Children of Blessing
“This is the way you shall bless the children of Israel. Say to them: The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace. So they shall put my name on the children of Israel, and I will bless them.” – Numbers 6:23-27 (NKJV)
It’s a funny thing how—in my countless years of hearing, offering, and receiving this blessing—I never really noticed the explanation behind it. As the ancient liberated-but-lost Israelites were wandering in the wilderness, God wanted them to know they were in good hands. That they belonged to God. That God’s name was their name, too.
It’s funny—in the hidden way of holy mysteries—because that’s exactly what was behind the “blessings to go” I felt called to start offering some 12 years ago. More than anything else, I wanted people to know they were beloved children of God. Deep down, that was also what I needed to know.
By the time you read this, Pride observances in the college-saturated corner of the world where I live will have come and gone. I will have spent four non-stop hours telling folks of all sexualities, genders, and identities that they are beloved children of God. I will have wiped away tears and received grateful hugs.
But where you live, Pride month and its many joyful celebrations of queer love are just around the corner. You can still get thyself to a parade—or anyplace—and share God’s flamboyant and extravagant love. Blessings be upon you.
Prayer
What a gift it is to share your name and lineage! May we shine as we share your love with all people and creation.
About the AuthorVicki Kemper is the Pastor of First Congregational, UCC, of Amherst, Massachusetts.