A big thank you to all who contributed to the fund, and thanks for coming to the party.
Eric
12/30/07
Eric's 10th Anniversary Party as Sexton!
A big thank you to all who contributed to the fund, and thanks for coming to the party.
Eric
12/25/07
Christmas Day -- December 25, 2007
CHRISTMASAnd they shall name him "Emmanuel," which means, "God is with us."
Matthew 1:23
Soon a baby's cries will echo throughout the dark of night, above the soft sound of the barnyard animals. Like millions of parents before and after them, Joseph and Mary are woken abruptly by the baby's wailing. Moments of quiet are cherished, sleep is elusive.
As they cradle little Jesus, they see his precious, newborn face, and the Christ child wails. Perhaps his parents see something more. They know there is something unique about this baby. The angel tells them so—and they see it in his eyes. He hears the cries of the children across the land, and cries with them.Through this tiny baby, one day, "God will wipe away every tear from their eyes" (Rev. 7:17b). For this, we join in singing the hymn Softly Falls the Snow:
Hearts of mankind are warm,
Grief and sorrow are hushed.Soon a baby's cries will echo throughout the dark of night, above the soft sound of the barnyard animals. Like millions of parents before and after them, Joseph and Mary are woken abruptly by the baby's wailing. Moments of quiet are cherished, sleep is elusive.
As they cradle little Jesus, they see his precious, newborn face, and the Christ child wails. Perhaps his parents see something more. They know there is something unique about this baby. The angel tells them so—and they see it in his eyes. He hears the cries of the children across the land, and cries with them.Through this tiny baby, one day, "God will wipe away every tear from their eyes" (Rev. 7:17b). For this, we join in singing the hymn Softly Falls the Snow:
Hearts of mankind are warm,
The sorrow of life dies away;
Rejoice! The Christ child comes soon!
The little child, godly and poor,
makes the hearts so warm,
stars are radiant over the forest,
Have joy! The Christ child comes soon!
Indeed, the Christ child, both godly and poor, comes, and the sorrow of life passes away. Have a blessed Christmas friends, Shalom/Friede.
- James Semmelroth Darnell
May all tears be turned to joy through the light of Christ now come among us. May our coming year be warmed, and our world warmed, by this same light. And may we share in solidarity of care for all, across borders and landscapes, ecumenical and interfaith. Amen.
12/24/07
Christmas Eve -- Monday, December 24
… an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said,"Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins." -- Matthew 1:20,21 On the last Sunday in Advent, my church, holds a "Candles & Carols" service. We celebrate the birth of Jesus and the culmination of the Advent season. In place of a sermon, stories are read that correspond to Christmas hymns. At the close of the service, lights in the sanctuary are turned off, candles are lit, and we sing "Silent Night" to commemorate Jesus as the"light of the world." For some, the candle's flame symbolizes the events of the past year. It remembers the ups and downs of life's roller-coaster. It memorializes the loved ones who have left this earth but still remain close in heart. The candle's flame brings relief and reassurance along with tears as the Advent season closes. For others, in the candle's flame is found a portal to view the upcoming year, and the hopes, opportunities, and struggles the next year promises. The fire reaffirms the presence of God in the day-to-day, regardless ofcircumstances, and reinforces steadfast faith. Regardless of how each approaches this moment from year-to-year, they are partaking in the service and singing the hymn within a community of love. No matter what the previous year has put a person through or what the next year promises to bring, God, acting in part through the community of believers in the church, will continue to strengthen and uphold each of the individuals raising a candle. - Beau Underwood Journey with us, O God of our dreams and longings, help our candles to stay kindled in each of our days, and in our community together.
12/23/07
Fourth Sunday in Advent -- December 23, 2007
Give ear, O Shepherd of Israel, you who lead Joseph like a flock! Psalm 80:1 Growing up, the sounds of Crosby's recordings were as familiar as the smells of Christmas dinner. Lately, Crosby's recording of "Do You HearWhat I Hear?" has become a new favorite of mine. He recorded it in 1964, at age 59, his voice aged like a fine wine. He sings majestically:
"Said the shepherd boy to the mighty king, do you know what I know? In your palace warm, mighty king, do you know what I know? A child shivers in the cold, let us bring him silver and gold… Said the king to the people everywhere, listen to what I say: pray for peace people everywhere. The child sleeping in the night, he will bring us goodness and light…" The theology in the song makes perfect sense to me. In Mary's song in Luke she proclaims that God "has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly; he has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty." So often we forget it is sung by a teenage peasant girl singing praise to God for lifting God's people out of their hopelessness. In the song, a shepherd boy has the audacity to say to the king, "Hey, get out of your heated palace. There is one who will light a fire in our hearts." Through this baby, eternal justice is won and we are taught that all are equal. We are urged as people of God to pray for the peace that the babe would teach us. But the writer of the epistle, 1 John declares, "Little children, let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action." - James Semmelroth Darnell Loving God, as we begin another church year celebrating the absurdly amazing inbreaking of God through the unexpected; let us not only pray for peace, but with your grace, act for peace.
"Said the shepherd boy to the mighty king, do you know what I know? In your palace warm, mighty king, do you know what I know? A child shivers in the cold, let us bring him silver and gold… Said the king to the people everywhere, listen to what I say: pray for peace people everywhere. The child sleeping in the night, he will bring us goodness and light…" The theology in the song makes perfect sense to me. In Mary's song in Luke she proclaims that God "has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly; he has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty." So often we forget it is sung by a teenage peasant girl singing praise to God for lifting God's people out of their hopelessness. In the song, a shepherd boy has the audacity to say to the king, "Hey, get out of your heated palace. There is one who will light a fire in our hearts." Through this baby, eternal justice is won and we are taught that all are equal. We are urged as people of God to pray for the peace that the babe would teach us. But the writer of the epistle, 1 John declares, "Little children, let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action." - James Semmelroth Darnell Loving God, as we begin another church year celebrating the absurdly amazing inbreaking of God through the unexpected; let us not only pray for peace, but with your grace, act for peace.
12/22/07
The Third Saturday in Advent -- December 22, 2007
And the ransomed of the LORD shall return, and come to Zion with singing; everlasting joy shall be upon their heads; they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.
Isaiah 35:10 Toddlers crawling around in costumes of barn animals
Newborn Jesus lying in the manger with gifts of gold,
frankincense, and myrrh nearby.
Hot wax drips on my hands…
Looking around, there are wreaths decorated
by the congregation in red and yellow. A pine tree that our town had planted twelve years ago
now stands in front of us all.
Decorated equally on top except for the bottom,
where all the little ones fumbled
to land each limb with a decoration or two. The serene "Silent Night" plays its tune and the
flames slowly move from side to side.
A gentle hand touches the tips of my fingers and clasps it tight,
like how I used to do when I was seven or six, or five,
like how I used to do when I was seven or six, or five,
with my momma and poppa.
I look down only to find my little brother dressed as Jacob.
His scraggly white beard and brown long robe, and that
famous smile gleams even without his two front teeth.
I can only join him with his innocence.
Because this day is what brings all of us together
Because this day is what brings all of us together
it's a celebration of our hard work and a reminder of why we are living.
This special day…
a day with hope for what every day can be. - Danica Lute God of children and magical moments shared—may we ever remember your hopeful exuberance in a gentle pressed hand and sweet smile.
12/21/07
The Third Friday in Advent - December 21, 2007
Isaiah 35:6b
Advent is more than a revolutionary birth 2,000 years ago; it is about the ongoing effects and changes that birth continues to have. All of the prayers, festivities, acts of kindness, worship in community, songs and carols, sights and smells and tastes and textures of thes eason—are fruits of this revolutionary birth that turns us speechless and sends us forth singing for joy. We prepare our own hearts as we wait, and it is a labor of the community's heart as well—the coming together of the congregation in praise, the support a community gives to each other, and the fellowship found when people gather together. There are so many fruits unfolding from that revolutionary birth as many hearts and hands join to pray and work. This Advent, let each of us look for signs and symbols that God is journeying with us, on our road and together in the world. As we seek to share the season, let us celebrate moments of the season around us, and the ways we are astonished by hope breaking through God's world. - Beau Underwood God of ongoing transformation, show us signs of your journey with us, that we might break into joyful song.
12/20/07
The Third Thursday in Advent -- December 20, 2007
A highway shall be there, and it shall be called the Holy Way.
Isaiah 35:8a
Christmas. What a fabulous time of year. There are decorations to put up and delicious foods to be eaten. Then you have to find that perfect gift for everyone on your list and don't forget about that mall traffic. I shudder at the thought!
Simply put, it is a time for great preparations. Families unite after long absences and hugs and kisses fill the air. Makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside.
Getting ready for the festivities can consume a person entirely. Strangehow traditions never die. Even before that blessed day when Jesus was born, preparations were made for his coming. Wise men planned gifts and a very long trip. Angels prepared to share the good news and shepherds prepared to go. Courageous Mary prepared to give birth.
It takes time and intention to find some spaces, some sacred places, to reflect on the holy, even as we remember saving times and holy ways.
- Leslie Dobyns
Coming Savior, help me to let go today. I want to know you. Help me to prepare the way for you, not for me. You always know the right way.
Christmas. What a fabulous time of year. There are decorations to put up and delicious foods to be eaten. Then you have to find that perfect gift for everyone on your list and don't forget about that mall traffic. I shudder at the thought!
Simply put, it is a time for great preparations. Families unite after long absences and hugs and kisses fill the air. Makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside.
Getting ready for the festivities can consume a person entirely. Strangehow traditions never die. Even before that blessed day when Jesus was born, preparations were made for his coming. Wise men planned gifts and a very long trip. Angels prepared to share the good news and shepherds prepared to go. Courageous Mary prepared to give birth.
It takes time and intention to find some spaces, some sacred places, to reflect on the holy, even as we remember saving times and holy ways.
- Leslie Dobyns
Coming Savior, help me to let go today. I want to know you. Help me to prepare the way for you, not for me. You always know the right way.
12/19/07
The Third Wednesday in Advent -- December 19, 2007
No lion shall be there, nor any ravenous wild thing. Isaiah 35:9
Advent is a time to observe the marvelous event in human history, "God made flesh," that would ultimately result in the salvation of the world. Could any other gift ever compare?
Unfortunately, sometimes "the receiving" eclipses "the giving" element of this most momentous time. It is easy to take salvation for granted, just as it's easy to take for granted all the expensive video games, tricycle, etc., under the tree on Christmas morning. After all, didn't Christ give that we may receive? Of course! But also that we might reciprocate, or learn by example.
Isaiah speaks of God's love made manifest: security and safety! It is through God's gifts (for instance, attentive care) that we are assured.
This Advent, find a way to give security to someone else. For one, it may be helping your neighbor or a friend, or something as simple as saying "please" or "thank you" a few more times this season. Or, it might just be as simple as a hug.
-- Tony McMahon
God of peace and security, bless our giving and receiving, that wemight offer the love you give.
Advent is a time to observe the marvelous event in human history, "God made flesh," that would ultimately result in the salvation of the world. Could any other gift ever compare?
Unfortunately, sometimes "the receiving" eclipses "the giving" element of this most momentous time. It is easy to take salvation for granted, just as it's easy to take for granted all the expensive video games, tricycle, etc., under the tree on Christmas morning. After all, didn't Christ give that we may receive? Of course! But also that we might reciprocate, or learn by example.
Isaiah speaks of God's love made manifest: security and safety! It is through God's gifts (for instance, attentive care) that we are assured.
This Advent, find a way to give security to someone else. For one, it may be helping your neighbor or a friend, or something as simple as saying "please" or "thank you" a few more times this season. Or, it might just be as simple as a hug.
-- Tony McMahon
God of peace and security, bless our giving and receiving, that wemight offer the love you give.
12/18/07
The Third Tuesday in Advent - December 18, 2007
Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened.
Isaiah 35:5a
Right before the beginnings of the Advent season, North Americans celebrate Thanksgiving, a holiday centered on giving thanks for what one has.
Expressing a sincere conviction of gratitude for one's success is admirable and often times needed in a proud society, but Thanksgiving can be a nationalistic holiday that carries several negative connotations, most notably the sins and atrocities committed against Native Americans.
In light of these circumstances, the Advent season seems a much more appropriate context for giving thanks.
This is a season when an entire world can give thanks for God's blessings. Advent is a season of gratefulness, giving recognition to God for whatthe Creator has given the Creation, that all might be one and be well.
- Beau Underwood
Gracious God, this Advent, open my eyes, and open our hearts to just ways of being together in your world; with appreciation for the gifts you give so abundantly.
Right before the beginnings of the Advent season, North Americans celebrate Thanksgiving, a holiday centered on giving thanks for what one has.
Expressing a sincere conviction of gratitude for one's success is admirable and often times needed in a proud society, but Thanksgiving can be a nationalistic holiday that carries several negative connotations, most notably the sins and atrocities committed against Native Americans.
In light of these circumstances, the Advent season seems a much more appropriate context for giving thanks.
This is a season when an entire world can give thanks for God's blessings. Advent is a season of gratefulness, giving recognition to God for whatthe Creator has given the Creation, that all might be one and be well.
- Beau Underwood
Gracious God, this Advent, open my eyes, and open our hearts to just ways of being together in your world; with appreciation for the gifts you give so abundantly.
12/17/07
The Third Monday in Advent -- December 17, 2007
Strengthen the weak hands, and make firm the feeble knees.
Isaiah 35:3
Christmas is a time for…? That sentence can be finished in thousands of different ways; it is so many things for so many people.
As I struggle through the things in my life, I am reminded of the mixed bag of joy and sadness we all experience during this time of year.
Some Christmases can be a time for thankfulness, seeing family, visiting friends. For many it is the happiest time of the year; yet in difficult times, Christmas is a reminder of life's struggles, not enough money or loneliness or depression. These struggles are the weak hands, feeble knees, tender need, to which God outpours and calls us to support.
As we enjoy the holidays, let us be mindful about how others experience this season and think about how we might make everyone else's season a little brighter.
- Beau Underwood
May the love of God shine through us during this Advent waiting; present to receiving joy and sharing strength.
Christmas is a time for…? That sentence can be finished in thousands of different ways; it is so many things for so many people.
As I struggle through the things in my life, I am reminded of the mixed bag of joy and sadness we all experience during this time of year.
Some Christmases can be a time for thankfulness, seeing family, visiting friends. For many it is the happiest time of the year; yet in difficult times, Christmas is a reminder of life's struggles, not enough money or loneliness or depression. These struggles are the weak hands, feeble knees, tender need, to which God outpours and calls us to support.
As we enjoy the holidays, let us be mindful about how others experience this season and think about how we might make everyone else's season a little brighter.
- Beau Underwood
May the love of God shine through us during this Advent waiting; present to receiving joy and sharing strength.
12/16/07
The Third Sunday of Advent - December 16, 2007
The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad,the desert shall rejoice and blossom like the crocus.
Isaiah 35:1
As I began to understand the church calendar and the Advent season, I got the hang of things quickly in worship, when someone in my church lit the second candle of Peace and we sang the second verse: "Come quickly, Shalom, teach us how to prepare for a gift that compels us with justice to care. Our spirits are restless till sin and war cease."
So, by the third week of Advent, I knew that we would invoke the Shalom of Christ that compels us, with justice, to care! And I knew that we would sing the third verse... And so we did:
Lighting the third candle of Joy, we sang:
"Come, festively sing while awaiting the birth, join angels in dancing from heaven to earth.Wave banners of good news, lift high thankful praise."
- Esther Lee
Christ our light—our song—our peace and path to harmony,You speak to us in music. You make the dry land glad and the desert of our hearts, bloom.
So, by the third week of Advent, I knew that we would invoke the Shalom of Christ that compels us, with justice, to care! And I knew that we would sing the third verse... And so we did:
Lighting the third candle of Joy, we sang:
"Come, festively sing while awaiting the birth, join angels in dancing from heaven to earth.Wave banners of good news, lift high thankful praise."
- Esther Lee
Christ our light—our song—our peace and path to harmony,You speak to us in music. You make the dry land glad and the desert of our hearts, bloom.
12/15/07
Second Saturday in Advent - December 15, 2007
Welcome one another, therefore, just as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.
Romans 15:7
As Advent celebrations unfold we get ready to usher in a new season—the beginning of our liturgical calendar. It is a time of anticipation, as we celebrate Christmas and the birth of Jesus.
Our culture sometimes twists the meaning of Advent and Christmas. So we need to spend time preparing ourselves to welcome what the seasonis really about. Spend time searching the Scriptures in anticipation as we await Christmas Day. After all, without the birth of Jesus, I just believe that many of us would be lost and defeated…
With each commercial we see that advertises a new toy, the biggest sale of the season, or extended store hours, remember what the season is truly all about. The Scripture says "for unto us a child is born." Now, this is a reason to get each Christian excited, and something to share in aspirit of welcome and care for all.
- Trayce L. Stewart
Gracious God, with anticipation we turn to you,and welcome one another with your spirit of welcome.
[The Adoration of the Magi by Fra Angelico and Filippo Lippi]
12/14/07
Second Friday in Advent - December 14, 2007
With one voice glorify God!
Romans 15:6 Like the wise men, in the push of trying to prepare for Christmas; serving and observing, reflecting, and yes, racing—in postmodern times we also make haste in getting ready. Then we make haste in getting there, wherever the "there" is! Some of us travel, using the star of global positioning systems in cars and planes to bring us home. Then, with wrapping paper flying and gravy spilling on the nice tablecloth, our preparations and good works move at a pace. We need to slow down a notch. Prepare the way for the coming Christ. Take time today to prepare your heart. Sing! With others—with one voice from the many diversely intertwined! Pray. Take a seat. Help a friend. Put the tape down, turn off the Christmas movie, and stop the microwave. For a moment, move from twinkling lights, sparkling wrapping. Move toward a soft star in the sky. Open to, and await, Christ's leading. - Leslie Dobyns Be my guiding compass, and star, dear God. [The Magi, Tapestry]
12/13/07
Second Thursday in Advent - December 13, 2007
May the God of steadfastness and encouragement grant you to live in harmony with one another, in accordance with Christ Jesus. Romans 15:5 Christ was born in a manger for a reason. Yes, of course, we know that logically it was because there was no room in the inn. But, somehow I think the inn with no vacancies was part of God's intervention. Maybe in bringing Mary and Joseph to the manger, in placing the Christ Child in a hog's trough, God instructs us that before we can teach, preach, lead, we must have humility first to live in harmony with all. There was no room amongst the cacophony of the animals for Mary and Joseph to have pride. The one who redeems all creation born in a manger? But that is not God's way; God humbly comes to us as a poor baby born humbly, who continued to live so, owning few possessions as an adult, wandering from each place that would hear his word.
- James Semmelroth Darnell
May we serve each other humbly - and with a sense of place in communion with the spirit of the manger, in harmony with all. [Christ in a Manger, Fra Angelico]
- James Semmelroth Darnell
May we serve each other humbly - and with a sense of place in communion with the spirit of the manger, in harmony with all. [Christ in a Manger, Fra Angelico]
12/11/07
Second Wednesday in Advent - December 12, 2007
Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel, who alone does wondrous things.
Psalm 72:18 Each year during Advent, Christians around the world sing hymns, light candles, and share joy. There is a deep meaning in all of our lives thatwe are awakened to during this time of year.The sacred rituals and symbols hold much importance; and interaction with our fellow human beings provides an unspoken definition to the season, a quiet celebration of the glorious birth we are remembering. I made an accidental discovery of a quiet, wonderful secret of God. In the course of helping prepare my home church for Advent, I learned some in our congregation had been buying Christmas gifts for underprivileged children for the last several years. These folks, embodying the Spirit of Christ, were bringing joy into the lives of the church's youth without any recognition or anyone else in the church knowing about their generosity. They just wanted to bring joy into the lives of a few of God's children. The birth and life of Christ provides the soulful meaning of our Advent hymns and rituals—and the love we show to one another shares the wondrous heart of it all. - Beau Underwood Renewing God, we give you thanks for your wondrous gifts of love,mercy, and grace that we share to bring to life the heart of our hymns in every season. [Bagshaw, Open The Eyes of My Heart]
Second Tuesday in Advent - December 11, 2007
Defend the cause of the poor of the people.
Psalm 72:4
Has Christmas merely lost its meaning, or is it just evolving? I've often thought about that question as I've wandered the malls searching endlessly for that one gift, or for that one sibling I just can't leave behind. I think Christmas has evolved, which is a challenge for us. How do we remain faithful around this season when feelings ofjoy, comfort, and celebration are sometimes side by side with a kind of overdone materialism?
Has Jesus taken a backseat to Microsoft, stuffed animals, and bicycles? We need the CHRIST back in Christmas! Public talk of the religious side of Christmas is relegated to the extreme right-wing talk shows, saying that certain people have "Declared War on Christmas!"
I beg to differ. We have not yet tried to declare war, but rest assured when we do, we will do it with love and compassion for our fellow humans; remembering generous defense of the causes of the most vulnerable by giving of our time and money to homeless shelters, to provide aid to HIV-positive persons in Africa, or to the Red Cross or Salvation Army—locally and globally engaged to live as better Christians in the world and to help our society.
- Justin Lyman
Sustaining God, teach us paths of simplicity and caring, with capacities to create new and just expressions of ancient traditions as members in your church and world. [El Greco, The Miracle of Christ Healing the Blind]
Psalm 72:4
Has Christmas merely lost its meaning, or is it just evolving? I've often thought about that question as I've wandered the malls searching endlessly for that one gift, or for that one sibling I just can't leave behind. I think Christmas has evolved, which is a challenge for us. How do we remain faithful around this season when feelings ofjoy, comfort, and celebration are sometimes side by side with a kind of overdone materialism?
Has Jesus taken a backseat to Microsoft, stuffed animals, and bicycles? We need the CHRIST back in Christmas! Public talk of the religious side of Christmas is relegated to the extreme right-wing talk shows, saying that certain people have "Declared War on Christmas!"
I beg to differ. We have not yet tried to declare war, but rest assured when we do, we will do it with love and compassion for our fellow humans; remembering generous defense of the causes of the most vulnerable by giving of our time and money to homeless shelters, to provide aid to HIV-positive persons in Africa, or to the Red Cross or Salvation Army—locally and globally engaged to live as better Christians in the world and to help our society.
- Justin Lyman
Sustaining God, teach us paths of simplicity and caring, with capacities to create new and just expressions of ancient traditions as members in your church and world. [El Greco, The Miracle of Christ Healing the Blind]
12/10/07
Second Monday in Advent - December 10, 2007
May the people be judged with righteousness, your poor with justice.
Psalm 72:2
Scott Libbey was a saint of the church. That was what many said when Scott passed away. In the 1980s and early '90s Scott served as executive vice president of the United Church Board for World Ministries, a former instrumentality of the United Church of Christ.
I knew Scott only briefly as an intern for his church in Des Moines, Iowa. He served the church in a variety of capacities, and for this man, who was second only to the president of the UCC, no task was beneath him.
A few hours before he died, when his pastor, David Ruhe showed up at his bedside, Scott said, "How generous of you to visit me." That momentis definitive of his gracious spirit. Scott, though a strong leader, never threw his weight around, never acted like one who had a great deal of influence. He lived out the humility that the Christian life calls us to.
It is saints like the Rev. Scott Libbey whom young leaders may look to,for models of discipleship.
- James Semmelroth Darnell
God of justice for the poor; we give thanks for our mentors! Inspireus to be mentors in our turn, sharing your hope and vision. [Birth of Christ, Byzantine]
Scott Libbey was a saint of the church. That was what many said when Scott passed away. In the 1980s and early '90s Scott served as executive vice president of the United Church Board for World Ministries, a former instrumentality of the United Church of Christ.
I knew Scott only briefly as an intern for his church in Des Moines, Iowa. He served the church in a variety of capacities, and for this man, who was second only to the president of the UCC, no task was beneath him.
A few hours before he died, when his pastor, David Ruhe showed up at his bedside, Scott said, "How generous of you to visit me." That momentis definitive of his gracious spirit. Scott, though a strong leader, never threw his weight around, never acted like one who had a great deal of influence. He lived out the humility that the Christian life calls us to.
It is saints like the Rev. Scott Libbey whom young leaders may look to,for models of discipleship.
- James Semmelroth Darnell
God of justice for the poor; we give thanks for our mentors! Inspireus to be mentors in our turn, sharing your hope and vision. [Birth of Christ, Byzantine]
12/9/07
Second Week of Advent: Sunday, December 9, 2007
This is the one of whom the prophet Isaiah spoke when he said,"The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: 'Prepare the way of the Lord.'"
Matthew 3:3
As I write this Advent reflection on prophetic courage and a willingness to patiently labor for justice, it is a day of remembrance for the ways the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. prepared the way of the Lord.
Our goal as the children of God is not tolerance. Change is where we ought to be aiming. Transforming grace. Visionary courage!
Dr. King did not tolerate racism, nor accept it as the right way to live. So he set out to change the way society thought and acted; not by force, but through peaceful negotiations, protests, and more importantly, by knowledge. We can help to prepare God's way as we stop tolerating racism and classism and hate in every guise, and instead seek to change things with prophetic voice and profound grace. Then we might see the world able to claim the words of Dr. King: "free at last, free at last, thank God almighty we're free at last."
-Trayce Stewart
Living God, give us the courage to be voices that cry out with a dream. [St. John The Baptist, Coptic Icon]
Matthew 3:3
As I write this Advent reflection on prophetic courage and a willingness to patiently labor for justice, it is a day of remembrance for the ways the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. prepared the way of the Lord.
Our goal as the children of God is not tolerance. Change is where we ought to be aiming. Transforming grace. Visionary courage!
Dr. King did not tolerate racism, nor accept it as the right way to live. So he set out to change the way society thought and acted; not by force, but through peaceful negotiations, protests, and more importantly, by knowledge. We can help to prepare God's way as we stop tolerating racism and classism and hate in every guise, and instead seek to change things with prophetic voice and profound grace. Then we might see the world able to claim the words of Dr. King: "free at last, free at last, thank God almighty we're free at last."
-Trayce Stewart
Living God, give us the courage to be voices that cry out with a dream. [St. John The Baptist, Coptic Icon]
12/8/07
First Saturday in Advent -- December 8, 2007
For the night is far gone, the day is near. Let us then lay aside the works of darkness and put on the armor of light.
Romans 13:12, 13 Those folks who have ever loved someone or been loved know how imperfect human love can be. We proclaim our undying devotion, and claim that our love is unconditional. But the storms come and relationships get rocky. In those times we find that perhaps our love does have conditions. Powerful, beautiful, and healing as human love can be at times, in every relationship it falls short in some way eventually. And as much as humans have a great capacity for love, we also manage to hate. In our highly bureaucratized society we, like modern Pharisees, get trapped in legalism sometimes, leaving little room for mercy or love. Perhaps that is why we celebrate the birth of the babe in the manger. No, not because of bureaucracy, but because the armor of light is the still speaking, stronger voice of God guiding us. The first gift of Christmas, the Holy Child, was not just a gift of love—but the gift who teaches how to love. Christ, our example, has shown us how to love ourselves, others, and our God. The Light of Light now leads us in love, and guides us to make room for grace. God's love does not know the boundaries that our love knows; it does not differentiate between tax collectors and Pharisees. So Christ calls us to love lavishly, disregarding those categories people so often give each other. - James Semmelroth Darnell Christ, our example and light, teach us to love.
12/7/07
The First Friday in Advent - December 7, 2007
For the sake of the house of the Lord our God, I will seek your good.
Psalm 122:9
Advent comes at a time of year when the weather gets colder in the northern hemisphere. And in parts of the country, you start to see snow, ice, and fireplaces heating up houses. Although the temperaturecontinues to drop outside, the Advent season is about warming up tothe coming of the Christ Child—seeking, and sharing God's goodness.
Advent comes at a time of year when the weather gets colder in the northern hemisphere. And in parts of the country, you start to see snow, ice, and fireplaces heating up houses. Although the temperaturecontinues to drop outside, the Advent season is about warming up tothe coming of the Christ Child—seeking, and sharing God's goodness.
So remember to be a warm light during the Advent cold! Everyone is stressed and in a hurry so that they can buy gifts for their friends andfamily. Try doing the unexpected by letting someone get in front of you in line, help them carry their gifts, wrap presents for people who have a difficult time wrapping presents, and clear your neighbor's driveway of ice so that they can easily back out of their driveway, or some other nice gesture. This is the calling to Christians during this season: seek and give God's goodness. This Advent try to prepare the way for God by focusing on the way God surprises. It is God who chose to come to God's people through an innocent baby in a manger. It is the unexpected gift that keeps on giving. So make the heart of your Advent season one of giving unexpected gifts—share smiles with strangers, hugs with friends, and Christ's love with all.
- Jon Hall
God of bright care and warm hearth, inspire us to seek your goodwith practices of kindness and surprise. [Jesus's Birth, Rembrandt]
12/6/07
First Thursday in Advent - December 6, 2007
For the sake of my relatives and friends, I will sing "Peace be within you."
Psalm 122:8 It is sometimes easy to lose hope as a child of God. Everywhere we turn the world seems to be falling apart, despite our best efforts to be the disciples that Jesus taught us to be. Funding problems challenge our schools, government officials struggle with polarized views, wars and violence seem to have no end, and the list continues with natural disasters of all kinds and countless tragedies.
Psalm 122:8 It is sometimes easy to lose hope as a child of God. Everywhere we turn the world seems to be falling apart, despite our best efforts to be the disciples that Jesus taught us to be. Funding problems challenge our schools, government officials struggle with polarized views, wars and violence seem to have no end, and the list continues with natural disasters of all kinds and countless tragedies.
How can we sing "Peace be within you" to encourage our friends, and ourselves?
Meditate on this: Advent is a time of encouragement. Even though we live in the midst of difficult times, as did the prophets of old, the deep peace of the running waves flows to us as we remember where we should place our hope and why.
We can sing of the deep peace of the running waves. Our trust in God has strong grounds. Over the years, God's loving careh as proven true in every situation. God has promised never to leave us, and is with us in suffering and rejoicing. Peace be within you! For even on rainy days, hope does not disappoint us.
- Trayce Stewart
Loving God, when we are worried, help us remember that you arefaithful; and strengthen us to be the peace-sharing, bold, and hopeful people you have called us to be.
Meditate on this: Advent is a time of encouragement. Even though we live in the midst of difficult times, as did the prophets of old, the deep peace of the running waves flows to us as we remember where we should place our hope and why.
We can sing of the deep peace of the running waves. Our trust in God has strong grounds. Over the years, God's loving careh as proven true in every situation. God has promised never to leave us, and is with us in suffering and rejoicing. Peace be within you! For even on rainy days, hope does not disappoint us.
- Trayce Stewart
Loving God, when we are worried, help us remember that you arefaithful; and strengthen us to be the peace-sharing, bold, and hopeful people you have called us to be.
12/5/07
First Wednesday in Advent - December 5, 2007
Peace be within your walls…
Psalm 122:7
I must confess that while I know the Christmas season begins afterThanksgiving, this was not from my knowledge of the liturgi calcalendar. Instead, the season began for me each year seeing festived is plays of Santa Claus through the windows of the shopping center, watching my neighborhood slowly become illuminated with green andred Christmas lights, and noting that Home Depot was now starting to sell Christmas trees. If you had asked me a few months ago what I thought Advent meant, unfortunately, I probably wouldn't have been able to tell you. In the church of my youth, I don't remember learning about Advent as a special time of waiting.
So I was in for a new experience discovering Advent through a beautiful liturgy filled with jubilant music and the lighting of Advent candles.The candles represent Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love—four symphonies of the heart that I feel are, by their nature, an essential message of the Christmas season.
In my church, as we lit our first candle that was sitting on the pulpit, we sang the first verse of the hymn "One Candle is Lit," from the Chalice Hymnal. The first verse goes like this: "Come surely, Lord Jesus, as dawn follows night, our hearts long to greet you, as roses, the light. Salvation,draw near us, our vision engage." The singing drew peace within ourwalls, and ushered in… Advent.
-Esther Lee
God of Light, turn our meditations to the coming of your presencewith us, inscribing Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love on our hearts.
I must confess that while I know the Christmas season begins afterThanksgiving, this was not from my knowledge of the liturgi calcalendar. Instead, the season began for me each year seeing festived is plays of Santa Claus through the windows of the shopping center, watching my neighborhood slowly become illuminated with green andred Christmas lights, and noting that Home Depot was now starting to sell Christmas trees. If you had asked me a few months ago what I thought Advent meant, unfortunately, I probably wouldn't have been able to tell you. In the church of my youth, I don't remember learning about Advent as a special time of waiting.
So I was in for a new experience discovering Advent through a beautiful liturgy filled with jubilant music and the lighting of Advent candles.The candles represent Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love—four symphonies of the heart that I feel are, by their nature, an essential message of the Christmas season.
In my church, as we lit our first candle that was sitting on the pulpit, we sang the first verse of the hymn "One Candle is Lit," from the Chalice Hymnal. The first verse goes like this: "Come surely, Lord Jesus, as dawn follows night, our hearts long to greet you, as roses, the light. Salvation,draw near us, our vision engage." The singing drew peace within ourwalls, and ushered in… Advent.
-Esther Lee
God of Light, turn our meditations to the coming of your presencewith us, inscribing Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love on our hearts.
12/4/07
First Tuesday in Advent - December 4
Pray for the peace...
Psalm 122:6
My best friend's house always has the first Christmas tree in my hometown.Their tree goes up long before the Thanksgiving turkey is carved. Decked out with ornaments, the tree stands in their front window proclaiming the arrival of the Christmas season. Many would question the need to put out the tree so early, but there is something about seeingthat tree each year that brings refreshing peace. The Advent seasonusually falls during a stressful time in our lives. Family gatherings demand one wear a constant smile; a long list of people to buy gifts for requires money I often do not have; and other commitments in my life do not relax during this time of year. Yet,when I see my friend's tree standing in the window, it reminds me of the peace that comes with this time of year. As I thought about this, I thought of the parallel between the way I view that tree and the way those from so long ago viewed the birth of Jesus Christ. The birth of Christ was an oasis of quiet hope that brought great joy into a world of suffering and distress. Those who had lost their motivation to go forward, were given a new reason to find the passion for life. Each year, seeing the first Christmas tree is a reminder of that quiet hope. Noticing my friend's tree in the window reminds me to dig out my Christmas CDs, to start thinking about the obligations that come with the season, and brings a smile to my face because we are celebrating thebirth of the One who radically changed this world. The Christmas tree signals a presence of peace. - Beau Underwood In this Advent season, may we marvel at the beauty of creation, in our lives, and in the people around us. Let us renew our hearts and our passion to serve, going forth humbly and embodying your Spirit.
10/4/07
Practicing Spirituality with Children: E-Courses by Frederic and Mary Ann Brussat
Children are in touch with a life-enhancing spirituality. They live in the present moment and are alive to the energy of wonder. You've noticed this if you are a parent, a grandparent, or a good friend of a boy or girl. And even if you aren't in a close relationship with a child, you probably remember the discoveries of your own childhood. And each of us has an inner child who occasionally comes out to play. We all have been given a mission to be spiritual companions to our children, grandchildren, and young friends. There are many blessings to be shared across the generations. We also can do more to respect and cherish children's spirituality. How do they express it? Through creativity, mystical experiences, questions, goodness, free spirit, and much more. "Practicing Spirituality with Children" is a 40-part course deliverd by email. Each email includes a short passage we've found in a book about children's spirituality, or spiritual parenting, or a children's book with a spiritual message. We've mixed it up and included a few passages just for your inner child. Following the quote is a practice suggestion, something you can do with children or in honor of those you've known, including yourself. During this unique e-course, we explore the seeds of the sacred in a child's everyday life; the rewards of play, humor, and joy; the pleasures of finding meaning; and the surprising rewards of attention and wonder. Being a supportive spiritual companion to a child entails setting aside our agendas; being empathetic listeners; modeling love, compassion, forgiveness, and kindness; trying not to be too controlling or protective; and being open to the mysterious movements of the Divine. And, too, we must be willing to let children be our spiritual teachers. As the late Gerald May put it, "We must trust that God's activity in these small lives is not dependent on our interventions. God indeed has been present with these little ones all along, and with just a little encouragement, the children will gladly share that presence with us." The cost of this course is only $15.00.
8/15/07
Rhythm | Preview
What does it mean to have a relationship with God? What does it look like? For a lot of us it’s a hard thing to fully understand. If God is an infinite spirit with no shape or form, how can we possibly relate to that? And what about Jesus? He said he came to give everyone life in its fullest. He came to show us how to live. Maybe it’s through trusting Jesus and living the kind of life he taught us to live – a life of truth, love, justice, compassion, forgiveness, and sacrifice – that we have a relationship with God. Maybe the way we live every day, every single choice we make, determines how in tune with God we are.
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