December 8, 2023
“From his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace.” John 1:16 NRSV
Last Sunday was the 71st annual Hanging of the Greens worship service. As is usually the case, the rehearsal the day before was chaotic. The adult helpers (a.k.a. herders) had their hands full with exuberantly excited and energetic children. Crawling under pews, bouncing up and down non-stop, running rather than walking, using outdoor voices, and playing with costumes and props is so much more fun than waiting silently in the wings.
But as so often happens, the presentation of the Hanging of the Greens was lovely, and the most rambunctious children fulfilled their roles with surprising diligence and respect. One young lad, new to reading, shared part of the reading of the advent candle liturgy, and spoke clearly, accurately, and with good volume.
Another boy who carries a “lovie” with him at all times carried one of the offering plates to the front for the offertory prayer. On top of the offerings, he’d gently placed his lovie.
A child who often is seldom still, even when sitting, was given the role of star bearer. He was so excited about the role that he insisted his parents get him to church early, because he needed to practice being the star. He carried the large, golden paper star slowly and with dignity to the front of the church, where it was hung to remind all of us of the true star.
The “star” carrier is the most coveted role. Two women who grew up in the church were back to visit. They told me that they always wanted to be the star but were never chosen. Most often well-behaved girls with blond hair got the part. It occurred to me as the “star” processed that Jesus singled out some of the least likely people to be disciples, to be healed, not the best behaved, or deserving because of hair color. I am not sure what the Hanging of the Greens leader had in mind, but what became apparent to me was her grace in choosing and trusting the children, knowing the risks involved and that participation was more important than perfection. Thanks be to God!
John’s gospel declares that from Jesus’ fullness, we all received, grace upon grace. I beheld Jesus’ gift of grace upon grace. That preaches better than any sermon. ~ Anne
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