Proper 15 C + Division, then peace + 8.17.25

M. Campbell-Langdell All Santos, Oxnard (Isaiah 5:1–7; Ps. 80:1–2, 8–18; Hebrews 11:29–12:2; S. Luke 12:49–56) For the vineyard of the Lord of hosts is the house of Israel, and the people of Judah Are his pleasant planting; He expected justice, but saw bloodshed; righteousness, But heard a cry! Our beloved country is like this vineyard. In this vineyard, those who came seeking refuge and to build a life have been thrown into detention centers, breastfeeding mothers have been separated from their children, and all in the name of the law of the land. And it is essential to follow the law of the land. But the law of the land should not be cruel. It should not be unjust. Jesus taught us that even the most sacred of laws cannot imprison us. “The sabbath is for man, not man for the sabbath.” Laws must instead serve us and make us a better people and country. This does not mean no one can be corrected, but we must ...