On behalf of the laity of the Northern Illinois Conference, I greet you in the name of our risen Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ! Briefly, I want to share with you the best thing I’ve heard recently. 

Some of you may already know "The Rabbi’s Gift,” a story by Father Francis Dorff, O. Praem. I heard Rev. Dr. Norval Brown share it during a devotion he lead. He told the version that M. Scott Peck included in his book The Different Drum: Community Making and Peace.  

I encourage you to do a web search and read Peck’s and other versions (one version). Ponder them as we move forward in this season of expectation, experimentation, and transformation.

Sisters and brothers, Jesus teaches us to do unto others as we would have them do unto us. What would it be like to treat others as if they were the Messiah? What would it be like to be treated by others as if you were the Messiah? What would it be like to treat yourself as if you were the Messiah? What would the church be like if we treated each other as if they were the Messiah? 

Highly respectful cultures treat every person with courtesy and interest, conveying the belief that every member of the community is valued. When treating every person with the utmost respect, we develop a culture in which everyone wants to give their best to others and expects to receive the best from others in return. It is up to us to make it happen. 

As we look forward to Thanksgiving and Advent, consider what it would be like to extend radical grace. Whatever the outcome of the election and whatever lies ahead, let not your hearts be troubled, just put your faith and hope in Christ who has never failed us. Amen! 

Also, please save Feb. 8 on your calendar for Laity Convocation. Watch for upcoming announcements of more information.