On being a good houseguest

July 3, 2025 - Rev. Jennifer Masada
Dear St. Augustine's 'ohana,
Last week, reflected on the courage it takes to let go—of fear, of control, of all the ways we try to manage or protect ourselves. We named the invitation to release whatever keeps us from love, and to trust that when we do, we make space for the Spirit to move. Letting go, we said, is not weakness. It’s how love flows.

This week, we continue that flow—not just in surrender, but in gracious presence. We’re invited to stay open even when we are not received or accepted as we are. We are to travel light, even when burdens arise, to be at peace, and to carry peace wherever we go. We read in Luke 10 that Jesus sends out his followers not as conquerors and not as judges, but as guests. What does Christ teach us about being loving guests in our communities? In our families? In our own minds and bodies?

“Whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace to this house.’” We are to receive what is given with grace and gratitude. To eat what is offered. To stay present—not flitting from house to house looking for better treatment. Jesus teaches spiritual humility, inviting us to be content, grounded, and open to what comes.

And if we are not welcomed? Don’t retaliate. Don’t argue. Just shake the dust off your feet—and move on. 

What would it look like in our lives if we stopped clinging to rejection? What if we released resentment like dust falling from our soles? If we trusted that the Spirit keeps flowing, even where we are not accepted or received with love and grace?

We are guests not only in others' homes, but in ourselves. The God-gifted temples we call our bodies and minds are temporary vessels—ours to care for as guests while we are here on the planet. What if each day, we treated our hearts and minds like a guest room for the Spirit? We wouldn’t invite someone into a house piled with dirty dishes and laundry and say, “Sorry, I haven’t cleaned up in a while. Hope you don’t mind the mess.” But we do this spiritually all the time. We rush into prayer or try to extend love without tending to the inner room first.

To be good houseguests of the Spirit, we need regular cleansing. Spiritual cleansing doesn't mean perfection; it is a daily process that facilitates flow. Allow Spirit to move through, clearing what clogs us up, so we can flow with grace, wisdom, and love.

Flow as the Spirit flows. Not rigid. Not reactive. Not clinging to the past or obsessed with results. Be present. Gentle. Open. Let the Spirit keep your heart soft. Let love keep you moving. And when you are not received or accepted as you are, when your peace is not welcomed— shake off the dust, but not your love. Keep flowing.
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Because love never ends. And the Spirit never stops moving.
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Blessings,
Vicar Jennifer +

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