Jude

Today's New Testament lesson is from the book of Jude, not a particularly well read or well liked book in the NT.

Since I have been listening to Morning and sometimes Evening Prayer, my engagement with all Scripture has increased. Over and over again the critiques of the world as it is sound very familiar. This can be interpreted as depressing–the rich and powerful are still behaving badly. On the other hand, it helps. I am not living in a unique time. This has always been true.

Rant: I just want to retire the words "uncharted", "unpresidented" and "sui generis".

Versus 18-19 describe the ungodly. Rings true.

The ones to whom this letter is addressed, the beloved, me, are to

• build ourselves up on our most holy faith
• pray in the Holy Spirit
• keep ourselves in the love of God
• look forward to the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to

et ernal life

• have mercy on some who are wavering
• save others by snatching them out of the fire
• have mercy on still others with fear (even if they are really disgusting)

I write these out not only as an a way to communicate to others, but to remind myself of what Jude has to say. The list is mostly about interacting with others, those in the faith community and those outside of it. It boils down to being concerned for others. There's a desire here for no one to be lost forever. Somewhere in Ezekiel it says that God does not desire ill for anyone and Jude underscores that here. It's not them and us. It's everyone!