Numbers 6:22-27

"Holy" Name of Jesus- Year A

 

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Context is always tricky business. Are we continuing the past, attending to a present situation, or anticipating a next step?

This famous blessing is located just after instructions for rededication as a Nazirite after they have had a brush with someone’s death. It comes just before setting up and anointing a tent specifically for encountering G*D’s presence. In its singularity it is a corporate blessing.

This blessing is a group (Aaron and sons) to group (Israelites) blessing. A resultant question for us is, “As a representative of G*D, what group are you and a group you are with called to bless?”

Will a plural “you” keep the blessing internal or include other classes, nations, and even enemies?

 

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receive assurance
walk in blessing
before – behind –
right – left –
above – below –
into every dimension

 

this energy
lights paths
yours and many
to illuminate
graceful options
ever present

 

wonder
holds us together
countenancing
new engagements
to spread
expansive peace

As found in Wrestling Year A: Connecting Sunday Readings with Lived Experience

 

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We often talk about the importance of the name of Jesus. In and of itself, it is inconsequencial. Let’s shift, for a moment, away from naming Jesus to what Jesus might name as his life-work. Might it be to reveal a blessing as a Way with G*D?

Christmas angels and Baptismal doves and Locked Room fires still echo down the years, “Thus you shall bless.” Does that sound like Jesus? Listen to him saying to you and to all,

Bless you.
I affirm you.
A light of grace surround you.
A smile of peace be yours.

This, then, becomes a common journey of those on a Way with G*D. Don’t just bless Jesus’ name (as Jesus reminds us, just saying Jesus, Jesus, Jesus still takes $4+ to get a cup of Starbucks and is no heavenly ticket). Rather, be blessed and bless.

http://kcmlection.blogspot.com/2013/12/numbers-622-27.html