. This moment, right now, is received. We have the power to decide what we will do in the present. The future is not closed and set, leaving us with no options. Rather it is open and we get to make choices.

From Janus, Huancayo, the Ecumenical Institute and the Trinity, we learn how to stand in the present. We raise up the year 2007, lifting it in our hands above our heads to God, as we say thank you for 2007. It is over and we offer it back to God, like we offer a loved one when we are graveside. 2007 is accepted. At the same time, we also cradle 2008, believing the promise of God to be with us – no matter what. 2008 is so new and so vulnerable, in need of our love, wisdom and courage. We offer 2008 to God as we hold a child for her or his baptism. This is quite a posture – our arms stretching up above us and, simultaneously, our arms in front of us reaching inside. 

We probably could use a choreographer as we learn to express that the past is accepted, the present is received and the future is open.

Peace, Salaam, Shalom,
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