Devotion

Much of the church’s history with indigenous peoples is one of telling them what to do and believe. A shift to listening changes the relationship. My Lakota friend took me to his home reservation where his father served as an Episcopal priest. I listened closely, quickly learning my host had a very wise heart. On a Sunday, he led worship outdoors for those attending the annual powwow. A table covered with a Pendleton blanket was the altar. We sang Lakota words to familiar hymn tunes. The bread and wine nourished us. It was a celebration of two traditions and cultures. We have much more work to do in understanding and listening to our Native American siblings in Christ. We must listen to their faith journey as they tell it. As we journey with our indigenous neighbors in seeking a wise heart, God promises to prosper the work of our hands—and hearts.