The theology of the Brussels Sprout

Do you like sprouts?

That was the question posed by Rod, the vicar, in the children’s talk as he returned, refreshed after his well-earned break.

Sprouts and Epiphany?! The congregation was invited to move to the central aisle if they were sprout lovers and to stay in their seats if those cabbagey delicacies were not to their taste.

An exodus ensued as an overwhelming majority literally voted with their feet…good news for sprout farmers. But what has this got to do with Epiphany?

It was a practical demonstration of how people belong to different groups; in this case sprout lovers and sprout haters. The Magi followed the star to bring their gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh to the infant Jesus. They belonged to a certain group. They were Gentiles, worshipping the new-born Messiah, who was born to be saviour of all - Jews, Gentiles…and yes sprout lovers and sprout haters.

At this Epiphany season we give thanks for God’s gift of love for us all, each and every one. How can we show and share that love?