P ♰ C

by Jean Allen

I love the Trinity, which could rightly be called ‘The Forgotten Trinity’ along with the Holy Spirit’s ‘The Forgotten Paraclete’. In spite of the fact that every time we make the sign of the cross we are invoking the Trinity, Trinitarian awareness is generally reserved for Trinity Sunday. The mystery of the three in one is not an easy concept to grasp, despite attempts to explain it with shamrocks or water in its various states. It’s easier for us to just mostly forget about it and carry on.

Why do I love the Trinity? Because I don’t have to completely understand theological concepts in order to know that I am not excluded from this completely loving and always laughing circle of light. It is not something ‘out there’ having a great time while I am designated to be ‘down here’ in the gloom. The only reason I might remain down here in the dark is if I choose to exclude myself from the circle of light. The Trinity never excludes any of us from joining the circle. We were made to be part of this circle and of this wonderful community.

If I choose to exclude myself from the Trinitarian Circle, as Jesus said in the Gospel, I am condemned already. Condemned by me. The Father doesn’t condemn, Jesus doesn’t condemn and the Holy Spirit doesn’t condemn. They simply honor my choice and they don’t push themselves where they are not wanted. But they are not above arranging circumstances that encourage me to seek and enter the circle. They’re crafty that way!

There’s an open invitation to join the Trinitarian circle. There are no prerequisites. You don’t have to clean up or make yourself worthy to join. It’s a ‘Come As You Are’ party. Oh. Hold on. There actually are some prerequisites. You need to leave that grudge behind. You need to abandon your righteous judgements. You need to be willing to love without condition. The door is always wide open and the invitation is never withheld.

But our baggage just won’t fit through.