Message
Ill. Jerry Burfitt, 33°
In Scottish Rite we define the 4th through 14th degrees as being the Lodge of Perfection. Have you ever pondered what we mean by perfection? The American College Dictionary defines perfection as “the state or quality of being perfect.” Could we possibly think of ourselves as being perfect? I think not, but we are clearly taught that it should be our goal.
Our Blue Lodge masonry teaches us that we have an immortal soul and admonishes us to be prepared for that “Glorious Morning of the Resurrection.” That is to emulate He who was perfect, as well as we can learn to do. We are taught that our duty is to not be better than our brothers but to be better than ourselves. Another way to express this is to strive for perfection. The degrees of the Lodge of Perfection expand our Blue Lodge teachings of what a Mason’s relation to his God and fellowman should be. I think we as Masons have a duty to be as prepared as possible for that inevitable moment in time when we shall stand before that Great White Throne and receive our judgment. Once we learn and begin practicing this duty, others will no doubt want to follow our example.
We often express this as searching for and following the light. Should we keep this light to ourselves or should we be like disciples and spread the “word”? Let your Blue Lodge brothers know about our quest for perfection and offer them a petition for our reunion on March 19, 2011.
I would like to thank Ill. Ralph Franklin who “answered the call” to be our Personal Representative. Bro. Ralph did an admirable job for Scottish Rite and the Valley of Huntsville in particular. A big thank you to Ralph and his wife Libby.
Illustrious Brother Jerry Burfitt, 33°
Personal Representative to the Sovereign Grand Inspector General for the Orient of Alabama