November 22, 2021
Who better than The Peanuts to wish us a happy week and put a smile on our face?!
May we all have a smile on our face and in our heart this week (and always) as we remember and give thanks to God for who God is and who we are to God! Happy Thanksgiving week!
Blessings. And prayers.
November 21, 2021
Week two without a live, in-person worship service leaves me feeling sad. I miss the community. And we have one more week to go (November 28 will also be recorded, sadly).
However, I used some of the extra time to catch-up on the blogging I have been behind on for weeks. Every day I make a note of some way that God has been shown to me, something I am grateful for or sometimes grumpy about, but writing them out and getting them posted can take a few days. But today, I am current. Today. 😊
So I give thanks for the time and energy to write. Also, please know I appreciate all of you who read these posts.
Blessings. And prayers.
November 20, 2021
On this Satisfied Saturday, I give thanks for generosity. Many folks donated canned/non-perishable food items to be sent to four area school food banks. The congregation calls it the "Can Do" project and it is an annual event.
However, the generosity does not stop with just collecting food - there are also financial donations. And then several folks (only a few are pictured here) gathered today to sort and pack the items for delivery.
Blessings. And prayers.
November 19, 2021
I saw this today (I am not the “me” - John Roedel wrote this) and leave it here for all of us:
Me: Hey God.
God: Hello.....
Me: I'm falling apart. Can you put me back together?
God: I would rather not.
Me: Why?
God: Because you aren't a puzzle.
Me: What about all of the pieces of my life that are falling down onto the ground?
God: Let them stay there for a while. They fell off for a reason. Take some time and decide if you need any of those pieces back.
Me: You don't understand! I'm breaking down!
God: No - you don't understand. You are breaking through. What you are feeling are just growing pains. You are shedding the things and the people in your life that are holding you back. You aren't falling apart. You are falling into place. Relax. Take some deep breaths and allow those things you don't need anymore to fall off of you. Quit holding onto the pieces that don't fit you anymore. Let them fall off. Let them go.
Me: Once I start doing that, what will be left of me?
God: Only the very best pieces of you.
Me: I'm scared of changing.
God: I keep telling you - YOU AREN'T CHANGING!! YOU ARE BECOMING!
Me: Becoming who?
God: Becoming who I created you to be! A person of light and love and charity and hope and courage and joy and mercy and grace and compassion. I made you for more than the shallow pieces you have decided to adorn yourself with that you cling to with such greed and fear. Let those things fall off of you. I love you! Don't change! ... Become! Become! Become who I made you to be. I'm going to keep telling you this until you remember it.
Me: There goes another piece.
God: Yep. Let it be.
Me: So ... I'm not broken?
God: Of course Not! - but you are breaking like the dawn. It's a new day. Become!!!
Blessings. And prayers.
November 18, 2021
Saying goodbye to a loved one is never easy. Yet something that can help with making the transition of life without them is a funeral or Memorial Service. I know they can be difficult and wrought with emotion, but the gathering of the community is important. It is also a tangible way for God to reach out to us to remind us we are not alone.
So for the family I was honored to walk with today, I hope you remember you are not alone as you travel this path. Prayers go with you. As does God.
Blessings. And prayers.
November 17, 202
On a really long day filled with joy and laughter, but also many concerns, there is celebration - seven years serving this congregation. Thank you so much to the one who remembered in such a beautiful way:
Blessings. And prayers.
November 16, 2021
Tuesday’s Thoughts on Scripture comes from Revelation chapter 1, verse 8: “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty. (NRSV)
From A to Z - beginning to end - everlasting to everlasting. God always was, is now, and always will be. What a blessing that the same God who created the world, sent Jesus, brought my parents and grandparents to this world, and comforted me when they passed, will comfort and be with me in whatever comes. Whenever it comes. And that God is not simply any god, but is the Almighty. The Omnipotent, who knows all and is in all. Who is Supreme. In that understanding is not only comfort, but promise, and Who we can rely on, no matter what.
Perhaps the rest of the book of Revelation contains images that concern you. Remember the promise and how the book begins - God is with us. That is a promise to hang onto and remind ourselves of every single day!
Blessings. And prayers.
November 15, 2021
Snoopy gives some very good advice here:
Blessings. And prayers.
November 14, 2021
We may not have been able to gather in person for worship service today, but we were still together for Confirmation Class. What a wonderful group of youth. We talked about kings and David and Psalms - even singing some contemporary tunes inspired by words written ages ago.
The best part, however, was gathering for prayer at the end of class. Today’s request was something we each hope for in our world. Peace, health, and forgiveness, were just a sampling of the things on these young minds.
Lord, you hear these prayers and know these youth. Have mercy on each one, through Christ we pray. Amen.
Blessings. And prayers.
November 13, 2021
On this Satisfied Saturday, I am grateful for leadership. Those who are willing to go the extra mile with their time, talent and treasure. Without a doubt, God’s work is accomplished much more easily in community. And the community is amazing.
God uses every one of God’s children through the gifts God gives. So thank you for letting those gifts shine!
Blessings. And prayers.
November 12, 2021
The word for the day - thankful. For improved technology and willing folks/staff to make things happen.
As we are having the congregation’s sanctuary painted, the best option for worship this week (and maybe a couple more) is a recorded service only. Before, when we did this during the early COVID shutdowns, recording was cumbersome and time consuming. VERY time consuming. So much so, I have tried to forget. But thanks to updated internet, programming, equipment, etc., today was a cinch.
Oh, I am so grateful!!! And thankful!!!!
Blessings. And prayers.
November 11, 2021
This prayer may be a repeat, but is so very appropriate:
Prayers for all Veterans on this Veteran’s Day. Thank you so much for your service!
Blessings. And prayers.
November 10, 2021
The word for the day - busy! Studies, conversations, meetings, etc., kept me going from one thing to the next. But….it is Wednesday, one of my favorite days, so it was wonderful, life-giving and affirming.
How thankful I am for those who help make Wednesday special by showing up! You are appreciated!
Blessings. And prayers.
November 9, 2021
Tuesday’s Thoughts on Scripture comes from Hebrews 10:12: But when Christ had offered for all time a single sacrifice for sins, “he sat down at the right hand of God.” (NRSV)
When I read this line, I thought of Jesus saying, “it is finished,” as he breathed his last on the cross. His coming to earth to teach, heal, and show has ended. With the work done, Christ returned to where he was before, in the beginning as a person of the Triune God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Because of that promise, of that assurance, we also are returned or reconciled to God. And that promise is permanent, forever!
On a Sunday when we will be reminded that nothing on this earth is permanent (the gospel includes Mark 13:1-2), the assurance that Christ has made our life with God everlasting is comforting. We can trust that when our temples (whatever we falsely consider strong enough to save us like our health, our bank account, our relationships, etc.) fall apart, our constant and eternal hope is intact. Thanks be to God!!!
Blessings. And prayers.
November 8, 2021
The smile for the week is this wish for Montana’s birthday.
Happy 132nd!
Blessings. And prayers.
November 7, 2021
For all the saints, who from their labors rest, goes the hymn, and also the prayers of thanksgiving, not only for those who now rest from their labors on this earth, but the current saints and the future saints. For yes, God makes us all saints, not because of what we do, but who we are - God’s. Thank you to our Intern who reminded us of that promise on this All Saint’s Sunday.
And for all the families and friends of the dozen saints of our congregation who now rest with God for eternity, prayers of peace and comfort continue.
Blessings. And prayers.
November 6, 2021
On this Satisfied Saturday, I give thanks for rest. The ability to allow the body to take a break following our booster shots. And, yes, I also give thanks for immunizations. May the rest and the vaccine restore and protect our bodies, and those we come into contact with.
Blessings. And prayers.
November 5, 2021
A phone call from a friend and colleague reinforced what I said yesterday about many who are hurting and ready to quit. Certainly "clergy" is not the only profession that COVID has pushed to the edge. However, when someone says there is so much stress in their call that their health is being jeopardized, that gets your attention. But what can I do? Not much except listen, and pray, pray, pray.
Almighty God, strengthen your pastors. Support, encourage and protect them. Give them hope and help in the midst of things they cannot control or change. And grant understanding and compassion from those they serve. Amen.
Blessings. And prayers.
November 4, 2021
We spent time today and yesterday on Zoom for the annual Bishop’s Convocation. We learned and talked about many things, but the main focus was our style of leadership as pastors. We all know the last couple of years have been different and challenging. We were reminded that how we lead, and how we adapt to leading, can make a difference in the angst or joy of the congregation to which we are called.
With all that said, and while the information was good, it was difficult for many to hear who have suffered during this time without much support or encouragement. I am grateful, so grateful, to serve where I do, because I have definitely been supported and encouraged. Thanks be to God - and prayers for those who are hurting and ready to quit.
Blessings. And prayers.
November 3, 2021
The Henri Nouwen Society shared this of his writing today in the Daily Devotion:
People who have come to know the joy of God do not deny the darkness, but they choose not to live in it. They claim that the light that shines in the darkness can be trusted more than the darkness itself and that a little bit of light can dispel a lot of darkness. They point each other to flashes of light here and there, and remind each other that they reveal the hidden but real presence of God. They discover that there are people who heal each other’s wounds, forgive each other’s offenses, share their possessions, foster the spirit of community, celebrate the gifts they have received, and live in constant anticipation of the full manifestation of God’s glory.
We are people of Light! May this be a reminder to all of us to SHINE!
Blessings. And prayers.
November 2, 2021
Tuesday’s Thoughts on Scripture comes from Revelation 21:4: [God] will wipe every tear from their eyes. Death will be no more; mourning and crying and pain will be no more, for the first things have passed away.” (NRSV)
This upcoming Sunday we celebrate All Saints (yesterday was All Saints Day, but we celebrate in worship the Sunday following the 1st of November). We will remember aloud a dozen people of the congregation who passed this last year, and invite others to honor their loved ones with written names or in their hearts. It is a solemn beginning to the worship service. It is a reminder that many have passed into a new realm over these last 365 days, causing us to grieve and miss them.
That is why this passage from Revelation can bring so much hope. At the appointed time, there will be no more death and mourning. Or tears. Or pain. What an amazing time to look forward to!! But until then, there is still hope and promise. God is with us now in our pain, understands, and grieves with us. We are never alone. We are never without hope for the day we live forever with God in the eternal kingdom.
Blessings. And prayers.
November 1, 2021
In honor of Reformation Sunday yesterday, here is a smile for the week.
And yes, yesterday, we sang A Mighty Fortress. Of course!
Blessings. And prayers.
October 31, 2021
Here are a couple of pictures to help celebrate Halloween:
Simon as Harry Potter
Blessings. And prayers.
October 30, 2021
On this Satisfied Saturday, I am grateful for birthdays. Someone’s special day reminds me how thankful I am they were born and are in my life. It also reminds me how quickly time passes and another year rolls around. So, since hubby has a birthday tomorrow, I will remember to make it special for him and to give thanks we can celebrate together once again.
Blessings. And prayers.
October 29, 2021
Richard Rohr posted this question in his Daily Devotion that was asked by Bishop Michael Curry: “Do my actions look like love?” I pondered this deeply as friends who had moved to another state to try making a new start had to return. They stopped by to say hello, let me know they are back and share about some of their experiences. Oh, the things they have endured and the challenges they continue working to overcome. How can I show them love? By helping financially? By giving them encouragement? By setting them up with networks in their new town? Sometimes it is hard to know how best to love someone. Just how much can, or should, we do?
Then, in the devotion “God Pause” I read this:
Pastors often say that love is more than a feeling; love involves action. In this gospel reading even the argumentative scribe recognizes that loving one’s neighbor as oneself is more important than any self-serving offering or sacrifice we might make. While our salvation in Christ is not dependent upon our capacity to love, the kingdom (or kin-dom) of God is not far off when we extend the love that has first been freely given to us.
Hmm…maybe showing love to my friends (and others) includes all the things I mentioned. And even more, if possible.
Blessings. And prayers.
October 28, 2021
Since it has come to my attention that today is National Chocolate Day, this seems to be appropriate to share.
A friend gifted me a flip chart with lots of good sayings, but this page is my favorite to sit by the M&M dispenser. Happy Day!
Blessings. And prayers.
October 27, 2021
The word for the day - thankful! For those who do what they say they will.
It seems in this time, it is difficult to get contractors/service folks to follow through with their promises. Today someone took the time to talk with me about an urgent need, come and take a look at the issue, and then get back with me with what can be done and the costs.
WOW! Doing what you said you would! Thank you! Thank you more than I can say!
Blessings. And prayers.
PS They are not the only company who has done what they said they would. We have actually been very fortunate with the folks we have recently hired. And you are ALL appreciated.
October 26, 2021
Tuesday’s Thoughts on Scripture comes from Psalm 46:1: God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. (NRSV)
As we prepare to remember the Reformation this coming Sunday, I am struck by the words of hope in this verse from Psalm 46. I can imagine Martin Luther and others reciting this over and over as people raged at one another over differences of opinion and theology. God is our refuge and strength. God is present in this trouble. God will help us.
The Reformation was a bloody time. Luther and others started a revolution that the church was not going to let happen without a fight. There were also some who took the time of change as permission to attack, destroy and even kill those who disagreed. God is our refuge and strength. God is present in this trouble. God will help us.
What about today? There is still COVID. There is still cancer. There is still job loss. There is still aging. There is still pain. Maybe today is the perfect time to be reminded: God is our refuge and strength. God is present in this trouble. God will help us.
Perhaps these words can be the beginning (or the encouragement) of our own reformation - reforming and transforming from hopeless to hope-filled. God is our refuge and strength. God is present in this trouble. God will help us.
Blessings. And prayers.
October 25, 2021
In honor of Halloween coming soon, the smile for the week is this picture of Snoopy, ready for the holiday.
Blessings. And prayers.
October 24, 2021
The word for the day? Fun!!!! With worship, First Holy Communion Class and lunch with the High School Youth, it was a fun day!!
But I also learned something from one of the First Holy Communion theologians. This young one has already taken instruction in another church and when we finished the class, I asked what were some of the differences they noticed. I expected something simple, but the answer I received was this: in the class I had before, I learned the how of Holy Communion. How to hold my hands, how to stand, etc. Today I have learned more about the why. Why we celebrate, what it means, etc. WOW! What insight for a youngster. And what a good reminder to continue addressing the why in most things "church" - it is important.
Blessings. And prayers.
October 23, 2021
On this Satisfied Saturday, I give thanks for cleaning. Well, to be honest, I find it hard to actually be thankful for cleaning. However, I am thankful for a clean home. And having a home to clean. And a helpful hubby. So…I will just call it thankful for cleaning. 😀
Blessings. And prayers.
October 22, 2021
The following from Henri Nouwen through the Henri Nouwen Society’s "Daily Meditation" spoke deeply to my heart. I have longed thought this to be true, and how I believe we will know our loved ones in the eternal life to follow. Nouwen wrote:
True friendships are lasting because true love is eternal. A friendship in which heart speaks to heart is a gift from God, and no gift that comes from God is temporary or occasional. All that comes from God participates in God’s eternal life. Love between people, when given by God, is stronger than death. In this sense, true friendships continue beyond the boundary of death. When you have loved deeply that love can grow even stronger after the death of the person you love. This is the core message of Jesus.
When Jesus died, the disciples’ friendship with him did not diminish. On the contrary, it grew. This is what the sending of the Spirit was all about. The Spirit of Jesus made Jesus’ friendship with his disciples everlasting, stronger, and more intimate than before his death. That is what Paul experienced when he said, “It is no longer I, but Christ living in me” (Galatians 2:20).
You have to trust that every true friendship has no end, that a communion of saints exists among all those, living and dead, who have truly loved God and one another. You know from experience how real this is. Those you have loved deeply and who have died live on in you, not just as memories but as real presences.
Dare to love and be a real friend. The love you give and receive is a reality that will lead you closer and closer to God as well as to those whom God has given you to love.
Thank you so much for this! After all, why would God give us relationships on earth if they were not meant to continue after death?!
Also, God, thank you for the beautiful, colorful scenery on our drive today. Here is a small example:
Blessings. And prayers.
October 21, 2021
The word for the day - thankful - for refreshing laughter. In meetings, in conversations, and, most fun, randomly in the local book store. Oh how laugher can revive my heart and soul.
Hopefully your day included a laugh. They certainly made my day better.
Blessings. And prayers.
October 20, 2021
One of the hardest things for me to hear is, I am disappointed in you, or something you represent or serve, like the church. My immediate response to something like this is to get my hackles up and spit out a defense. However today, I listened. And somehow the response, I am glad you brought this to my attention, kept coming to my head and out of my mouth.
See, the person with the comments and critique does not know the entire story. And the information that I know (still not the whole story) will be held in confidence. So I had to simply listen and not defend or explain. After all, they will think what they want and no explanation I gave would probably have changed their mind anyway.
In the end, I hope I remember this lesson the next time something like this happens…because I feel certain it will.
Blessings. And prayers.
October 19, 2021
Tuesday’s Thoughts on Scripture comes from the Gospel of Mark, chapter 10, verse 46: As [Jesus] and his disciples and a large crowd were leaving Jericho, Bartimaeus son of Timaeus, a blind beggar, was sitting by the roadside. (NRSV)
What stands out to me in this verse from the Gospel of Mark is all the detail. Not customary for this Gospel known for its brevity and immediacy, there is much here that sets the stage. First, Jesus is accompanied by his disciples and a crowd; and not just any crowd, a large crowd. Thus it seems important to know there are many people with Jesus as he leaves Jericho and heads toward Jerusalem. Next, we are told the name of the man they encounter - Bartimaeus, son of Timaeus. It is not often we know names, much less the reminder that “Bar” means son, thus Bartimaeus. Finally we learn Bartimaeus is a blind beggar.
It seems evident, because of all we learn in just this one verse, there will be new insights in this encounter between Jesus and Bartimaeus. As we read on, we are told Jesus stops the crowd and calls Bartimaeus to him, asking him specifically what he wants Jesus to do for him. Perhaps we could assume he would want his sight restored, yet Jesus gives Bartimaeus the opportunity and the honor, on his own, to make the request of his deepest desire.
What could this mean? I wonder if a part of it is to learn to give another the opportunity and honor to ask for what is most needed and desired in their life, instead of making assumptions. After all, we might be surprised by what they ask. We might also be surprised by how empowered they feel to be asked. All of which might be the point - we cannot know what someone else deeply desires, needs, or seeks from God.
Leave it to Jesus to teach us, yet again, how to care for another in new, honoring, and empowering ways.
Blessings. And prayers.
Oh, and I cannot miss the opportunity to post the latest school picture of Simon. You are growing so fast!
