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July 1st.
2009
CROWDS
As I observed the presumed parents of the players
screaming at the top of their lungs at the court monitor at Hoopfest, I
wondered – when did it become acceptable to shout obscenities at
officials at sporting events?
As I watched the crowd on television “celebrate” their favorite sports
team win a championship I wondered – when did enjoying the sweet taste
of victory become an occasion to riot, burn cars and break store
windows?
As I read the account of Pontius Pilot asking the crowd what to do with
Jesus I wondered - how could those who benefited so greatly from Jesus
turn against him and shout not once but twice, “crucify him!”
I imagine at one time or another all of us have been swept up in the
collective emotions of a crowd. Sometimes this is a powerful moment of
joy and inspiration. Sometimes this is the overwhelming shared sadness
as we witness a major natural or manmade catastrophe.
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of
your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what
is good and acceptable and perfect” (Romans 12:2).
It is challenging for us all not to be caught up in the moment of a
collective response to a given situation, especially when we are
emotionally invested. Yet, as in all times and in all places, we are
called not to conform to the world but rather to discern the will of God
and go forth accordingly.
Blessings,
The Rev. Brian N. Prior, Rector
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