Trinity Episcopal Church

August 29, 2010

Fr. Rick’s Reflections

In chapter 13, the Book of Hebrews cautions us, Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it. Interesting theology, isn’t it? In essence the writer is saying be careful how you treat a stranger---it could be Gabriel in disguise. I remember one particular time an angel entertained me. I was ten-years-old. After Sunday School and before the morning service, I stood in the foyer of the West Michigan Avenue United Methodist Church in Saginaw staring at a huge painting of Jesus: He stands outside a closed wooden door preparing to enter. Brush and thorns vine up the sides; a bat perches upside down in the shadow; at His feet lay a couple of apples; night settles in; Jesus holds a lamp; His head bears two crowns, one of thorns the other gold; His eyes are big and intense. What did He want? What was He thinking? Did He want in? Suddenly, in the foyer, there stood a man next to me, staring at the same imposing painting. I glanced at him. He never looked at me, but as he gazed at the painting he casually said, “Notice that there’s no door knob on that door?” I looked back at the giant picture. “You have to open the door from the inside.” he added The old wooden door seemed heavy, thick, strong and tightly locked up. Then the man/angel offered his final message: “That door is the door of your heart! Only you can let Jesus inside.” It was a very mystical moment, and I didn’t even know what mystical meant. Then, honest to Gabriel, I looked to my side and the guy was gone! He must of vaporized right out the window screen. I ran and enthusiastically told my older brother, “Jesus wants to walk through the door but you have to let Him in!” Typical of a young teenager, Don responded, “So.” I told my mom, “Mom, your heart has a door and you have the handle!” She patted my shoulder as we sat in the pew and whispered, “That’s nice dear, now shut up, the service is starting.” At home, in the backyard, I told my friends what happened at church. The kids listened in wonder and childlike faith. They all thought it was pretty cool, then ran off to form a baseball game. They said nothing more, all except for little Nancy Naples who lagged behind to say it sounded like pre-adolescent existential angst (she grew up to be a psychiatrist). I’ve remembered my angel all my life, and interestingly enough, I am still telling people that Jesus knocks at the door of their hearts. So, Gabriel and I are wondering, how will you respond? “So“? “That’s nice, now shut up“? Or will you “listen in wonder” and dare to answer the knock and let Him in? Jesus stands waiting, and perhaps, so does Gabriel.

Fr. Rick

Trinity Episcopal Church

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August 29, 2010