Some of our readers have no doubt heard the phrase, “it’s time to pay the piper,” or something to close that. Many have long thought that it has something to do with the legendary story of the Pied Piper, who played tunes for children in a small town, but when he asked for payment and was not offered anything for his talent, he led the children out of the town where they were never seen again. Rather, the idea is much simpler. Musicians traditionally and to this day are paid at the end of a performance, so the idea is that if people have been dancing to the music all night, in the end, it is time to pay up. In our Scripture Readings of today, there are two examples of having to settle accounts. The first is this from Ezekiel’s vision: “As I looked, a stormwind came from the North, a huge cloud with flashing fire enveloped in brightness, from the midst of which (the midst of the fire) something gleamed like electrum.” This becomes a foretaste of the Second Coming of the Lord in all its splendor and glory. Certainly, it is a graphic and dramatic time to give an account of all we have been given and what we have given in return.
The second is as mundane as our first example is sublime: “Does not your teacher pay the temple tax?” In this passage, Jesus almost seems dismissive about the question and gives a strange set of instructions on how to obtain the coin to pay the tax. What are we to make of this, and how are the examples related? First, about the mundane: Jesus desires all people to be free to live their lives to the fullest of all providence. Our prayer must always include petitions to free us from the fixations, irritations, and trivialities that distract us from the fundamental task of growing in love and building the Kingdom of God. Our desire to remove silly and artificial obstacles to our salvation helps us understand, appreciate, and even embrace our suffering. Suffering disorients us. We cannot understand it fully. Jesus brings meaning from it at a profound level that we cannot grasp, except through a lively and genuine faith that is lived every day. That is why we must pray for a greater appreciation of the sufferings of Christ. Paying our taxes and putting up with frustrations and disappointments helps us be ready for the great conclusion of our lives, which is a vision of glory and justice which is beyond all our understanding: “God has called you through the Gospel to possess the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
“I can be poor, I can lose a job, I can have a hospital bill that I don’t know how to pay, for I can do all these things through Him who strengthens me.” John Piper
Board Member
Everyone needs to have a Ray “Redfish” for a friend or at least to meet one like him before you leave the planet. He has never been known to interrupt a single person, say an unkind thing, although he did come close during the last Dallas Cowboy game, or leave any food on his plate. Ray wants to live in a world where Jesus is Lord, life is sacred, and blessings never end.
Board Member
Grateful for an amazing group of friends and a life that has been blessed and enriched by so many, Andrea brings a deep joy and dedication to the mission of CityOfAgape. She is detail-oriented and uses her experience and foresight to proactively address the needs of those around her. When you speak with Andrea, you feel like you’re the only one in the room.
Board Member
Father David comes from the land of Iowa where you can get sunburn and frostbite all in the same week. He has the mind of an architect and the soul of a musician. Father David has given his heart to Jesus and truly lives in the Kingdom. An accomplished guitarist, drummer, phenomenal preacher, he has the voice of a baritone angel. His prayers are powerful and his humor, well… it’s Iowan.
Secretary/Treasurer
Every day, for nine months, an intermittent light rain falls in Seattle, Washington. Those days are brightened by the warm smile and hopeful outlook on life that Angelyn brings to every encounter. Her financial expertise and engaging conversation has ensured great things ahead for CityOfAgape. Her life is filled with a constant welcome that is focused and friendly.
President
Jacqueline’s life epitomizes hard work, creative service and complete dedication, not only to CityOfAgape, but also to her husband, Joshua, and her beautiful children. Her smile, even when things are difficult, is refreshing and comforting. In most currently used English dictionaries, under the word “energy,” you will find Jacqueline’s picture.
Secretary/Treasurer
Janice is not only meticulous in reviewing records and requests for Scriptures, but her eyes well-up with joyful tears when you ask her about all the letters she has received from the thousands of Bible recipients over the years. She loves gardening and listening to the earth; her life is like a long stroll through an intriguing and engaging nature center.
Board Member
Father James’ priestly service has taken him to four different countries, many parish settings, and in contact with more friends that rivals most politicians. One of his favorite quotes is by G.K. Chesterton, “Let your religion be less of a theory and more of a love affair.” If there are sounds of a lively discussion, mixed with hearty laughter and the aroma of a good cigar, Father James can’t be too far way.
Founder and President Emeritus
The minute John walks through the door, your IQ goes up. He embodies the remarkable talent of grasping the bigger picture while juggling multiple points of view, in a world where many are very one-sided. Always happy, even when he is sad, John is ready to challenge and comfort all in the same breath. Where some only see problems, John sees the bright promise of tomorrow. His inspiration and memory will outlast his years on earth. John always says, “there are always miracles where there is great love.”