September 22, 2021

I get the “Hate has no home here” signs in people’s yards. The signs, no doubt, are meant as a welcome to all. However, the signs, like all placards, are surface level, naïve about the actual human condition. As much as we hate to admit it, we all hate – it is part of our fallen nature. If hate has no home, then we are all homeless.

For a gospel take on the subject go have a listen to the 1989 James hit called Sit Down. The words may have been spoken by Jesus. 

“Those who feel the breath of sadness / Sit down next to me / Those who find they're touched by madness / Sit down next to me / Those who find themselves ridiculous / Sit down next to me / In love, in fear, in hate, in tears / In love, in fear, in hate, in tears / In love, in fear, in hate, in tears / In love, in fear, in hate.”

All who are weary and heavy laden, sit down next to Me. Jesus (and James singer Tim Booth?) this verse from Jeremiah in mind: “For I will satisfy the weary soul, and every languishing soul I will replenish.” (Jeremiah 31:25)

“O Lord our God, accept the fervent prayers of your people; in the multitude of your mercies, look with compassion upon us and all who turn to you for help; for you are gracious, O lover of souls, and to you we give glory, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, now and for ever. Amen.” (The Collect at the Prayers – BCP p. 395)