The Tin Man

Anthony Teixeira, a talented Christ the King’s cantor, appeared in this weekend’s production of The Wizard of Oz by the Cape Cod Symphony and the Cotuit Center for the Arts.  He played the Tin Man with the style and sound we’ve all come to expect of Anthony.  And, he wielded a pretty mean ax.   I attended a packed-audience performance on Saturday. 

We all know the Tin Man wanted a heart.   Inside he was hollow – empty.   Here’s what the Wizard told him: “Back where I come from, there are men who do nothing all day but good deeds.  They are called phila-, er, er, philanth-er, good-deed doers!  And their hearts are no bigger than yours.  But! – They have one thing you haven’t got.  A testimonial! 

Therefore, in consideration of your kindness, I take pleasure at this time in presenting you with a small token of our esteem and affection.  And remember, my sentimental friend, that a heart is not judged by how much you love, but by how much you are loved by others."

Today’s Gospel according to Mark reads in part, “After making the crossing to the other side of the sea, Jesus and his disciples came to land at Gennesaret and tied up there.  As they were leaving the boat, people immediately recognized him.  They scurried about the surrounding country and began to bring in the sick on mats to wherever they heard he was. 

Whatever villages or towns or countryside he entered, they laid the sick in the marketplaces and begged him that they might touch only the tassel on his cloak; and as many as touched it were healed."

Jesus was – and still is – much loved by others.   Anthony, our Tin Man, is immediately recognizable, is kind, and is loved as well.  We thank him for what he gives to Christ the King – his time, talent, and love. 

Deacon David Pierce