Making Connections

Sometimes faith’s path sets a challenge that we need to overcome in order to grow or receive a particular blessing. Sometimes that challenge means taking a chance on the truth of some claim or belief by living it out.

The story of Hamish demonstrates some of the intricacies of this path. Hamish’s path meant taking a series of chances, trusting in the possibilities, looking at things from new perspectives. The goose and the owl represent another approach, one which appreciates the stories on another level. Each lives with the benefits that their faith grants them. The challenges of the journey of faith and the stories of the faith are also reflected in the gospel passage for this day. Most modern bible scholars believe that the gospel of Mark ends with the words “they said nothing to any one, for they were afraid.” It is believed that the text which follows these words was added by scribes who were uncomfortable with that ending, or who were trying to harmonize Mark with Luke and Matthew.

From the beginning of his gospel, Mark’s perspective revolves around the keeping and revealing of secrets, especially concerning Jesus’ true identity and purpose for coming into the world. The play between secret and revelation draws us into the story and causes us to ask questions, to seek to learn more. Mark’s ending can have a similar effect. It may cause a believer to ask, if they were silent, how did the Christian faith spread? The answer may lead one into a deeper understanding of how God works in the world. On the other hand, it may cause someone who is new to Christianity to want to find out more about Jesus Christ and why he has had such an influence on people long after that first Easter. (continued ... )