Old Dogs, New Tricks

AM Psalm 38 • PM Psalm 119:25-48
1 Samuel 20:1-23 • Acts 12:18-25 • Mark 2:13-22

A common thread in our readings today was the presence of bad-tempered and violent kings. In 1 Samuel, we hear of David’s persecution by Johnathan’s father, King Saul. In Acts, before he is “eaten by worms” and dies, King Herod sits on his throne making pronouncements to his people with whom he has become angry. Both are old rulers who cannot let go of power.

These men are stubborn, unwilling to listen, and even more reticent to adjust their behavior. They are those proverbial old dogs who refuse to learn new tricks.

The thing is, I’ve seen old dogs learn new tricks. I have witnessed so many people adapt and learn new ways of being in the world, regardless of their age or status because they took the time to listen, learn, and adjust. They heard the voices of people saying “Black lives matter” and “These are my new pronouns” and didn’t run in fear but walked alongside their discomfort towards a better understanding of their neighbor.

So, I guess Jesus’ analogy of new wine in old wineskins holds true. You can’t fill a vessel that isn’t ready to receive it. The call for me is to accept the invitation to be made anew, to be made ready, and in that newness be filled in unprecedented and life-giving ways.

Written by Emma Mitchell

When not serving the youth and families at St. Paul’s as the Youth Director, I can usually be found curled up with a book, attempting a craft project, or hanging out with Dave and our small menagerie of animals.