27 May 2022
Friday of the Sixth Week of Easter
Although the resurrection of Jesus may have astounded the disciples, perhaps a close second in causing a complete shock was the realization that salvation, which first came from the revelation to the Jews, now was open to all men and women. The relationship solidified in the Exodus and the years of wandering in the desert, along with the codification of practice and ritual that occurred after the Babylonian exile, created among the Jewish people a sense exclusiveness between God and his chosen people. We all enjoy an occasion when we get a “special” entrance, an exclusive sitting or are considered as part of a limited group. Who wants to be part of the crowd if there is a possibility of being with the “in” crowd? As Groucho Marx said, he would never consider joining a club where I would be admitted. So, you can imagine the surprise if not shock when Paul announces that the lake property surrounding a pristine lake in central Wisconsin famous for the presence of walleyes and large mouth bass is now being open to the busting point for people from the South side of Chicago. But of course, that was the shock of the resurrection, that all are invited.