Jesus and the Multitudes

I've been away on retreat for most of the past week, gathering with friends from the Aidan & Hilda Community. We meet annually at Shallowford House, the retreat house of Lichfield Diocese, near Stafford. Quite a long drive, but worth it - even with the West Coast mainline not 100 metres from the building!

This year, we have been reflecting on the Desert Fathers and Mothers, and the life of Martin of Tours a century or so later. It has been challenging and refreshing. One of the sayings from the desert was 'Go to your cell, and your cell will teach you everything'. That, of course, is not a prison cell but the quiet place or room - just as Jesus taught his disciples to pray (Matthew 6.6).  Consequently, we were encouraged to spend some of the time alone in our rooms, just waiting on God. It's a bit scary in some ways - you don't know what to expect - and of course you are left alone with your own thoughts. Personally, it has been a disturbing yet revealing time, and a time to be reassured once more of the Father's blessing, even with all my imperfections.

More wisdom from the desert: Do not desire to be listened to and you will have peace. Hmm!

This week, our theme is Jesus and the Multitudes. One of the characteristics of his life on earth was his gracious dealing with crowds of people (like sheep without a shepherd), many of whom (lepers, prostitutes, demon-possessed, tax collectors) would have been regarded as unclean and beyond the pale for many in his day. Conversely, Jesus had harsh words for those who set themselves apart as morally righteous or superior, never associating with the likes of those others. Part of the adventure of faith is to face the challenge of who we are: morally superior, righteous, or - recognising our own failings - being ready to meet with grace any who feel themselves unworthy, excluded or beyond the pale.

In these days when we are only too conscious of divisions in society, it is particularly important to know where we stand.