One of my friends has the delightful habit of sending me New Yorker cartoons. Certainly one of the best features a man behind a bookstore counter on top of which is prominently featured Allen Bloom\u2019s The Closing of the American Mind. He has a big smile on his face and says to the customer \u201cI haven\u2019t read it, but it\u2019s a great book!\u201d\u009d<\/p>\n
Alas, that is too often a true reflection of how many Episcopalians actually relate to Holy Scripture.<\/p>\n
It is such a fabulous book, but we only experience it when we learn to be Scripture students and spiritually attentive Bible readers.<\/p>\n
Consider the story of when Simon the Pharisee has the preacher over for dinner (Luke 7:36-50). As for many a good Episcopalian, having the rector over is a big deal for Simon. Etiquette must be properly followed. Invitations must be carefully issued. Everything must be done in correct Anglican fashion, decently and in order.<\/p>\n
Then a woman from the wrong side of the tracks crashes the party….<\/p>\n