Readings: Genesis 18:1-15 Ps 116:9-17 Romans 5:1-8 Matt 9:35-10:23 GREEN
Sentence: ‘See, I am sending you out like sheep into the midst of wolves; so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.’ Matthew 10: 16
Tena koutou katoa e te whanau o Te Wairua Tapu.
Well whanau, you can sense everything is returning to some normality in Sydney. More traffic on the roads, more people gathering in one spot and more freedom to move about, unless you want to protest, that’s a no-no! But people are still choosing not to listen. While all this is happening, I am being asked when we will return to Te Wairua Tapu and at this stage it could possibly be early next month depending on work getting completed on the church. So not just yet.
Therefore, we have been given more time to consider what we need to do before our return. And in today’s gospel from Matthew, ‘Jesus saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. So he says to his disciples, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest.’ Isn’t this what we have all been waiting for? The whole reason why we have spent so much time in isolation? To prepare us to re-engage with a world that has changed dynamically forever. Where everything is no longer white, black or gray. Everything that was sure, certain and even uncertain, is gone. Structures and institutions are trying to hold onto power while they are being de-constructed at the same time because people no longer trust anybody or any concept and idea that is being presented to them. Instead, they are asking more questions and, the more answers that keep coming, the more questions are being asked. The world we knew and the world we thought we understood is gone. All knowledge, power and control is under seige and people want it all torn down. That is the world we now face.
But like I have said since writing this series of kauwhau. Be still, be patient and wait, be at peace, have faith and trust God. Nothing has changed. When we choose to follow Jesus, we choose to listen and live out his teachings. So Jesus tells us today that when we engage with the world we are to show compassion no matter where we go or whom we encounter because there will be many harassed and many helpless. We are, therefore, called not only to see the pain and suffering of others but to do something about it. But the paradox of the gospels is that Jesus always challenges our thinking and when we think we got it, we don’t and everything is not clear or definitive, yet it is. When we think we know which group or individual we are supposed to help, someone or some thought comes along and we have to alter our thinking and our being.
The other point Jesus states, if you think or expect others to simply follow you, then forget it. There’s plenty of work to do but only a few end up doing it. I’m sure you know what I mean and this resonates with many who understand the sacrifice and commitment required to do any job. The problem when we take up our own cross, we expect everyone else to carry the same cross and do the same thing and bear the same burden. It just doesn’t happen like that. It takes time. And it’s in God’s time not human time. Many are called but few are chosen. So those who are chosen must learn to share the load. Each one must identity where they belong in the picture. Some think they can do everything and don’t need help, others believe they are chiefs but really they’re not and others think they can cook but really they can’t, others say they can do anything but only end up getting in the way. A couple of weeks ago, I alluded to identifying one’s gifts. Have you figured it out for yourselves whanau? Jesus names his twelve disciples. Are you one of the twelve Jesus is calling today? I don’t know. But Jesus is saying, it’s time to move and you better have clarity on what and where you can best serve the church and it’s mission.
Jesus is clear about the mission; As you go, proclaim the good news, “The kingdom of heaven has come near.” This is the message we are called to deliver to the people and don’t expect the people to receive it with their arms opened wide. In other words, God has come through his Son Jesus Christ and therefore your words and your actions have to be real and authentic, if not, you’re in for a hiding to nothing. Why? Because God is the ultimate target that humanity really wants to tear down and destroy. But That’s okay. Our job is to continue planting the seed of God’s love in our little corner of the world at Te Wairua Tapu. And that love is in and through Jesus Christ. That’s all we have to do but we also know it’s not going to be easy. But that’s okay too. Amen.
Collect: Bountiful God, with a generous hand you sow the seeds of the Kingdom. Grant us the grace to cultivate your saplings, that all might find shade in the forest of love. Through Jesus Christ our Liberator, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen
The Venerable Kaio Karipa Chaplain The Sydney Maori Anglican Fellowship Church of Te Wairua Tapu
Readings: Genesis 1:1-2:4a Psalm 8 2 Corinthians 13:11-13 Matthew 28:16-20 WHITE Sentence: Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.’ Matthew 28: 19
Tena koutou katoa e te whanau o Te Wairua Tapu.
Today the church celebrates Trinity Sunday. It’s the day when I am supposed to explain what it all means. In short, the Trinity equals God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit. That’s it. I’ve learnt over the years that when it comes to thinking about God and trying to explain how God functions is something that an individual must discover for themselves. Why? Because today, every person has their own understanding and perspective about God. Some only believe in God, not Jesus or the Holy Spirit. Others believe Jesus is God, therefore, there is no need for God or the Holy Spirit. And then those, who believe we only need the Holy Spirit to lead us to God not Jesus. And the list goes on.
I recall a cousin visiting Sydney about 30 years ago and she came with me one night and she asked, ‘Where are we going?’ It was about 9.30pm and I replied, ‘A whanau has asked if we could go to their whare and have karakia’. My cousin quickly answered, ‘Ea, you’re wasting your time. God won’t hear your prayers, he’s gone to sleep!’ Simple theology but effective and she never went to a theological college like I was privileged to do five years later. Of course, I disagreed with her but didn’t tell her as she would’ve slapped my ears! Then I’ve heard on numerous occasions that we all believe in One God and worship the same God. Seriously? Look around, is all what is happening in the world okay because we worship the One and the same God? People are tired of listening to theological concepts devised by other people that don’t culturally and socially fit with their community. Is my opinion really that important to explain how the Trinity is constructed and how it works? Google Trinity and you will get hundreds of interpretations much better than mine!
For me, when you see people holding bibles and others saying open them up, that’s okay, but the problem is they all need to read what is written inside. And once you have read what is written you apply it to your life. Simple. Well, obviously not. We are constantly told by others this is what it says but remember my job is to interpret scripture not live by it. You see, we were given the Bible and told this is what’s contained inside, you can’t read and you’re not smart enough so we will train and indoctrinate people to teach you about what‘s inside but whatever you do, you can’t think for yourself okay, because you’re not smart enough and you’ll be wrong. So, how’s that been going for you, me and the world?
Whanau, part of my role as a priest is to teach. So I will always challenge and encourage you to think for yourself, especially when it comes to God and your faith. The simplest way I can explain the Bible today is that it’s made up of three sections: 1. The Old Testament (God’s story) 2. The Gospels (Jesus’ story) and 3. The Epistles (The Holy Spirit’s story). And everything that goes on in all three stories is interconnected and all about God’s unconditional love for all creation throughout time and space. God is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. That’s the Trinity.
I’m assuming you’ve read the readings for today but in case you haven’t, here are three passages taken from them for you to ponder on. Firstly, (God’s story) In the beginning when God created the heavens and the earth, the earth was a formless void and darkness covered the face of the deep, while a wind from God swept over the face of the waters. Then God said, ‘Let there be light’; and there was light. (Genesis 1:1-3) Secondly, (Jesus’ story) Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. When they saw him, they worshipped him; but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.’ (Matthew 28:16-20) Father, Son, Holy Spirit. Thirdly, (The Holy Spirit’s story) Brothers and sisters, farewell. Put things in order, listen to my appeal, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you. Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the saints greet you. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with all of you. (2 Corinthians 13:11-13)
The Holy Trinity is not a concept to be explained, a numbers game to be calculated, or a problem to be solved. It’s a life to be lived and love to be shared with others. In other words, stop thinking about God and live the life you are called to be and share the love we have received from God. Amen.
Collect: Blessed Trinity, we know you as a community of love. Grant us such worship of you that we are transformed after your likeness; to be creative, caring, life enriching people. For you reign in the glory of the power that is love. This we ask through Christ our Mediator. Amen
Sentence: If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.’ John 20: 22
Tena koutou katoa e te whanau o Te Wairua Tapu.
Today we celebrate Pentecost Sunday. And there are multiple kauwhau in all our readings focusing on the Holy Spirit. (Acts 2:2-4) “And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared among them, and a tongue rested on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them ability.” (1 Corinthians 12: 5-8) “Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.” And of course our gospel reading from John. (John 20: 22) “When Jesus had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit.”
It is very tempting to jump from one reading to another to try and make sense of the Holy Spirit and how it functions. But for me, I always come back to the gospels. I never stray to far from what they have to say. You see, prior to the disciples receiving the Holy Spirit, they were locked away in a room afraid of being discovered by the Jewish authorities.
So it was appropriate that I ended last week’s kauwhau with, “Hold on whanau! We are preparing to begin a new chapter and breath new life into the story we get to live out at Te Wairua Tapu.” This would have been quite confronting for some of you as we have been locked away and separated from each other for over two months. And now, I expect you to have all your gifts sorted out and ready to share with the world! Well, to be honest, these are not my expectations but God’s. You see, it’s all about empowerment. When we’ve been given the green light to go, then it’s time to get cracking. But somehow we get scared and begin to question ourselves; are we really ready to go? Am I worthy enough? Do I have the confidence or the right skills and abilities to lead? More importantly, we question our faith. Is my faith strong enough? Maybe I need to spend more time with God and more time getting to know Jesus?
Our lives are no different from the disciples. When it comes to faith, it’s all about God and nothing else. If we truly believe God exists and Jesus Christ is the manifestation of God, then that’s all that matters. This time away from each other has and will continue to test our faith long after our return to Te Wairua Tapu. But our faith has certainly been tested during this time of separation. All our weaknesses and strengths totally exposed to God. Yet, we think we can still hide from God. I am sure the disciples felt the same way but God could see them in that locked room; full of fear, alone, not knowing what to do next, their leader was gone, the wind completely taken from their sails, they were totally lost.
And then we see in our gospel reading, Jesus came and stood among them and said, ‘Peace be with you.’ Yes, it’s me and he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, ‘Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.’ When he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit.
Be at peace whanau. Be at peace with yourself, your whanau and the world. And we know how the world is right now, how can we not see it? Be at peace. Why? Because the Holy Spirit has come among us and it will be the Holy Spirit that will teach and guide you and I in the direction in which God wants us to take. But let me be clear, our role and the role of the church is all about salvation. Bringing God’s people back to God. And like a wise priest said to me one day, you can only save the world by saving one person at a time. The question is; are you saved? Or are you still waiting to be saved? Let go and be at peace because you believe. So as the tongues of fire from the Holy Spirit descends upon us, let us be empowered and ready to go and save the world, one person at a time. As Jesus commands and outlines our mission, If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.” Amen.
Collect: Holy Spirit of God, blowing through creation: No door can keep you out. Unlock our hearts, breathe on us anew; that we may speak God’s words of life. With the Father and the Son, you live and reign, one God, now and forever. Amen.
The Venerable Kaio Karipa Archdeacon Sydney Maori Anglican Fellowship Church of Te Wairua Tapu www.tewairuatapu.com.au
Readings: Acts 1:6-14 Ps 68:1-10,32-35 1 Pet 4:12-14; 5:6-11 John 17:1-11
Sentence: Now this is eternal life, that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. Alleluia! John 17: 3
Tena koutou katoa e te whanau o Te Wairua Tapu.
In today’s gospel, Jesus offers prayers for himself, his disciples and his followers. It’s obvious the time had come for Jesus to leave and ascend back to God the father, back to his place of origin. So before he goes, Jesus prays to God to protect and unite his followers through the name given to him, Jesus. He prayed for this unified protection so that when the time came his followers would be prepared to receive the Holy Spirit and to have the necessary strength and courage they will need to face the same world that rejected him.
On reflection, I can understand why Jesus prayed for his followers as we have been given insights into the good and bad side of humanity over the past 8 to 9 weeks. Knowing what humanity are capable of doing to each other and to see the war raging between right and wrong, good and evil, rich and poor, only tells me, that the Church and followers of Jesus need his prayers because we have plenty of work to do in this broken ego driven world!
So whanau, I hope you have taken this time of being still, waiting and watching and deepening your relationship with God so that you are energised, prepared and full of running for your return to karakia at Te Wairua Tapu. So when we come together as one, our prayers and our actions will be a powerful and potent force to be reckoned with. Our worship should enable God to touch, embrace, shape and change us through the God given gifts we have received. So you should have identified your gifts by now as you will be challenged to use them openly and wisely for the benefit of the church and the world. In other words, when we are called to unite and work together again, our karakia will, not should, glorify God with integrity and devotion throughout the entire service; every word we utter and every hymn we sing glorifies God in the most expressive way. The time for mediocre karakia is over!
You see, today’s gospel from John is full of theology. And there is nothing better than to let the word speak for itself. Jesus looked up to heaven and said, ‘Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son so that the Son may glorify you, since you have given him authority over all people, to give eternal life to all whom you have given him. And this is eternal life, that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. I glorified you on earth by finishing the work that you gave me to do. So now, Father, glorify me in your own presence with the glory that I had in your presence before the world existed. ‘I have made your name known to those whom you gave me from the world. They were yours, and you gave them to me, and they have kept your word. Now they know that everything you have given me is from you; for the words that you gave to me I have given to them, and they have received them and know in truth that I came from you; and they have believed that you sent me. I am asking on their behalf; I am not asking on behalf of the world, but on behalf of those whom you gave me, because they are yours.’
Read and re-read. If you don’t get it then you won’t but that’s still okay. But if you do, then you will understand that eternal life is not reserved until we die; it is something we share now through Jesus. We receive eternal life the moment we have faith in Jesus and begin to have a relationship with him. We don’t wait and expect to just receive the gift of eternal life. Hold on Jesus, I’ll get to you one day! That’s not how it works.
Plus, we have the privilege of having a living, vibrant and growing relationship with the God of all that exists. A God we know, through Jesus, to be a compassionate, forgiving, loving and healing God. True eternal life is all about knowing God and knowing Jesus. It is centred on our relationship with God, and that relationship comes through knowing Jesus. When Jesus prays for us, he is after something deeper. He wants to wake up the heart of God within us. Jesus did not pray that all believers would or should agree. The source of our unity is not in human structures. It’s in Jesus Christ. Our unity gives us strength in difficult and tough times like now. It is true that there is power in numbers. That’s how powerful the church is when every one of us prays constantly with one heart and one mind! So hold on whanau! We are preparing to begin a new chapter and breath new life into the story we get to live out at Te Wairua Tapu. Amen.
Collect: Holy God, you have not left us alone but promised your abiding protection. In all we face, grant us such a knowledge of your presence, and abiding care, that nothing can destroy our trust. Through Jesus Christ our Liberator, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
The Venerable Kaio Karipa Archdeacon Sydney Maori Anglican Fellowship Church of Te Wairua Tapu
Readings: Acts 17:22-31 Ps 66:8-20 1 Pet 3:13-22 John 14:15-21
Sentence: They who have my commandments and keep them are those who love me; and those who love me will be loved by my Father, and I will love them and reveal myself to them. Alleluia! John 14: 21
Tena koutou katoa e te whanau o Te Wairua Tapu.
Well, it seemed like we might be back at Te Wairua Tapu sooner than expected. However, Archbishop Glen Davies tweeted, “Step 1 is not the time to re-introduce Sunday public worship……The coronavirus is still a very real danger for us all, so the need for ongoing vigilance is paramount.” So whanau, to be vigilant means we remain in this space for a bit longer and there must be some more lessons for us to learn while we are here.
In our gospel reading today, Jesus says, “I will not leave you orphaned.” Yet, it seems like we have been orphaned during this time of absence from Te Wairua Tapu, Moorebank and Wollongong. In those few words, Jesus speaks directly to some of our greatest fears and challenges; abandonment, isolation, loneliness and vulnerability. Those words remind us that we are not destined to live life without an identity or direction. Something we have been constantly confronted with during this time.
You see, there are times and moments of life. Just like now. Times when transitions, changes, and tragedies can leave us feeling like orphans. And for reasons beyond our control, we seem to be living like orphans today. Facing the same questions. What will I do now? Where do I go? What happens next? Who will love, nurture, and guide me? Who is on my side? Those are the sort of questions that orphans would pose just like the disciples did. Remember last week, it was the last supper. The disciples had been fed, feet washed and the betrayer had left. It was nightime and Jesus announced he was leaving. The one for whom the disciples had left everything now tells them he’s leaving. “We don’t know where you are going. How can we know the way?” “Show us the Father.” Those are orphan questions.
That is our biggest fear, becoming orphaned. I remember losing my mother, broke my heart and I never thought I’d get over it. Still miss her today. But my fear and I am sure your fear points to the deeper reality that by ourselves we are nothing. It’s not because we are not good enough. It’s because we were never created to be self-sufficient. We were never intended to be alone as individuals. Read the book of Genesis. Instead, we were created to be in community or communion with others. To love and be loved, to live in relationships as persons giving themselves to each other, to dwell, abide, and remain within each other just as God is in Jesus and Jesus is in God; the total opposite of being orphaned. “I will not leave you orphaned.” That’s what Jesus promises. No matter what the circumstances are in our lives; the storms and troubles we encounter, the death of loved ones or the separations we face, we have never been and will never be orphaned or left alone by God.
How strange those words must have sounded to the disciples. Jesus tells them that he is leaving and then coming back. Leaving and coming sure sound like opposites. But don’t fall into the trap of trying to make sense or figure all this stuff out. It’s not something to figure out. It’s rather a means to see and live in a different way and that’s why we struggle get it like the disciples. And why shouldn’t we? Jesus is coming and going, here and there, present and absent. But that’s what Jesus has set before us in today’s gospel. He confronts us with the ultimate question of whether “Jesus Christ”, for you and I, is just a past memory or a present reality, a sentimental love story that makes us feel good or Jesus is alive and he challenges, guides and nurtures our lives.
The answer to that question is determined by the love that is revealed and fulfilled in keeping Jesus’ commandments. The commandment to love our neighbour as ourselves, to love our enemies and to love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. Do we keep the commandments? Is our love growing and transforming ourselves and the world? If so, then Jesus is probably a present reality in our lives and we know that we are not left orphaned. If, however, we are not sharing much love, especially in our homes, then we remain self-centred and isolated and we allow ourselves and each other to join all the other orphans of this world, and there’s plenty! Jesus’ promise is real and he remains faithful to us but we haven’t claimed it for ourselves. Perhaps today is the day you claim it and own it!
You see, keeping the commandments is our access to Jesus’ promise that we will not be left orphaned. However, keeping them doesn’t make Jesus present to us. Instead, it makes us present to the already ongoing reality of Jesus’ presence and love. The commandments don’t earn us Jesus’ love nor gain us automatic entry into heaven but they reveal our love for him, a love that originates in his abiding love and presence within us. Every time we expand the boundaries of our love we not only get to experience God’s unconditional love but we get to push back on becoming orphans in this world. This also creates space within us where God and Jesus Christ can make their home. Regardless of what is happening in our lives Jesus’ promise stands. “I will not leave you orphaned.” So don’t give up on yourselves or others. Love with all that you are and all that you have just as God the Father and God the Son, Jesus Christ love us with all that they are and all that they have. Amen.
Collect: God who speaks in silence; help us wait in quietness. When you seem absent, grant us the faith that knows you are there, bringing to fulfilment all you have started. Through Jesus Christ our Liberator, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
The Venerable Kaio Karipa Archdeacon Sydney Maori Anglican Fellowship Church of Te Wairua Tapu www.tewairuatapu.com.au
Readings: Acts 7:55-60 Ps 31:1-5,15-16 1 Pet 2:2-10 John 14:1-14
Sentence: Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. Alleluia! John 14: 6
Tena koutou katoa e te whanau o Te Wairua Tapu.
To all the mothers, Happy Mother’s Day! Make sure all your children and mokopuna spoil you today as you all deserve it. Especially with everything you do and then some! Let them show you how grateful they really are for all that you do for them.
Well whanau, I’m not sure when we will be back at Te Wairua Tapu but it’s looking like July at this stage. So I wonder how you will be feeling after hearing Jesus say, ‘Do not let your hearts be troubled. Believe in God, believe also in me.’ That’s our gospel for today.
Usually this text and gospel passage from John is often used at tangihanga. I’m sure you, like me, have heard these words on numerous occasions, even I recite them. Why? Because death troubles our hearts and we see the pain, the suffering and the grief whanau go through when they lose a loved one so we try to offer them spiritual comfort, strength and stability between life and death. Most receive the word and it calms their mind, body and souls. For some, the grief is to overwhelming and they don’t hear the word so their hearts remain troubled but that’s okay. I always hope and pray that over time God heals their pain and grief.
But today’s gospel not only speaks to us in a time of mourning but it has something to say right here and right now. It’s speaks to the very circumstances that trouble our hearts. Perhaps it would have been more appropriate when we first entered isolation. Instead it shows up today. You see, context is everything. This passage comes on the night of the last supper. Jesus has announced his upcoming death, washed his disciples paru feet, Judas has left the table to betray him and Jesus points out that Peter will deny him three times. Thomas is lost. “How can we know the way?” And Philip can’t see what’s right in front of him. “Lord, show us the Father, and we will be satisfied”. They have all lost sight of Jesus straight after he tells them, “Do not let your hearts be troubled.”
See how easy it is for us to get lost? We are no different from the disciples! Jesus says to us, “Do not let your hearts be troubled.” And yet our hearts are troubled, not only when we lose loved ones but right now. Come on Jesus, can’t you see what’s happening in our lives and our world? Everything has been turned upside down! We’ve been isolated and disconnected, we’ve had to do things we never dreamed we had to do, our futures look bleak, many of our people are unemployed with no access to government support, huge loss of life globally, especially within the most disproportionate communities, when can we go back to karakia and the pain goes on. What are we supposed to do? Where do we turn too?
In the midst of all this trouble, the question we need to be asking ourselves is this; will we hold on or is everything collapsing around us? Like the disciples, their world was collapsing and so it has been for us over the past two months. We have faced so much instability and chaos and it’s not over yet. We have gone looking over there and over there and we keep on looking for that elusive mana to fix everything up. You know it and I know it. But it’s okay because you will come back to the same spot. Like I have constantly said, don’t move, be still and wait. Jesus knows that our hearts are troubled. He’s not warning us about a future condition. He can see it in us now.
You see, dealing with a troubled heart begins with looking into our own hearts and seeing and naming what really troubles us? That means facing our selves, our lives and our world. Jesus knows this and we don’t like doing it. It’s too hard and too painful. It takes us to close to the edge of the unknown and the fear of a free fall into a collapsing life and a collapsing world. “Lord, we do not know where you are going. How can we know the way?” Thomas speaks for us all. At this point, we’ve lost our centre. God and Jesus Christ. But from my own faith journey and experience in life, sometimes we have to lose our centre in order to find it. It’s a part of life. It’s a part of being human. Sometimes it comes out of circumstances we didn’t create or choose. Other times it’s a consequence of our choices or actions. Regardless, Jesus says that is not a place to stay or a way to live. It’s not the life he lives or the life he offers us.
‘Do not let your hearts be troubled. Believe in God, believe also in me.’ That is the core of our faith. If your heart is troubled then it’s time to re-centre. It’s time to realise that you are not the centre but God is. Therefore, do not be afraid of what is happening around you, yes, there will be times where our hearts will be troubled but allow God to truly see who you really are. Don’t fear being exposed to God. It is the very place where you will find the person you are truly meant to be. And that is the biggest fear we have. Yet, Jesus continues to show us the way.
When this happens, maybe you and I will better understand Jesus when he says, ‘In my Father’s house there are many dwelling-places. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, so that where I am, there you may be also. And you know the way to the place where I am going.’
Back to God our centre through Jesus Christ. Amen.
Collect: God of truth, hidden force of all creation, you long to set us free. Confront us with your tenderness, fire us with your justice; that, at your coming, we too may set the world alight. Through Jesus Christ our Liberator, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
The Venerable Kaio Karipa Archdeacon Sydney Maori Anglican Fellowship Church of Te Wairua Tapu www.tewairuatapu.com.au
Readings: Acts 2:42-47 Psalm 23 1 Peter 2:19-25 John 10:1-10
Sentence: 9I am the gate. Whoever enters by me will be saved, and will come in and go out and find pasture. Alleluia! John 10: 9
Tena koutou katoa e te whanau o Te Wairua Tapu.
I am sure being in isolation for the past six weeks has been challenging for all of you, I know it has been for me. I have come to know my whanau a lot more intimately, their idiosyncratic ways, especially their particular likes and dislikes, what they will and will not do and, at times totally amaze you with their responses and actions. However, in reality it has nothing to do with my whanau but everything to do with me. You see, there are personal values that mean so much to me that I have a tendency to expect everyone else to know and to uphold them even if they don’t want too. Therefore, what I have learnt thus far, and it’s not over yet, is the importance of leadership. If you want to be a leader you must lead by example. If you believe things should be done a certain way then do it, don’t talk about it or expect others to do them for you. Hence, our gospel reading from St John. The story of Jesus the good shepherd who goes ahead of his own and they follow him because they know his voice. They don’t follow strangers but run from them because they don’t know the voice of strangers.
Isn’t it amazing, there are so many voices making so much noise right now, you don’t really know which one to listen too! Television, reality shows, Netflix, the news, social media and the list goes on. That’s why I have maintained, be still, listen and you will know. Leadership isn’t loud and proud, it’s quiet and humble. It’s the voice you hear calling to you through all the noise that surrounds us. Here I am, Jesus says, follow me.
Yet, Jesus doesn’t make it easy for us. At the beginning of today’s gospel Jesus suggests he is the shepherd who enters the gate, unlike the thieves and bandits who jump over the fence. The sheep, he says, listen to and follow the voice of the shepherd but run from the voice of strangers. But then Jesus says that he is the gate. So he’s both the shepherd who enters the gate and the gate the shepherd enters? And then he says that we can enter him as a gate to abundant life? St. John clearly states that Jesus was using a “figure of speech.” That’s why Jesus’ sayings and teachings are difficult to understand and like today’s text it cannot be taken literally as it makes no sense to the rational and intellectual mind. The figure of speech points to something beyond itself, something more important, which in this context is abundant life. So we need to think, see and listen differently to what we are being told.
Jesus says that abundant life is the reason he came; so we might “have life, and have it abundantly.” But abundant life is not about quantity and prosperity, having everything; wealth, success, approval, security or being loud, proud and number one. I am not saying there is anything wrong with that but to truly follow Jesus, abundant life is about quality of life not quantity. It’s about having meaning in our lives; integrity, humility, purpose and relationships. It’s about sharing and giving life to others and the world not take, take, take. Abundant life is all about love, joy, hope, kindness, generosity, hospitality and gratitude. It’s about easing the pain and suffering that surrounds us and in the world.
We only have to watch what’s happening in the world to see how society is responding to this global crisis we face. How world leaders are reacting and as individuals and communities we have to decide for ourselves, is it quantity of life we desire or quality of life. That’s why it’s so important to keep filtering through all the voices and listen for the voice calling you so you don’t get lost and end up chasing the wind. We are the kaitiaki of our hearts and souls. Guarding them means staying awake, being watchful, and staying diligent. Awareness of and reflection on what is happening within and outside of us is the key and depending on who or what it is we will either open them or keep them shut. There are no easy, simple, one size fits all, or once and for all answers to any questions about life. But we don’t have to make these decisions alone or in isolation. Jesus said, “I am the gate.” He is the gate that opens and leads to the pastures of abundant life and he is the gate that stands against death. We open or close ourselves in collaboration with Jesus. “The sheep follow (The shepherd) because they know his voice.” Amen.
Collect: God of our futures; you go ahead of us to prepare a place for us. Help us put our trust in you; in this life, may we be freed from our fears; and, in the life to come, know you face to face Through Jesus Christ our Liberator, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
The Venerable Kaio Karipa Archdeacon Sydney Maori Anglican Fellowship Church of Te Wairua Tapu
Readings: Acts 2:14a, 22-32 Psalm 16 1 Peter 1:3-9 John 20:19-31
Sentence: Thanks be to God who gave us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Alleluia! 1 Corithians 15: 57
Tena koutou katoa e te whanau o Te Wairua Tapu.
It’s been one week since the empty tomb and our first “Alleluia. Christ is risen. The Lord is risen indeed. Alleluia.” A week after the resurrection and the disciples are in the same place they were on Easter night.
So if the resurrection was such a big deal, why are the disciples still stuck in the same place? How has it changed them? Has it allowed them to see themselves and the world differently? They are in the same house behind the same locked doors as a week ago. What’s changed?
Sound familiar? I wonder, what has Christ’s resurrection done for us? Is your life different after a week? Do you see the world in new ways now? What difference has the empty tomb made in your life over the last week? When I look at my life it looks really different from last Sunday, and the Sunday before, and the Sunday before that. And when I look at the world after a month, it has certainly changed and changed forever!
I used to think, gee those disciples, they were a bit useless, why were they stuck in the same place? They should’ve been onto it! After all, death has been defeated. “Christ is risen. Alleluia.”
However, in hindsight and after being in ministry for over 20 years, I’ve realised that resurrection takes time. It’s not a one off or annual event. It’s something that we grow into. It’s a process. Like I always remind you, it’s a way of life that we get to live out. We become resurrected people through the grace of God in the midst of our relationships and the circumstances of our lives. God is there every day of our lives as we walk into the resurrected life.
And, as you know, It’s not always easy and some days are just plain hard. I’m sure, some of you, if not most of you, are starting to struggle during this time of isolation. You don’t have the freedom to go wherever you want, whenever you want. If you live alone, loneliness becomes a big problem, especially when going to karakia every Sunday was your big day out to be with other believers. For parents, you now have to be parents! You have to be the police, teachers, cleaners, chefs and when you’ve done all this, go to work or work from home! For some, it’s getting real tough. No mahi: no money, can’t pay mortgages, rent, bills and buy food. And while this is all happening, pressure starts to build and we all no what happens when it gets to much!
So stop! Breathe and allow the risen Christ to just be with you for a moment and allow him to say, ‘Peace be with you’. You see, we get distracted real quick and miss when we are in the presence of God. It’s not a place, it’s a space. God creates it not us. It’s where you and I are right now. It’s a fleeting moment in God’s time, own it, then it’s gone and we are back to reality. Like the disciples, Jesus came amongst them, then he was gone. As people of faith we must live in both the spiritual and physical worlds. We cannot choose one over the other. Otherwise it becomes nothing but escapism. We either want to run away to God or run away from God. Just stay still. Believe Christ is risen and he has defeated death. Nothing else matters. Has your life changed in a week? Mine has. I continue to walk my resurrected story no matter where it leads me. Remember resurrected life takes time. Amen
Archdeacon Kaio Karipa
Collect: God of mystery, you affirm our right to question what we find hard to know. Grant us the maturity of faith that knows when to question and when to trust. Through Jesus Christ our Liberator, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
Readings: Acts 10:34-43 Psalm 118:1-2,14-24 Colossians 3:1-4 Matthew 28:1-10
Sentence: Alleluia! The Lord is risen indeed. To him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Alleluia! Luke 24: 34
Tena koutou katoa e te whanau o Te Wairua Tapu.
Today we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Alleluia! The Lord is Risen!
For some of us, as I am sure for all Christians worldwide, we have waited patiently to celebrate this momentous event. Every year I remind my fellowship that no matter what challenges or struggles they may have faced in the past, life will get better. Never give up, never let go and always have hope in a better and brighter future. We always look forward to Easter Sunday so the gospels can remind us of the truth. Our Lord is Risen! Those words speak for themselves. They don’t need me to justify or defend them. St Matthew tells us, the angel told the women who went to Jesus’ tomb. “He is not here; he has been raised.” and “He has been raised from the dead.” They also saw Jesus, touched him and heard his voice.
Life can lead us down many different pathways with a multitude of variances that effectively decide which one we choose. The problem we encounter is that unless we have a solid foundation to begin with, we tend to lose track of where we have come from to know where we will eventually end up. That is why today is so significant. Easter constantly reminds us that this is our foundation. The beginning and the end.
This year is different from any other year for most of us and it has changed our lives forever. As Maori and as Christians, we have had to physically cease practicing our traditional and cultural values and beliefs. It has been a challenge to quickly adjust to this new way of living. Isolation, unemployment, social distancing, constant hand washing, gloves, masks, cashless transactions, new laws, new fines and I’m sure there will be more changes to come. I had to do karakia for a tangihanga over the phone the other day, no zoom or face-time. Very distant. Is this the future? Virtual reality? People are already getting used to this way life. Why leave home? People in some countries are already to scared to venture outside.
Although the future may seem uncertain, one thing that hasn’t changed and will never change, Our Lord is Risen! This is the reality for me and all Christians. It stops the ground from falling away from under us. No matter what confronts us we know that Jesus walked, talked, healed and performed many miracles. He showed compassion and unconditional love to insiders and outsiders, the high and the lowly, the marginalised and the outcast. As hard as it gets sometimes, knowing the truth about Easter releases all of my worries, fears and uncertainties because Easter is all about new life, light, joy, peace and hope. That changes everything about how we should live. Everyday should be Easter for us. Christ’s resurrection is not an annual celebration. It’s a way of life. I life of gratitude you and I get to live out in an ever changing world. Alleluia! The Lord is Risen!
Collect: Alleluia, faithful God: on this day you raised Jesus from death, and calmed our greatest fear. Help us to celebrate with joy; that, in greeting the risen Saviour, we may be filled with the hope of resurrected life. Through Jesus Christ our Liberator, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
