Fireworks on the Charles (a Lectionary reflection by Steve Orr)

I've watched fireworks from a lot of different locations; among them, my own backyard (at a considerable distance), the 50th floor of the Prudential building (up close, at eye level), a farm team baseball field in Midland, Texas (very loud), the boardwalk at Boston Community Boating "down by the banks of the river Charles." Each had its own caché, it's own pluses and minuses. But it was that last one that I most recall these days.

The date was July 4, 2002. We were sitting in chairs on the boardwalk. It was a very special night. Firstly, we were there because we had purchased tickets from BCB to help fund their program to teach the youth of Boston to sail. The fundraiser was important because BCB will not turn away any child who wants to learn, even if they lack the ability to pay. Those two chairs and the small box dinners that came with them were pretty costly. But we were more than happy to pay the price. It was for a great cause, and it could be argued there were no better seats for what was to come.

In addition to front row seats for one of the (if not THE) best firework displays in the country, we were just a few yards from the Hatch Shell on the Esplanade. From there, The Boston Pops would provide patriotic musical accompaniment to the colorful explosions, including pairing the riotous 1812 Overture with the visually stunning fireworks finale.

But something else made it more special than usual. It was the first celebration of Independence Day since the horrific events of 9/11. As a nation, we needed to send a message to the world, a message that clearly communicated our determination to continue living our lives. And what better way to do that than to celebrate the anniversary of our Declaration of Independence out in the open, with bright fireworks and loud music.

Yes, armed soldiers stood on the decks of gunships plying up and down the Charles River that night; more than a little unnerving to see as they cruised by just a few feet off the boardwalk, but also strangely comforting as the celebration rose in intensity.

We needed to be, unmistakably, seen and heard. By everyone. So, all across the nation that night, we were bright, colorful, sparkly, and, oh so loud. I can't imagine anyone, anywhere, did not receive THAT declaration.

All of this came to mind when I read the Matthew selection from this week's Lectionary scriptures. Now, I KNOW I can't write a Lectionary reflection about one of Katy Perry's song. I get that. Too much controversy. But if I COULD write such a reflection, I know which song I would choose. And I bet YOU can guess that song without TOO much difficulty [a clue is cleverly secreted somewhere in the title of this reflection].

The bottom line: People need to be able to identify us, without having to turn over a bushel in order to check the strength and quality of our light.

We need to be obvious. We need to be, unmistakably, the people of God

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http://lectionary.library.vanderbilt.edu

READINGS FOR THE COMING WEEK
Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany (February 9, 2014)

Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12)
Psalm 112:1-9 (10)
1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16)
Matthew 5:13-20

"You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid. No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:14-16 NRSV)

“Here’s another way to put it: You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:14-16 MSG)

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I hope you can join us for Lectionary Breakfast, Friday morning. We gather at 8:00, enjoy colorful and tasty food, bright and sometimes raucous conversation, and the pleasure of each other's company.

Bushels checked at the door 😇

Enjoy the week!
Steve