In the Lectionary

May 28, Seventh Sunday of Easter

John 17:1–11

Jesus says, “Now they know. . . . Protect them.”

Can what you do not know hurt you? At an ecumenical clergy gathering in Memphis, I did not know many folk. When I arrived it was a predominantly male crowd. In the South, we play nice. While we waited in line in the crowded space, I turned to my neighbor and introduced myself and said where I served. He responded only with his name. So, because we play nice, I innocently and curiously inquired, “And where do you serve?”

He curtly responded, “I am the bishop.”