Re-Devotional: July 14-20 Renew

July 14^th

Renew

When I was about 12 I had a fascination with names. I wanted to know meanings and origins, popularity  and rank over the last few years. When I got my first bible I thought it was a good idea to try and highlight all the names in the Old Testament...let me tell you the genealogies in genesis cause the entire page to get highlighted. Through my highlighting  I stumbled across the story of Abram and Sarai

Their renaming to Abraham and Sarah was representative of new beginnings and a new covenant. God had a purpose for them for future generations and the names signified this. While we may not change our names when we enter into a new relationship of faith our souls are changed.

May we each experience change that feels like our names have been changed.

Holy one help us to renew our lives so we are new in you. Amen

July 15^th

Renew

Last night I watched the rain come down. It would pour and you couldn't see down the block, and then it would let up and you had to look so close to see the drops. As I watched I saw leaves and garbage cans and other random things float down the street, and I realized how different everything would look in the morning.

In my life I like to believe there are rainstorms that clear out the unwanted people and things and allow for newness. These rainstorms aren't always terrible things but they are situations that allow for revelation  and change. 

May there be rainstorms in your life that lead to newness.

Lord may we welcome change and new things whenever they come our way. Amen

July 16^th

Renew

"Finish each day and be done with it. You have done what you could. Some blunders and absurdities have crept in; forget them as soon as you can. Tomorrow is a new day. You shall begin it serenely and with too high a spirit to be encumbered with your old nonsense."

-Emerson

The best thing about a new day is the fact that you have a clean slate. Sometimes we abuse "tomorrow", pushing everything there with no regard in doing the thing we put there. But tomorrow is here!

Today I challenge you to live to your fullest. You are the smartest, best, most wonderful person right this moment. We are able to begin again every day leaving our fears, doubts and failures behind, ready to start again as a wiser person.

May you embrace today as a day of new beginnings.

Revitalizing God stir in me new things that let me let go of the old. Amen 

July 17^th

Renew

Recently most of the building smells like paint and sawdust on a daily basis. There are so many awesome changes happening this summer at PAUMC and its amazing to see there evolution. To see the removal of a wall, new flooring, the construction of our new elevator, I am in awe of the difference being made!

So many of the changes are necessities, adjusting to the changes of our growing congregation and new needs with programming. This renewal of our physical building is a reminder to me that time to time we all need renewal. This renewal can be physical, emotional and physical.

For me I clean when life feels unbalanced. I will deep scrub the oven, file and organize loose paperwork, vacuum every rug and couch-do the most intense cleaning I can. For me I feel the most renewed and rejuvenated when I do this. It makes me feel ready, able to take on anything.

We need to do things that make our souls and space around us feel nurturing, and encourage us to do the best we can.

Lord may we make shifts to renew ourselves, creating new goals for a better life. Amen

July 18^th

Renew

I love to go vintage clothes shopping. There's something awesome about finding something for a fraction of what it originally cost or finding something perfect to reinvent. When I was at college there were two thrift shops in town that sold vintage clothing. A lot of the stuff was higher end and I loved going in during sales. One day I struck a conversation with the woman behind the counter of my favorite of the shops. I found out she was one of the co-owners. She was older, probably in her 50s, and I asked her why she decided to open this shop. She told me that she had started out working in corporate gigs, and while the money was good she didn't feel fulfilled, rather she was feeling drained.

A friend and her decided they wanted to open a store, they had no small business experience but had a desire to make it work and opened the business with a little faith. They had been open for almost 10years at this point. I asked her how she managed to maintain such high quality merchandise. She said that every week she would go through donations, and they also had a high standard of what could be donated. She told me that their biggest reason for success was that she and her co-owner weren't unwilling to get their hands dirty and be involved in even the smallest process.

I try to think about this little bit of wisdom when I get nervous or scared about new adventures. Renewing moments in life means we begun again.

May we have the courage to begin again.

Lord let me be encouraged and have courage to push forward, trying new things and creating new adventures. Amen.

  

July 19^th

Renew

The office I share at PAUMC is pretty full with paperwork, toys, art supplies and other random things. One of the most common in the random category is toilet paper rolls. We have a decent stockpile that we continually add to. The kids have made various crafts with these rolls and I love seeing the creative things they turn into.

This transformation reminds me how the ordinary can be repurposed to extraordinary. God has shown us time and time again how this happens. It gives me encouragement that I can be used for amazing things. I need to be willing to try new experiences, break the mold and not get stuck in the norm. Extraordinary experiences help us to become renewed in purpose and mission.

Transformative God, help me change the ordinary into extraordinary. Amen 

July 20^th

Renew

 Recently I was talking to someone about college and they shared with me an article on how gender neutral restrooms is becoming norm on many campuses. When I was an undergrad I lived in communities for 2 years where we had this in our bathrooms. It was interesting sharing a bathroom space with 20 men and women. There were issues of not putting toilet seats down, hair being left in the shower and amount time being spent to get ready in the actual bathroom. The whole experience taught me (among other things) that gender doesn't make you cleaner or messier, worse or better.

Since then I keep this experience in my mind. I try to not make generalizations about gender. I have male friends that are cleaner than female friends and female friends who know more about sports than their male counterparts. When I was researching marriage vows a while ago I was disgusted with how many of the vows were gendered in those labeled as "Christian ceremonies". They weren't about being equally yoked but about giving into the authority of the male counterpart since they have been tasked with leading the household (yuck).

Like the experience with gender neutral bathrooms, and finding neutral gender vows I am reminded how time over time we are called to question these pre established systems of control. It is our job to continually question, challenge and argue against the systems being used to subject those socially seen as inferior. I hope that I can provide a place of welcome to all, regardless of gender, race and sexual orientation. I hope that I continue to stand for equality for all. I hope I can live out Jesus's command to love one another.

May we each continually challenge systems of oppression that control our interactions and reactions.

Holy one may I take actions to live out your kindom in this world through my actions and reactions. Amen

Re-Devotional: July 7-13 Refocus

July 7^th

Refocus

Yesterday I went to my home church for the 8am service. As always I was struck by the beauty of the sanctuary as the sun begins to fill the sky, the height of the ceilings, and the welcoming presence of those in attendance. Yet I was also not completely there mentally... As we waited for the service to start I started mentally running the grocery list that I needed to shop for after the service, I was thinking about the thank you card's I had to finish when I got home, and I started to plan how my day off would go as I tried to balance everything that "needs" to be done.

I sung the hymns, read the prayers, passed the peace, listened to the scriptures but I wasn't really worshiping, I was just at a worship service.

"Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." Matthew 11:28-30

Then the pastor reread these verses. She said that rest does not mean being lazy, but it means we are partnering with Jesus. The journey we take will continue to have its ups and downs but it will be easier to bear when we yoke ourselves to Christ, connecting to what feeds our soul. 

So today, on my day off, I'm going to do what feeds my soul, what causes me to come to Christ. I may read a book, or bake something crazy, or just spend some time talking to God. The laundry will be there, the cat hair will remain, the dishes may stay clean in the dishwasher...I on the other hand will be going back to my roots, reassessing my priorities, and making time for the One who walks beside me.

May we all make time amidst our hectic lives to refocus where we put our energies too.

Lord, let us not lose sight of you in the busyness of the day-to-day. May we earnestly seek you and make time to commune with you. Amen 

July 8^th

Refocus

When I was in first grade we had to take vision and hearing tests during our gym period. While the hearing test went fine we found out that I had problems reading things close up and needed glasses. Luckily I only needed glasses to read and not for everyday use. When we went to the eye doctor he did some tests and talked to my parents and I. Then he told us he was prescribing me bifocals because it would be easier to train my eyes to look through the different lenses and I would be more likely to use the glasses. It would be easier to just give me regular glasses instead of a specialty lenses but it would be better to have the bifocals for present and future use.

And this is kinda like our faith journey. It's easy to talk to those sitting next to us in the pew and harder to be talk to stranger. Easier to attend worship weekly and harder to get involved with a small group or ministry. Yet to talk to that stranger, join that small group, pushing outside of what is comfortable our faith becomes an integral part of daily living; creating better relationships with others, God and self.

What are the things you need to refocus?

Holy one shift our vision so we can see you more clearly in this world. Amen

July 9^th

Refocus

Recently I stumbled across some old videos from my college choir days. Although not so long ago it was amazing to see how much I’ve changed and reminisce on amazing memories of tours, concerts and unlikely friendships. I was reminded how much I miss choir and the fellowship that came with it. I was also reminded how much I miss singing. There was a point in my life that when I wasn’t in class or working I was at rehearsal.

As I thought more about this gap I was feeling I realized that what I missed most was the fellowship. I missed staying up late with choir friends in dorm rooms, random midnight diner adventures, planning study dates at the library. This community was so important to my development and growth as an individual and leader. So today I’m making a few calls, sending a few facebook messages and shooting out some emails to those who made and make up the community that surrounds me. I plan on being more intentional with these friendships because they are some of the best treasures I have.

Lord, may I treasure those around me and the adventures we have. May I try to be present and live in the moment. Amen   

July 10^th

Refocus

Yesterday was crazy, or at least felt as much. Between deliveries, visits and day-to-day I walked up and down the stairs at least 8 times. This elevator construction has been a test on my leg muscles, stamina and general breathing. It was a bit frustrating that I had to keep leaving my desk for other things not in my plans. But about the fifth time coming up I realized I wasn't slowing down as much, my breathing was a little easier and the flights seemed to appear faster.

As a christian there are times I've gotten frustrated during worship, in prayer and in fellowship. These frustrations have happened when I didn't feel like God was listening, when blessings seemed to pass me, and when I didn't feel God's presence. Yet in each instance I realized it wasn't because there was a DON'T from God but a DON'T from me. I needed to refocus how I looked at the situation to see God's hand in it.

May we not be discouraged but hold fast to the fact that God is always there.

Ever-present God help me to shift my view to see you in every aspect and situation. Amen.

July 11^th

Refocus

A friend of mine posted on twitter "Jesus' invitation is "follow me." No time for details, or getting life together. Just go. Life on the edge." It got me thinking about what a life on the edge should, or does, look like. As I thought about it I realized for many of us that's how we can describe living in NYC.

There's a lot of uncertainty, we don't know how long we will be here or sometimes where our next lease will take us but we seem to take it all in stride. Its what shapes as New Yorkers-transplants or home-grown. There is a sense of trust you have, with yourself and the universe, that it will all work out in the end.

As people of faith that's the promise we have-that it will all work out. New places means new adventures and opportunities for growth. Life on the edge challenges us to be flexible, patient, ready.

I challenge you to do something out of your norm in the next week!

Lord-may I live on the edge for you. Amen

 

July 12^th

Refocus

It's amazing what self care does for mental health. I have always been a person who gives my all to everything I did and do. But giving my all meant I got emotionally invested in things and situations that weren't really important, I needed to learn to separate myself for my own health.

My mom is such an inspiration for me. While she's always been amazing, in the last five years I have been awed by how she balanced looking out for self while taking care of others. One of the things my mom committed to was doing yoga at least 4 days a week. Her commitment to take time for herself, to reset and meditate have caused her to take things at work, church and home in stride. She seems more relaxed and makes meaningful experiences out of everything. Her example challenges me to live fully.

I have been blessed these past few months to try new things, to be surrounded by people who are genuine, to have coworkers who encourage personal development and time for self, and to feel loved. I couldn't say that this adventure would be happening a year ago but I'm so glad I let go of unhealthy situations to allow for a change.

May we all be encouraged to shift how we take care of self-body, mind and soul.

Loving God help each of us are make self a priority, doing something that feeds the soul. Amen

July 13^th

Refocus

Bring a man a fish and he will be fed for a day. Teach a man to fish and he will be fed for a lifetime.

-anon.

As I've been meditating this week on this topic of "Refocus" I've been thinking about what it means long term. I've realized by refocusing my efforts, priorities, and relationships I am also creating a different kind of legacy for those who I mentor, cousins, and others. This legacy is one of intentional living.

Last week a member of my home church died. He was 77 and had been suffering with an illness for 2 months prior. I had worked with this man on church cleanup days and had heard about his exploits in the army and working for the local school system, he always had a story. Now I was not raised in my home church, I've only been involved for the last 2-3 years. My fiance and his family were raised there though and this man was a grandfather of sorts to my fiance and his siblings. They have shared numerous stories of advice he has given, funny moments at church and lots of memories.

As we went to the viewing it was amazing to see the amount of people crammed into this tiny room, but what was more amazing was the amount of laughter. Everyone had a funny story or memory to share and someone would always agree with what was being said. Yes people were hurting but we all knew that he had lived his life to the fullest, giving his all and teaching what he could to anyone who would listen.

It's hard to know if your life has a legacy while you are still here. But I'm trying to live a life as the above quote says; teaching not doing. I'm learning to let go of my need to be in control. I am learning to trust that the only way someone will learn is if they do it themselves. I am changing, continually refocusing to be a better me.

May you live your life fully and with intention, creating meaningful moments for all.

Holy One help us to let go of a need for control and live a life of legacy. Amen

What Does Your Garden Grow?-Sermon 7/13/14

What Does Your Garden Grow?

Fifth Sunday after Pentecost

July 13, 2014

Psalm 119:105-112

Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23

It’s hard to have a garden in New York City. Space, conditions, and time are some of the factors that impact the effectiveness of growing things. In the last 7 years or so there has been a national boom in urban gardening. Rooftops, window boxes, even fenced up areas around trees on the curb have been transformed to grow flowers, fruits and vegetables. New gardening methods have gained popularity, Pinterest is full of small garden ideas, and community gardens are becoming norm in many neighborhoods.

When I was growing up we had a 12-foot raised bed garden at church. The United Methodist Women had been inspired to create and maintain a garden, and teach others how to keep it going. The trustees found the funds and provided the labor. A local hardware store provided the beams and liner for a reduced cost. The Botanical Gardens provided free mulch, soil and seeds. After a few months of planning the side yard had this beautiful raised bed ready to be planted. A few of the United Methodist Women began to plan what would be planted with the seeds we had and then tried to figure how they could make it sustainable. Thus the Saturday Gardening Program was born.

Every Saturday a group of kids from the church and neighborhood gathered in the basement to watch videos about gardening, look through books, make notes in self-decorated notebooks, plant, weed and prune whatever had grown. During these Saturdays we learned about planting in different types of temperatures, the effectiveness of greenhouses, good and bad bugs, and different gardening terms. We were empowered to ask questions, get messy and be assertive. For a group of kids in Brooklyn this was a big deal, and a big adventure.

After a few months of all of this we finally got our first harvest. There is nothing more magical than watching a group of kids eating a green bean fresh off the stem. We were allowed to take some of it home and the rest was sold during coffee hour the next day. There was never a goal for profit, just to share the bounty with all those around. The program lasted about 2 years and the garden itself still produced for another 5 years or so. I don’t know the state of it now but I do still hold the memories and values taught in my heart.

One of the lessons that has always stuck with me was the different types of gardens that use different soils. There have been pamphlets and books written, workshops given and shows created around these various tips. Some plants grow best outside, some can grow wild, some need to be perfectly spaced and some can flourish in artificial conditions. The key is knowing what you’re going to plant because that affects how you prepare the soil.

In our Matthew passage Jesus shares with the disciples the Parable of the Sower. Jesus’ use of parables is a reminder that sometimes we need to tell a story to explain the facts. The use of parables was never to answer questions, for the disciples or for us. Rather they are to provoke us to question and create different thinking.

 In this parable we are told about a sower, a gardener, who was planting some seed. Now as we see there was every intention to plant those seeds well. He had probably prepped the soil, prepared his rows for planting, and waited for a nice day during the right season to begin. Yet we see that as he was sowing some of these seeds fell elsewhere. They fell on the path, on rocky soil and among thorns. None of these seeds could take root and flourish. They died because they weren’t planted correctly. The seeds are the Word of God that take root in our souls and help us blossom. For these seeds they wouldn't thrive without taking root. As we read this passage we can gather that the sower didn’t intentionally plant these seed in hard to grow places rather they fell out as he went.

As Jesus told the disciples each different condition is representative of those around us. Those who don’t understand the word, those who have no root in their faith, and those who let the world hold more value than God. We can all be those people, our faith may waver and our understanding may be limited BUT we are also challenged to continually take action to make a foundation in God and the word. By striving for better understanding and deeper faith we push our roots deeper into the ground, gaining strength. There are certain things that are needed to take root: tilled soil, water, sunshine and room to breathe. These things are needed for plants but for us too.

Without Tilled Soil it becomes difficult for the seed to take root. A seed is not strong enough to push its roots into hard soil or rock.  If the soil has been turned and cared for the seed can easily make a home there. I used to hate tilling the soil, it’s messy. You sit there combing through each bit, removing rocks and twigs, breaking up hard compacted pieces and making sure that there are no weeds. While sitting there you almost feel like there is no point. To till the soil takes work, and lots of it. But by tilling the soil you are committing to the garden, you are preparing the ground the best you can in preparation of the seed and bounty to follow. In our lives how are we shifting our lives to be able to receive God and the Word? What does our soil look like?

Water is needed by all of us. As Christians we are told that Jesus is the living water, ever pouring into us so we never go thirsty. For plants water can make all the difference. Water helps activate processes in the seed to encourage growth; good watering can save a dying plant. But there is a balance to be found. The soil cannot be too wet, since over saturation can drown the seed. In the same way the word can easily be watered down if we don't take time to reflect on a service or message and soak in the understanding. By planning out your personal watering-going to service, joining a small group, doing personal or group bible study you are allowing yourself to be watered regularly to keep hydrated.

We need to be fed. For plants Sunshine, and the process of photosynthesis converts light energy into chemical energy. This process allows for a slow release of energy to feed the plant and allow it to reach its full potential. In the parable we see a seed scorched by the sun. This plant had no protection and was quickly ruined. Any good gardener will tell you to look at where the light falls to determine where you grow your garden. Direct sunlight all the time will quickly make good plants die. The best areas are where sunshine and shade are present. This change in light allows the plant to perform its process to allow for energy to slowly be released. As Christians we need to take time to meditate and reflect on the word for self. This may mean journaling, following a daily devotional that has a study portion, meditating, doing further research on a topic raised or following a challenged poised by the pastor. We need to be actively engaged in the process, reflecting on what was shared so we can share the message with others.

In the parable we see that the seed in the thorns began to grow but couldn’t flourish because there was no Room to Breathe. This is the story for many of us. It doesn't always mean that we make idols of other things but rather we allow other things to take precedence before God and our relationship with. In our young adult gatherings we have talked many times about cellphones and how many of us have work phones or work emails on personal phones. We have talked about how we try to balance the fast paced nature of many of our professions and unplugging from them for self-preservation. We have come to an unofficial understanding that when we go to brunch or somewhere for an event there are no phones out, although emergencies and deadlines are exceptions. It may only be an hour or two that phones are left in pockets or bags but it allows for us to focus on the immediate, creating friendships and memories.

Every time we have a new understanding, deepen our faith or trust in the promises of God our garden grows. This garden while built of our personal seeds is also a reflection of us to others. When those who are unsure or fearful see this they are encouraged to plant seeds for themselves. So I ask you what is in your garden? What traits, habits and understandings are you sharing with others?

In my garden I’m trying to grow kindness, cultivate hospitality, encourage patience, graft love for self and other, and prune honesty. It is a daily adventure to nurture this garden and it becomes easier when others grow similar things. I want to be able to share tips on how to have patience, how to be kind, how to love self. I want these conversations to be able to produce beautiful blooms in my life and the lives of others. I want my garden to not just bloom but explode with faith and understanding of God. It will take time but the harvest is going to be amazing.

It starts with a seed-are you ready to plant and help it grow?

Re-Devotionals: July 1-6, Refresh

I started a July daily email devotional for our young adult ministry at PAUMC. 

I will be posting them by theme on a weekly basis.

July 1st

Refresh

The beauty of a new month is that we get to start at 1 again. Even though its just a date on the calendar sometimes seeing it is enough to jump start promises to myself and shift my energies to new things. For me this July is a refresh for self. After almost 3 years at a job where my spirit was drained and I was not myself I am so excited to not have to continue there and to start a new chapter at PAUMC. This is a big change for me but one that I needed; one that is reaffirming purpose and desires that have long been dormant.

As we begin this new month I encourage you to think about places in your life that need to be refreshed. It may be something as serious as a job change or a geographic move, or maybe something as personal as finding a yoga studio that makes you feel welcomed on the first visit.

May this new month bring new adventures and new beginnings.

Holy one we look to you for a refresh. Cleanse the things that are hurtful and harmful and lead us to ways of newness where we show your love in this world. Amen.

July 2^nd

Refresh

I do not cease to give thanks for you as I remember you in my prayers. 

Ephesians 1:16

There was a time I would laugh at the above verse, why would anyone pray for me? There was a point in college where I got so bitter with God about one situation after the next that I rejected not only God but the faith of others.  I guess that my mother sensed this because it was about this time she started to end our phone calls with “I love you, God bless you.” These simple words stuck with me. Years later I am grateful for her love and her honesty because in my darkest moments I would hear her voice saying those words. Its hard to hear God, feel God and know the wonderfulness of the Holy One when life sucks.

I am grateful that I was (and am) reminded that I am loved and I am special and someone is thankful for me. I am thankful for all of you, your candor and encouragement, your loving spirits and your silliness. It is a joy to be in fellowship with you and I do remember you in my prayers.

Loving God help me to remember that I am a beloved child and that I am special. Help me to hold on to you in the darkest days. Surround me with your love and care. Amen

July 3^rd

Refresh

God, Redeemer of Israel, The Holy of Israel, says to the despised one, kicked around by the nations, slave labor to the ruling class: “Kings will see, get to their feet—the princes, too— and then fall on their faces in homage Because of God, who has faithfully kept his word, The Holy of Israel, who has chosen you.”

Isaiah 49:7 (The Message)

Sometimes it is so hard to see the plan God has. We have all these plans, wishes and dreams for our lives, our careers, our relationships. Yet I’ve come to realize faithfulness makes all the difference. In the prior verses in the Isaiah passage the prophet is telling us about how wholehearted trust in God led to God doing amazing things for not only the prophet but for future generations. God is a God of promise- we see it in our bible with Abram & Sarai, Noah, Jonah, Joshua, Esther, Paul.

But its hard for us to feel these promises, to see these wonderful things planned for us. Trust is hard. For me it helps to remember the many facets of God; Jehovah Jireh- my provider, Jehovah Rapha -the Lord who heals, Immanuel-God with us, Elohim-the all powerful one. God has many names to meet me in my need, my humanness.

I encourage you to look at some of these names of God and to remember God is there in everything you do and are doing. I encourage you to pray to the name of God that speaks to you right now in whatever situation you are going through.

Mighty God, we come to you in our need searching for guidance and direction. Lead me in your ways, for your glory. Amen.

July 4^th

Refresh

An extended friend of mine (you know friend of a friend) does amazing liturgical elements and worship design. She’s so amazing that she designs, leads, and teaches worship workshops around the country and has helped lead worship at the last two general conferences (the quadrennial gathering of the global UMC). I got to meet her in 2008 and was blown away by the way she gave her all in worship (praising and leading). My interaction with her definitely influenced how I lead. All of this to say I am sharing part of the communion liturgy she wrote for this upcoming communion Sunday following July 4^th.

Holy are you and blessed is your son, Jesus. To those who were imprisoned by status, law, illness, poverty, gender, age, disease, he said, “your belief has set you free. You are a child of God.” He invited disciples, friends and strangers alike to his tables. He proclaimed God’s grace to all with whom he broke bread. He proclaimed God’s love to all with whom he shared the cup. And he told us to remember: freedom has come, and freedom is coming.

-Dr. Marcia McFee

Let us remember today, this independence day, to celebrate not only the nationalism felt by this day but the freedom we are offered by Jesus at the welcome table. May you have filling fellowship with friends and strangers gathered around the (picnic) table.

Liberating God help us to loose what binds us so we can embrace the freedom that is ours through Christ. In the name of the holy one. AMEN

July 5^th

Refresh

When I started looking for inspiration for this week’s theme, “Refresh”, I stumbled on a number of websites and brands promoting personal health, vacation spots, and products for purchase. One of the sites was for a water filter and their slogan read, “Pour out something good”. How appropriate is this statement for us and people on this earth! We need to pour out from ourselves into others; sharing the light and love of God through thought, word and deed. But with this pouring we also need to be filled with something.

There was a picture a friend had hanging in their room of a hand pouring water from a pitcher into another pitcher, and that pitcher overflowed into a bowl. I like to think that God is that hand pouring into us through our fellowship, time in worship and personal time with God. I like to think we are that second pitcher, so filled that we overflow into others! Unfortunately we don’t always take the time to fill our pitcher, and we run this risk of being empty.

On this Saturday I ask you to think about the things that cause your pitcher to fill. Is it time with a friend? time alone? going for a run or to a fitness class? painting a picture? writing a poem? Well DO IT! Nothings stopping you but yourself so go for it!

Lord, help me do the things that help me get closer to you and allow me to share your greatness with others. Let me be a vessel. Amen

July 6^th

Refresh

Communion Sunday has always had a special place in my heart. There's something so beautiful about everyone being invited to the table. Over the last few years I've seen more churches embrace the welcoming nature of communion-from providing wine & grape juice, to  having rice crackers or another gluten free alternative available. But I've also learned how personal communion is. 

I love being able to welcome people to this meal; whether they are first time visitors, long time members, new Christians, or unsure religiously. The welcome is for all and allows for a new start every time.

 

"Welcome, welcome to this place. You're invited to come and know Gods grace. All are welcome, the love of God to share. Yes, all of us are welcome here, all are welcome in this place." -Mark Miller

I hope you find a place today to join in a communion table of sorts, to give fear and worry to God and embrace the radical hospitality of the Holy One. May you be refreshed in mind, body & soul.

 

Lord we thank you for new beginnings, opportunities and reminders of your love and care. Help me to embrace your hospitable welcome. Amen