We had a small invasion of oddly dressed children come to our Church. They would yell "Trick or Treat" and People would pop out and put candy in their bags. They would say, "Thank you" and move on to the next decorated car. It's an odd tradition. They dress up, we give them candy. They don't have to do anything else but show up at our church. One couple of girls didn't even dress up. When asked what they were one of them said "in third grade". Basically all they have to do is show up with an open bag and we give them candy.
Reminds me of many of the stories Jesus told about God's love, or God's healing grace. All the people had to do was show up. Some of them didn't even present themselves. Some Jesus just walked by, at least one was healed long-distance, and one was lowered through the roof by his friends. All they did was show up. All we have to do is present ourselves to God, an open vessel, and love, mercy, grace, even salvation are poured in. It's an odd tradition, thanks be to God.
Loving God, we come to you as open vessels, needing to have your love poured in. We come as a motley and rag-tag bunch. Some of us look quite bedraggled, others are hiding behind masks. Some are putting on airs, others can barely drag ourselves into your presence. But each of us comes needing something that only you can give. We open ourselves to your loving, your healing, your mercy and grace. Fill us, fill us till we overflow into the whole world..............Amen
(Adapted from a reflection by Rev. Peggy Jeffries)