My home congregation youth group took a yearly canoe trip.
When we got to camp, we would go to cabins and then down to the lake where we
learned to select a paddle, how to use it, and water safety. Then we got into
canoes to practice our technique.
For many, it was the first time they were in a canoe. For
some it was old hat, but the goal was to learn our group strengths and
weaknesses.
The following day, we traveled by van with our canoes to the
drop off point. There we sorted out our gear, loaded the canoes and started our
journey down stream to our pick up point.
At the beginning of the trip we were clumsy and slow, but by
the end of the trip we were fairly accomplished. What was most apparent though
was the ability of the group to work together in order to get something done.
During the time together people shared life stories, taught
one another ways of getting things done and shared strengths (literally, when
portaging, and figuratively, with patience and understanding).
People who had no camping or canoeing experience at the
beginning of the trip came home with new found abilities. Many returned with
greater tolerance and understanding of others. It started with leadership and
training, but it became the shared work of all.
Today we are told that we have a high priest in the person
of Jesus Christ . He has come to know our
shortcomings and failings. He has not failed himself, but continues to instruct
and teach by his leading.
We often claim that we cannot do the tasks of witness and
evangelism or that we are not good teachers, singers or readers. Our fear of
incompetence prevents us from putting our paddles in the water. Our fear is
greater than our commitment to the journey we share.
In the waters of baptism we have been called by our great
high priest to serve one another so let us approach God’s throne with boldness.
We are assured of mercy and grace. Together we have been given all of the gifts
we need to succeed.
Prayer
Lord, you came that we might learn your ways of salvation.
Give us boldness to enter fully into your kingdom community. Amen
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