We always put the cart before the horse at this time of year; with all that October Halloween candy serving as desert before November’s grand Thanksgiving feast of turkey and all the trimmings. So, now that we are properly turning our attention to the entrée part of this autumn season, allow me to offer this little complimentary side dish of a tale from the Zen Buddhist tradition, set around a dinner table:

A very wealthy, powerful, and well-connected individual invites the renowned Zen master Ikkyu to a fancy dinner party. Ikkyu arrives dressed in his humble robes, as was his custom, but is recognized neither by the host nor his servants or any of the other guests, and based upon his appearance is turned away at the door. So, Ikkyu goes back to his temple, puts on his finest ceremonial robes, and returns. This time, the host and staff immediately recognize him due to his impressive attire and welcome him with great respect and deference, seating him at the place of honor and offering him a plate heaped with the best of the food. Instead of feasting, though, Ikkyu begins scooping up the meal and stuffing it into the sleeves and down the collar of his ceremonial robe. When questioned by the host about this unusual behavior, Ikkyu explains that since he was only properly welcomed when wearing his fine robe, it must be that the robe, not him, who was the true guest of honor and therefore entitled to the meal.

Rest assured that while shirts and shoes are required for most activities around here, the congregation of Green Mountain United Methodists genuinely welcomes you, regardless of your robe, fine or humble as it may be. Not because of who you are (or aren’t), but whose you are—God’s own beloved creation, complete with spiritual stuffing. 

PASTOR MARK