SEVENTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

PROPER 20

View from the Pew

Today, St. Philip’s and St. Luke’s come together as members of the same Cure, united in worship, fellowship and service. Our theme, “Rooted in Faith: Serving through Adversity,” is especially relevant at a time when the Church and our communities face many challenges.

One important way of responding to adversity is through collaboration - recognizing that although we may be different, we can accomplish more when we work together.

Jamaica provides some interesting examples. In music, artistes who have established their own identities and careers sometimes collaborate to create something greater than either could produce alone. The coming together of Beenie Man and Bounty Killer, for example, demonstrated that differences and even past competition do not have to prevent people from working together.

The business world provides another example. The Gleaner and the Jamaica Observer, despite being competitors, have found areas where collaboration can make practical sense, including sharing printing operations. Each remains an independent newspaper with its own identity, but collaboration in a particular area can create greater efficiency and mutual benefit.

The lesson for us is clear: collaboration does not require us to surrender our identity. It allows us to combine our strengths for a greater purpose.

This has particular relevance for St. Philip’s and St. Luke’s. We are two congregations, each with its own history, gifts, experiences and challenges. Yet we are part of one Cure and, more importantly, one Body of Christ.

The Gospel reading from Matthew 20 reminds us that the workers in God's vineyard did not all arrive at the same time or contribute in exactly the same way. Yet they were all called to work in the same vineyard. The vineyard belongs to God, and our responsibility is to use whatever gifts we have been given for His service.

In Exodus 16, the Israelites faced uncertainty and hardship in the wilderness, but God provided what they needed. Their experience reminds us that even in difficult circumstances, God remains our provider.

Paul's words to the Philippians take this further, encouraging believers to stand firm in one spirit and to strive together. Christian service is not meant to be a solitary undertaking. We are stronger when we stand and serve together.

For St. Philip’s and St. Luke’s, collaboration could mean sharing our gifts, resources and expertise; undertaking joint outreach; supporting our young people; combining resources for community projects; and learning from each other's experiences.

Our Cure Day gathering, therefore, should be more than an annual event. It can be a reminder of what is possible when two congregations rooted in the same faith choose to work together.

 In adversity, we need faith.
In service, we need commitment.
And in ministry, we need one another.

 May God keep us rooted in faith, strengthened by fellowship, and united in service, as we continue to work together in His vineyard.

 Blessed Cure Day!



 Colin Barnett