You faithless and perverse generation, how much longer must I be with you and bear with you ?

Do you believe I am able [and willing] to do this?

Scripture: Jn 8:12-58; Lk 9:37-43; Mt 9:27-38

Recently, I had lunch with a talented colleague. This is a person who has brought great creativity and compassion to her difficult task as a prison chaplain. The people she serves adore her, for she is pres­ ent to their pain and offers a bit o f warmth and light to a harsh envi­ ronment. She is also able to bring both individuals and varied reli­ gious groups into closer fellowship and dialogue. Her work has been acclaimed with awards from her denomination and seminary.