Out Our Way: It's the Cowboy Way

Leviticus 19:18 Mk 12: 30-31 'You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart...and your neighbor as yourself'

Out our way - the lights on trees, houses, and on the streets bring a great blessing to all. The first Christmas tree lights came about, I am told, when Luther was in the forest and saw the lights of heaven through the pines. Though there aren't a lot of trees on the prairie, the star light and Northern Lights still shine. Like Martin Luther, we are in awe this time of year from the sight.

As many folks know, especially with the news of the war against Israel in the Middle East and the anti-semitism so rampant in Academia and in many cities in Europe and the USA - Hannukah and Christmas celebrated at this time ... which is not surprising, since both the Torah and the Gospels proclaim that God's people shall "love thy neighbor". It is the way of the faithful, and it is the "cowboy way". In cowboy country, it is common for even strangers to jump at the chance to help other folks out.

Despite the hate and toxic views applauded and promoted by the so-called celebrities, professors, and professional rabble rousers, a lot of folks are finding the path described in the Old and New Testament is the right trail, and are leaving the hate mongers behind. It is especially evident at this time of year when all the glitz and glitter of the season begins to wake us up to "the reason for the season".

As a "dust eater", I reckon I get a pretty good view of the herd as a whole. Point, swing and flank riders don't see the whole panorama like we "dust eaters" do. Maybe that is why Jesus chose "dust eaters" as His disciples. I am not saying anything against the powerful, rich and famous folk whom the world sees as "important" - but just like when working the herd, it is those "dust eaters" who move things along.

Nobody notices the dust eater who gets that reluctant heifer to keep up - or helps the lost calf reunite with "mama" - but it's the cowboy way to act as the need arises and help. It is the disciple's way as well. This season of lights - from the menorah and the Christmas tree - is the season of the "dust eater" who may ride in the dust of obscurity, but in the Light of God. It is the Cowboy way.

Be blessed and be a blessing!

Brother John, the old "dust eater"

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The Rev. John Bruington is the retired pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Havre. He now lives in Colorado, but continues to write "Out Our Way." He can be reached for comment or dialogue at [email protected].