The readings for today (Psalm 112; James 5:13-20) deal with suffering, illness, and healing prayer. That's not what's on my mind right now.

I spent most of the day in a long Diocesan Executive Committee meeting, dealing with some hard issues, and mostly feeling some sense of accomplishment. It was too bad that one particular issue surfaced at the very end, leading to an inconclusive discussion that left a bad taste in my mouth.

Tonight is our parish Vestry meeting. (Vestry here is what some places call parish council.) We also have some serious issues to deal with, particularly in the areas of youth ministry and financial administration. I have every confidence that there will be sufficient good will to get down to work, and to listen to each other lovingly and caringly.

The church needs healing, on many levels...
I pray that our work in these meetings may help to heal its wounds.
God be with us as we meet again!