And now for the final installment of our Saving Grace process. We discerned our values as a congregation. We created a Mission Statement. Finally, we met to craft a Vision Statement. This Vision Statement wraps up our Values and Mission and points us towards our future as a church and as God's people. The statement is this:
Grace United Methodist Church will joyfully serve the community by welcoming all people into the ever widening Circle of God's Love.
In choosing this statement, we declare that we are followers of the Christ, who welcomed everyone and spent much of his time with the "outcasts" of his time. This means that everyone who comes through our doors, no matter how they are dressed, what race they were born to, what lifestyle they choose or how they might be disabled, will be welcomed into our congregation.
Are we now finished with saving our precious church? Far from it! The easy part is complete and now we prepare ourselves to be God's Heart and Hands in our community, our nation and our world. With hard work, patience, and God's blessings and help, we can make it happen.
Tuesday, July 31, 2012
OUR MISSION AS GRACE CHURCH
OK, we know what our core values are. (See the March posting.) The next step is crafting a Mission Statement. This statement describes how we put our values into action. Again, members of the congregation met to pray, think, listen, discuss and create the following statement:
We are a Christ-Centered congregation, serving our community by:
What's next? Stay tuned for our Vision Statement.
We are a Christ-Centered congregation, serving our community by:
- Celebrating God's presence
- Growing in our knowledge and understanding of the Living Word
- Loving all with the Heart of Christ
What's next? Stay tuned for our Vision Statement.
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
More About Saving Grace!
Recently, members of our congregation met to prayerfully determine the CORE VALUES of our church. Core values are statements about who we are and what is of utmost importantance to us as a gathered people. Below you will find list of those values along with a short statement explaining what each means for our community.
We are a CHRIST-CENTERED People. We base our worship, educational programs and other activities on the life and example of Jesus as written in the Scriptures.
We value HOSPITALITY. We are a warm and welcoming congregation.
We are a COMPASSIONATE People. We care deeply about all people and are moved to action by the example of Jesus.
We value COMMUNITY. We are brothers and sisters in Christ who gather to worship, study, share and play.
We value OUTREACH. Our service to others includes supporting local, national, and global ministries.
Do these values resonate with you? Touch your Heart? Feel like Home? Make you curious? Feel like you want to know more? Come and see!
We are a CHRIST-CENTERED People. We base our worship, educational programs and other activities on the life and example of Jesus as written in the Scriptures.
We value HOSPITALITY. We are a warm and welcoming congregation.
We are a COMPASSIONATE People. We care deeply about all people and are moved to action by the example of Jesus.
We value COMMUNITY. We are brothers and sisters in Christ who gather to worship, study, share and play.
We value OUTREACH. Our service to others includes supporting local, national, and global ministries.
Do these values resonate with you? Touch your Heart? Feel like Home? Make you curious? Feel like you want to know more? Come and see!
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Come to the Quiet
Recently I traveled to the Monastery at St. Gertrude's outside of Cottonwood, Idaho, for a week long silent retreat. That's right, an entire week of silence. No talking! No telephones, no computer, no meetings or appointments. Worship and meals, optional. An hour each day with a Spiritual Director, also optional.
Now I can hear some people saying, in a horrified tone of voice, "Oh my God, what did you do with all that time?" That's just the point! Oh, my God! Our world, our lives have become so busy, so noisy, so full of activity that we've forgotten how to enter into the silence of God. We no longer value silence as a way of seeking his guidance, listening for His voice, resting in His presence.
Oh, My God! I had oceans of time to gaze uninterrupted at the beauty surrounding me; more than one awesome sunrise, deer crossing the meadow, ground fog blanketing the prairie, sunshine, clouds and snow fall. In that sacred silence, I learned to rest in His presence. My heart began to open more fully and I could see and hear Him more clearly.
Take a break from the fast lane. Put aside your Day Timer. Turn off the phones and computer. Create for yourself a silent time every day. Pray and wait on God. Come to the quiet and rest in His presence.
Oh, My God! I had oceans of time to gaze uninterrupted at the beauty surrounding me; more than one awesome sunrise, deer crossing the meadow, ground fog blanketing the prairie, sunshine, clouds and snow fall. In that sacred silence, I learned to rest in His presence. My heart began to open more fully and I could see and hear Him more clearly.
Take a break from the fast lane. Put aside your Day Timer. Turn off the phones and computer. Create for yourself a silent time every day. Pray and wait on God. Come to the quiet and rest in His presence.
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Where to Find God
The other day, I drove past a church with a new electronic reader board. It said: "2012 Seeking God Every Day." My quirky sense of humor kicked in and I thought to myself, "Someone should speak to Him about running off and hiding every day so that we have to go looking for Him all the time!"
Maybe that reader board should say, "Discovering God Every Day." There's no need to be seeking or searching for God; He's all around us, ever present, and waiting for us to notice Him and open our hearts to Him. He is present in every sunrise and sunset. He is present in every flower that opens, every baby who is born, every act of kindness and compassion. He is present in our conversations and interactions with each other. He is present in every song we sing, and also in the silence of our solitude.
He is present in the Scriptures and our study of them. He is present when we gather to worship, when we pray, when we are sick or experiencing difficulties. He is present at the time of our death, waiting with open arms to receive us.
Do not be afraid; He is with us always. Rejoice and be glad!
Maybe that reader board should say, "Discovering God Every Day." There's no need to be seeking or searching for God; He's all around us, ever present, and waiting for us to notice Him and open our hearts to Him. He is present in every sunrise and sunset. He is present in every flower that opens, every baby who is born, every act of kindness and compassion. He is present in our conversations and interactions with each other. He is present in every song we sing, and also in the silence of our solitude.
He is present in the Scriptures and our study of them. He is present when we gather to worship, when we pray, when we are sick or experiencing difficulties. He is present at the time of our death, waiting with open arms to receive us.
Do not be afraid; He is with us always. Rejoice and be glad!
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Four Part Harmony
Many of us have fond memories of Christmas past, especially when we were children. I have two that I want to share. One is of my two uncles competing to see who could toss icicles to the top of the ceiling high Christmas tree. (These were to old-fashioned foil tinsel kind; you can't do this with the modern ones. )
The other memory is of the extended family gathering on Christmas Eve, or the next night, to enjoy singing around the piano and sharing Christmas goodies. While the cookies, fruit cake, (Grandma's famous butterless-eggless-milkless cake, a war time recipe that would cost an arm and a leg to make today) and punch were good to have, it was the music that meant the most to me over the years.
We had a stack of old hymnals, and two aunties who took turns playing the piano for us. We sang four-part harmony all evening, starting at the beginning of the hymnal and singing our way through all the favorites, especially the Christmas carols and hymns. If the pianist didn't know a particular hymn, she would play the opening notes and we would sing acapella. We sang until we ran out of hymns, lost our voices, or the aunties got too tired to play.
I miss that celebration and the extended family gathering. However, the memories are fresh and the music is still meaningful to me. I love all the music of the season, especially the old familiar carols and hymns sung in that old-fashioned four part harmony.
Four-part harmony? There's a lesson in there somewhere. The different voices blending together made something beautiful to experience. When we as a people, a wider community or nation can learn to blend our voices in such a way as to create a greater harmony, how much more beautiful our world will be.
The other memory is of the extended family gathering on Christmas Eve, or the next night, to enjoy singing around the piano and sharing Christmas goodies. While the cookies, fruit cake, (Grandma's famous butterless-eggless-milkless cake, a war time recipe that would cost an arm and a leg to make today) and punch were good to have, it was the music that meant the most to me over the years.
We had a stack of old hymnals, and two aunties who took turns playing the piano for us. We sang four-part harmony all evening, starting at the beginning of the hymnal and singing our way through all the favorites, especially the Christmas carols and hymns. If the pianist didn't know a particular hymn, she would play the opening notes and we would sing acapella. We sang until we ran out of hymns, lost our voices, or the aunties got too tired to play.
I miss that celebration and the extended family gathering. However, the memories are fresh and the music is still meaningful to me. I love all the music of the season, especially the old familiar carols and hymns sung in that old-fashioned four part harmony.
Four-part harmony? There's a lesson in there somewhere. The different voices blending together made something beautiful to experience. When we as a people, a wider community or nation can learn to blend our voices in such a way as to create a greater harmony, how much more beautiful our world will be.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Associate Pastor's Office Hours
Our Associate Pastor, Sonya, has recently established an office in the main church building and is keeping regular office hours on Tuesdays from 1:30-3:30p and Thurdays from 2-4p. If these times are not convenient, call the church office (509-525-6702) for an appointment.
To find this office, come in the front door, climb the stairs to the loft and knock on the door at the top of those stairs. Please come visit, or enjoy a free guided tour after any Sunday service.
To find this office, come in the front door, climb the stairs to the loft and knock on the door at the top of those stairs. Please come visit, or enjoy a free guided tour after any Sunday service.
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Christmas Cheer?
It seems as though when I am feeling all snuggly and comfy, coffee in hand, maybe a good book on my lap, that is the time something speaks loudly to me – at the times I least expect it.
Having been married to a firefighter for many years, there is always a police/fire scanner making noise at my house. Most of the time I tune it out, but there are those times when I hear something that drops me to my knees. This story is sad but oh, so true. It began as a routine call for the Medic to report to a location for a possible broken hand. One hears things like that all the time, so I didn’t really pay a whole lot of attention to it until I heard the paramedic call for an officer to that location. He stated that this person was faking a broken hand because he had no where to go. My heart broke; it was late and cold. A hopeful ride to the hospital to get out of the cold was his desperate plea. My mind was spinning as I looked around me sitting all comfy, cozy, my Christmas tree all lit up, and yes, sipping my nice warm coffee. I suddenly felt sick, guilty, sad, wealthy, and thankful – all at the same time. We talk about the homeless, we bring food and blankets, coats and clothes to shelters, but we don’t usually actually see them, we only hear about them. We know they are out there, but if we don’t know who they are or actually see them – the men, women, children, and families, we help meaningfully, but in a somewhat detached way. This man became very real to me at that moment. But what happened next was the beautiful part of this story.
The officer arrived on the scene and all was quiet for a while. After several minutes, I heard the officer call in to the dispatcher and say he would be out of service for a bit, as he was taking this gentleman to get something warm to drink and get him out of the cold for a little bit. That officer was an angel at that moment.
This event has lingered on my mind all week long. I have wondered what happened to that man, where he ended staying for the night. Was he warm, and was he fed? I have remembered him in my prayers as well as all those who are without a home and/or family this winter. As we prepare for our own Christmas festivities with our families and friends, let us remember those who are going without all the wonderful pleasures we share and how at times, we overindulge ourselves in those pleasures.
May the true meaning of Christmas come to each of us in our own special way this year. May we never forget to give thanks for the things we have and share our abundance with those who are so in need. Christmas cheer is so much sweeter when we give the gift of ourselves.
May God, who gave to us the ultimate gift of His Son, bless each and every one of us in a very special way this Christmas Season.
Having been married to a firefighter for many years, there is always a police/fire scanner making noise at my house. Most of the time I tune it out, but there are those times when I hear something that drops me to my knees. This story is sad but oh, so true. It began as a routine call for the Medic to report to a location for a possible broken hand. One hears things like that all the time, so I didn’t really pay a whole lot of attention to it until I heard the paramedic call for an officer to that location. He stated that this person was faking a broken hand because he had no where to go. My heart broke; it was late and cold. A hopeful ride to the hospital to get out of the cold was his desperate plea. My mind was spinning as I looked around me sitting all comfy, cozy, my Christmas tree all lit up, and yes, sipping my nice warm coffee. I suddenly felt sick, guilty, sad, wealthy, and thankful – all at the same time. We talk about the homeless, we bring food and blankets, coats and clothes to shelters, but we don’t usually actually see them, we only hear about them. We know they are out there, but if we don’t know who they are or actually see them – the men, women, children, and families, we help meaningfully, but in a somewhat detached way. This man became very real to me at that moment. But what happened next was the beautiful part of this story.
The officer arrived on the scene and all was quiet for a while. After several minutes, I heard the officer call in to the dispatcher and say he would be out of service for a bit, as he was taking this gentleman to get something warm to drink and get him out of the cold for a little bit. That officer was an angel at that moment.
This event has lingered on my mind all week long. I have wondered what happened to that man, where he ended staying for the night. Was he warm, and was he fed? I have remembered him in my prayers as well as all those who are without a home and/or family this winter. As we prepare for our own Christmas festivities with our families and friends, let us remember those who are going without all the wonderful pleasures we share and how at times, we overindulge ourselves in those pleasures.
May the true meaning of Christmas come to each of us in our own special way this year. May we never forget to give thanks for the things we have and share our abundance with those who are so in need. Christmas cheer is so much sweeter when we give the gift of ourselves.
May God, who gave to us the ultimate gift of His Son, bless each and every one of us in a very special way this Christmas Season.
Monday, November 28, 2011
'Tis The Season To Be Stressed Out
'Tis the season to feel hurried, harried, and generally stressed out. For some, it's become so stressful, that they're rather not celebrate Christmas at all. When did "Ho, Ho, Ho," become, "No, No, No!" When did the season become one to be dreaded?
Maybe it was when we decided or someone insisted, that the celebration needed to be perfect in every way: the perfect gifts, the perfect tree, the perfect dinner. Maybe it was when we forgot the original meaning of the celebration, when we unconsciously decided to go with the Three Kings instead of the Christ Child.
We appear to be following the Three Kings who brought gifts to the Holy Child instead of celebrating the gift of that Child. What would happen if we decided (with all due respect to the Kings) to follow the Child instead of the Kings?
Perhaps we would feel blessed instead of hurried, harried, and stressed. Perhaps we would slow down and be content with small gifts, a nice tree, and a just right dinner. Perhaps the season would become one of childlike happiness.
The gift of any child is precious. God's gift of the Christ Child is even more so. Let's take time to remember the "reason for the season" and follow that Child into a different way of celebrating His birth.
Put the Three Kings in the back seat. Allow the Christ Child to be the driver. Make this Christmas season one of peace and joy.
Maybe it was when we decided or someone insisted, that the celebration needed to be perfect in every way: the perfect gifts, the perfect tree, the perfect dinner. Maybe it was when we forgot the original meaning of the celebration, when we unconsciously decided to go with the Three Kings instead of the Christ Child.
We appear to be following the Three Kings who brought gifts to the Holy Child instead of celebrating the gift of that Child. What would happen if we decided (with all due respect to the Kings) to follow the Child instead of the Kings?
Perhaps we would feel blessed instead of hurried, harried, and stressed. Perhaps we would slow down and be content with small gifts, a nice tree, and a just right dinner. Perhaps the season would become one of childlike happiness.
The gift of any child is precious. God's gift of the Christ Child is even more so. Let's take time to remember the "reason for the season" and follow that Child into a different way of celebrating His birth.
Put the Three Kings in the back seat. Allow the Christ Child to be the driver. Make this Christmas season one of peace and joy.
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Remember Christ this Christmas
It's that most wonderful time of the year--again! Christmas is coming, and for many of us that means lots to do: mail cards, shop for gifts, plan parties and other special events and much, much more. The activity of the season can bring great joy, but our joy is incomplete if we do not take time to consider the spiritual significance of the season.
Christmas is a celebration of God entering the world in the person of Jesus Christ. Jesus shows us that God is gracious and loving and desires peace and justice for all people.
In the midst of all the activity of this season, why not set aside some time to thank God for the gift of Jesus and to ponder what his presence means for you. Here are some questions to stimulate your thinking: When have you experienced God's love and grace? What nations and peoples need peace and justice today? What does it mean to follow Jesus? How can you help bring peace and justice to others?
Christmas is a celebration of God entering the world in the person of Jesus Christ. Jesus shows us that God is gracious and loving and desires peace and justice for all people.
In the midst of all the activity of this season, why not set aside some time to thank God for the gift of Jesus and to ponder what his presence means for you. Here are some questions to stimulate your thinking: When have you experienced God's love and grace? What nations and peoples need peace and justice today? What does it mean to follow Jesus? How can you help bring peace and justice to others?
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
We Walk Because They Walk
Here's a reflection from someone who participated in the Walla Walla CROP (Communities Respond to Overcome Poverty) fundraising walk last week:
My CropWalk Experience
What a beautiful day to walk. Due to not being in as good of shape as I had hoped to be, we (my friend and Pastor, Linda) decided to just walk the 5k instead of the 10k. Such a wonderful time of enjoying Gods beauty, a nice visit, and getting some good exercise - all at the same time! We kept a steady comfortable pace and yet managed to be the last ones to finish.
Tired, feeling the blood throbbing in my now swollen fingers, and feeling the flush as well as the pulsing in my face, I felt a sense of accomplishment - ahhhh, I did it!
When I walked in the door feeling smugly proud of myself, I grabbed a glass of orange juice, a cold glass of water, and an ice pack for my aching, arthritic toe and dropped into my recliner. What a great feeling of accomplishment! I repeat this phrase for a reason.
It must have been 30 minutes or so later, I had the idea of jumping out of my chair and seeing what I wanted to fix for dinner; only I didn’t jump. As a matter fact, I didn’t move! Pain and stiffness had moved into my body while I was sitting there feeling so good about myself. Shock! What is THIS?! The rest of the day was spent wondering where the other “me” had gone so quickly, the one who had happily walked earlier that day. Where did that sense of accomplishment go? Over the rest of the evening and throughout the next day, I found more evidence that I was not as “in shape” as I had hoped. My lower back caused me to walk at an almost 90 degree angle. My groin muscles pulled. I had rubbed a sore spot on my leg and found a huge blister along the outside of my left heel.
Then it hit me! THIS is what it was all about! DUH. It wasn’t about the good weather for the walk, or the happy wonderful time I had. It was about the pain! With a totally new perspective, I realized that while what I had done was a fun thing, but there are millions who walk that far and much farther every day just to get food to feed their families. And then they have to walk back – I had a comfortable ride home in a car. We walked in fine weather – others walk in searing heat without water; walk in blinding rain – with no cover. They walk carrying children whose ribs are showing, their bellies bloated from hunger and lack of nutrition. Sometimes they have to stop and bury those children because they die before they reach their destination. They feel more pain than I have ever felt in one moment of my life, and yet they walk – just to survive one more day.
All of a sudden I loved every ache and pain I had. I thank God for my now not-so-big aches and pains, as each one reminds me of those who are dying every day because they don’t have the luxury of driving to the grocery store - an act I take for granted.
O Heavenly Father, I thank you for my pain from this walk, as it is a reminder of those who are dying every day because they lack food and clothing, and shelter from the elements. Let me never take the things I have for granted and always help me to find new ways to share my wealth with those who are in need. In the name of Jesus, I pray, Amen.
My CropWalk Experience
What a beautiful day to walk. Due to not being in as good of shape as I had hoped to be, we (my friend and Pastor, Linda) decided to just walk the 5k instead of the 10k. Such a wonderful time of enjoying Gods beauty, a nice visit, and getting some good exercise - all at the same time! We kept a steady comfortable pace and yet managed to be the last ones to finish.
Tired, feeling the blood throbbing in my now swollen fingers, and feeling the flush as well as the pulsing in my face, I felt a sense of accomplishment - ahhhh, I did it!
When I walked in the door feeling smugly proud of myself, I grabbed a glass of orange juice, a cold glass of water, and an ice pack for my aching, arthritic toe and dropped into my recliner. What a great feeling of accomplishment! I repeat this phrase for a reason.
It must have been 30 minutes or so later, I had the idea of jumping out of my chair and seeing what I wanted to fix for dinner; only I didn’t jump. As a matter fact, I didn’t move! Pain and stiffness had moved into my body while I was sitting there feeling so good about myself. Shock! What is THIS?! The rest of the day was spent wondering where the other “me” had gone so quickly, the one who had happily walked earlier that day. Where did that sense of accomplishment go? Over the rest of the evening and throughout the next day, I found more evidence that I was not as “in shape” as I had hoped. My lower back caused me to walk at an almost 90 degree angle. My groin muscles pulled. I had rubbed a sore spot on my leg and found a huge blister along the outside of my left heel.
Then it hit me! THIS is what it was all about! DUH. It wasn’t about the good weather for the walk, or the happy wonderful time I had. It was about the pain! With a totally new perspective, I realized that while what I had done was a fun thing, but there are millions who walk that far and much farther every day just to get food to feed their families. And then they have to walk back – I had a comfortable ride home in a car. We walked in fine weather – others walk in searing heat without water; walk in blinding rain – with no cover. They walk carrying children whose ribs are showing, their bellies bloated from hunger and lack of nutrition. Sometimes they have to stop and bury those children because they die before they reach their destination. They feel more pain than I have ever felt in one moment of my life, and yet they walk – just to survive one more day.
All of a sudden I loved every ache and pain I had. I thank God for my now not-so-big aches and pains, as each one reminds me of those who are dying every day because they don’t have the luxury of driving to the grocery store - an act I take for granted.
O Heavenly Father, I thank you for my pain from this walk, as it is a reminder of those who are dying every day because they lack food and clothing, and shelter from the elements. Let me never take the things I have for granted and always help me to find new ways to share my wealth with those who are in need. In the name of Jesus, I pray, Amen.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
When There Are No Words
Sometimes I cannot find words to express myself. Usually this is when my feelings are the deepest and most intense, whether positive or negative. As I've read and listened to the news commemorating the anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks, I notice that others have had the same experience. "There are no words for how I feel," many people said.
I am comfortable with the language of "no words." Sometimes less is more. When tragedy strikes, I sit in stunned silence; when I am surprised by joy, I beam wordlessly. Communication is happening, it's just not out loud. I call this kind of communication, "prayer." It's my favorite kind of prayer because it's the most authentic; it's straight from my heart to God's ears. It doesn't have to make sense, it doesn't have to have the right syntax, there is no screening of thoughts and feelings. My prayer is just out there and it's fine.
Maybe you have had the same kind of experience in the last few days as you've considered the tragedy of 10 years ago. Don't worry if you can't find words, you don't need them. Use the language of "no words," and trust me, God will hear you as clearly as if you spoke the words with the most eloquent language.
I am comfortable with the language of "no words." Sometimes less is more. When tragedy strikes, I sit in stunned silence; when I am surprised by joy, I beam wordlessly. Communication is happening, it's just not out loud. I call this kind of communication, "prayer." It's my favorite kind of prayer because it's the most authentic; it's straight from my heart to God's ears. It doesn't have to make sense, it doesn't have to have the right syntax, there is no screening of thoughts and feelings. My prayer is just out there and it's fine.
Maybe you have had the same kind of experience in the last few days as you've considered the tragedy of 10 years ago. Don't worry if you can't find words, you don't need them. Use the language of "no words," and trust me, God will hear you as clearly as if you spoke the words with the most eloquent language.
Thursday, August 11, 2011
The Great Blue Heron
I have an outdoor fish pond, and am very familiar with predators arriving for an easy meal. Owls, Raccoons, Kingfishers and Great Blue Herons have all come to hunt. More than once, I have returned home to find a Heron standing in a tree close to my pond. (That's right, Herons will stand or roost up in trees!)
On the advice of a local pet store owner, I purchased a life-sized plastic Heron decoy and placed it close to my pond. The theory is that if a real Heron flies over the pond and sees what it thinks is a fellow bird, it will not come in for a meal. However, if it sees more than one, it will join the flock.
Fortunately, God is not a Heron! He will "fly in" for the one person or the many. Christians are not Herons, either. We also "fly in" for the one and the many, sharing nourishment for soul and body, sharing the good news of God's love. (photo courtesy flickr/jokerswild1963)
On the advice of a local pet store owner, I purchased a life-sized plastic Heron decoy and placed it close to my pond. The theory is that if a real Heron flies over the pond and sees what it thinks is a fellow bird, it will not come in for a meal. However, if it sees more than one, it will join the flock. Fortunately, God is not a Heron! He will "fly in" for the one person or the many. Christians are not Herons, either. We also "fly in" for the one and the many, sharing nourishment for soul and body, sharing the good news of God's love. (photo courtesy flickr/jokerswild1963)
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Consciously Choosing Elderhood
I recently made a trip to Mt. Shasta for a week long retreat. Six "young elders," all of us over 60, gathered to contemplate moving into the last one-third of our lives. We wanted to make a conscious choice about this transition from middle age to Elder.
What does it mean to be an Elder? How will I handle being retired and a senior citizen? What is God calling me to do or be when I can't do or be what I was as a younger person? (Darn it, where are my glasses, where did all my energy go, who made the newspaper print so small, and what the heck is a Blackberry?! You make jam out of blackberries, right?)
We shared our stories, made decisions about what we wanted to let go or leave behind us: outdated attitudes, dreams, fantasies, old ways of thinking about who we are. We dreamed new dreams about who we want to be as wise elders, sharing our life experiences and wisdom with those coming along behind us. We spent a quiet day near the mountain, listening for God's voice and praying for direction.
We returned refreshed, renewed, and a bit wiser about ourselves and where we want to be as we grow older. We stated our intentions to each other, sharing our witness, and our love. We're not old! We're Elders, just not as young as we used to be.
Grace Church is over 100 years old, already a wise Elder. Now, she is at a cross roads and choices must be made regarding her next several years of life. We, as her people, have an opportunity to make wise, conscious, and God centered decisions about the future. Who are we? What is God calling us to be or do in our community? Where do we want to be in ten years? Who, besides God, will help us in this endeavor?
Stay tuned! More to come after a short break!!
What does it mean to be an Elder? How will I handle being retired and a senior citizen? What is God calling me to do or be when I can't do or be what I was as a younger person? (Darn it, where are my glasses, where did all my energy go, who made the newspaper print so small, and what the heck is a Blackberry?! You make jam out of blackberries, right?)
We shared our stories, made decisions about what we wanted to let go or leave behind us: outdated attitudes, dreams, fantasies, old ways of thinking about who we are. We dreamed new dreams about who we want to be as wise elders, sharing our life experiences and wisdom with those coming along behind us. We spent a quiet day near the mountain, listening for God's voice and praying for direction.
We returned refreshed, renewed, and a bit wiser about ourselves and where we want to be as we grow older. We stated our intentions to each other, sharing our witness, and our love. We're not old! We're Elders, just not as young as we used to be.
Grace Church is over 100 years old, already a wise Elder. Now, she is at a cross roads and choices must be made regarding her next several years of life. We, as her people, have an opportunity to make wise, conscious, and God centered decisions about the future. Who are we? What is God calling us to be or do in our community? Where do we want to be in ten years? Who, besides God, will help us in this endeavor?
Stay tuned! More to come after a short break!!
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Blueberry Prayers
It's no secret that planting, growing and harvesting food is very satisfying. There is something special about working the earth, examining plants for blossoms and fruit and eating the fresh produce. I like how connected it makes me feel to the earth, its inhabitants and the one who created it all.
Recently I picked blueberries at a local farm and almost without realizing it, began to pray. As I picked I breathed in, when the berries hit the bucket, I breathed out. Inhale, exhale: thank you, God, for breath. Breathe in, breathe out: thank you God for the fresh, early-morning air. It seemed to me that all the pickers had this same sense of quiet rhythm. Berries. Bucket. Breath.
Thank you God for my fellow pickers who got up early to pick and pray. Bless them and bless all who will be nourished by this fruit from your earth. Bless pickers of fruit and vegetables everywhere, some working under extremely harsh conditions: long hours, hard work, scorching weather, and low pay. Bless the migrant workers, the farmers struggling to keep their farm and people like me, who simply enjoy their hobby because it connects them to the earth, its inhabitants and You, who created it all. Oh yes, and thank you for sweet, beautiful blueberries. Amen.
Recently I picked blueberries at a local farm and almost without realizing it, began to pray. As I picked I breathed in, when the berries hit the bucket, I breathed out. Inhale, exhale: thank you, God, for breath. Breathe in, breathe out: thank you God for the fresh, early-morning air. It seemed to me that all the pickers had this same sense of quiet rhythm. Berries. Bucket. Breath. Thank you God for my fellow pickers who got up early to pick and pray. Bless them and bless all who will be nourished by this fruit from your earth. Bless pickers of fruit and vegetables everywhere, some working under extremely harsh conditions: long hours, hard work, scorching weather, and low pay. Bless the migrant workers, the farmers struggling to keep their farm and people like me, who simply enjoy their hobby because it connects them to the earth, its inhabitants and You, who created it all. Oh yes, and thank you for sweet, beautiful blueberries. Amen.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Thank You, Phyllis
I recently attended a memorial service for someone from church. It was a happy time. Lots of stories were shared by friends and family; some made us laugh, others brought tears to our eyes. What I liked about this service was that it was an authentic tribute to an authentic woman. Phyllis was strong, stubborn, funny and resourceful. She was not perfect. She was deeply loved.
It's wonderful when a community of friends and family can love like that. It's really a reflection of God's love for all people. God loves us because God created us. We are not loved because we are perfect or even because we are always pleasant. God loves us because...well, because.
It was a blessing to honor Phyllis with our memories, to witness the love others had for her and to know, once again, the unconditional love of God for all people. Thank you Phyllis; thank you, God.
It's wonderful when a community of friends and family can love like that. It's really a reflection of God's love for all people. God loves us because God created us. We are not loved because we are perfect or even because we are always pleasant. God loves us because...well, because.
It was a blessing to honor Phyllis with our memories, to witness the love others had for her and to know, once again, the unconditional love of God for all people. Thank you Phyllis; thank you, God.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Don't Be Afaid!
On Easter morning, when the women left the tomb after having spoken with the Angel, they encountered the risen Jesus. His first words to them were, "Don't be afraid." Perhaps someone should count all the times recorded in the Bible where we are told, "Don't be afraid." Over and over, when the unusual is encountered, we read, "Don't be afraid." What is it about an encounter with an Angel or Jesus or God a frightful thing?
Over and over we hear that our God is the God of love. Over and Over both Jesus and Paul tell us of God's love for us. Perhaps we should be counting all the times the Bible tells us this! Maybe both numbers will help us remember to be strong in our faith.
God is with us, walking with us through any situation, carrying us through the dark or shadowy times. God is with us during illness and does not abandon us in death. God is with us, multiplying our joys and dividing our sorrows. Don't be afraid!
Over and over we hear that our God is the God of love. Over and Over both Jesus and Paul tell us of God's love for us. Perhaps we should be counting all the times the Bible tells us this! Maybe both numbers will help us remember to be strong in our faith.
God is with us, walking with us through any situation, carrying us through the dark or shadowy times. God is with us during illness and does not abandon us in death. God is with us, multiplying our joys and dividing our sorrows. Don't be afraid!
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Christ Is Risen!
Bible Reading: Matthew 28:1-10
After the sabbath, as the first day of the week was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb. And suddenly there was a great earthquake; for an angel of the Lord, descending from heaven, came and rolled back the stone and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothing white as snow. For fear of him the guards shook and became like dead men. But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid; I know that you are looking for Jesus who was crucified. He is not here; for he has been raised, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples, ‘He has been raised from the dead, and indeed he is going ahead of you to Galilee; there you will see him.’ This is my message for you.” So they left the tomb quickly with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. Suddenly Jesus met them and said, “Greetings!” And they came to him, took hold of his feet, and worshiped him. Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.”
Think about this: The tomb is a place of death, but it could not hold Jesus. By the power of God, he was raised into new life and God promises the same for our life. What "tombs" threaten to diminish your life? Do you believe that the power of God can draw you out of that "tomb" and give you the power to experience new life?
Prayer: Loving God, thank you for the gift of the risen Jesus, in whom we find new life and freedom from the tomb. Amen.
After the sabbath, as the first day of the week was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb. And suddenly there was a great earthquake; for an angel of the Lord, descending from heaven, came and rolled back the stone and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothing white as snow. For fear of him the guards shook and became like dead men. But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid; I know that you are looking for Jesus who was crucified. He is not here; for he has been raised, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples, ‘He has been raised from the dead, and indeed he is going ahead of you to Galilee; there you will see him.’ This is my message for you.” So they left the tomb quickly with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. Suddenly Jesus met them and said, “Greetings!” And they came to him, took hold of his feet, and worshiped him. Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.”
Think about this: The tomb is a place of death, but it could not hold Jesus. By the power of God, he was raised into new life and God promises the same for our life. What "tombs" threaten to diminish your life? Do you believe that the power of God can draw you out of that "tomb" and give you the power to experience new life?
Prayer: Loving God, thank you for the gift of the risen Jesus, in whom we find new life and freedom from the tomb. Amen.
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Saturday of Holy Week
Bible Reading: Matthew 27:57-66
When it was evening, there came a rich man from Arimathea, named Joseph, who was also a disciple of Jesus. He went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus; then Pilate ordered it to be given to him. So Joseph took the body and wrapped it in a clean linen cloth and laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn in the rock. He then rolled a great stone to the door of the tomb and went away. Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were there, sitting opposite the tomb. The next day, that is, after the day of Preparation, the chief priests and the Pharisees gathered before Pilate and said, “Sir, we remember what that impostor said while he was still alive, ‘After three days I will rise again.’ Therefore command the tomb to be made secure until the third day; otherwise his disciples may go and steal him away, and tell the people, ‘He has been raised from the dead,’ and the last deception would be worse than the first.” Pilate said to them, “You have a guard of soldiers; go, make it as secure as you can.” So they went with the guard and made the tomb secure by sealing the stone.
Think about this: What needs resurrecting in your life? What makes it hard to turn this over to God and trust that God will bring you, too, through death to new life?
Prayer: Lord God, remind us of your presence with us when we stumble, suffer, or are afraid in any way. Give us strength, courage, and peace, and help us to be an encouragement and sign of life to others. Amen.
You are invited to celebrate Easter at Grace United Methodist Church, 1520 Pleasant Street; Walla Walla, Washington.
10:00 Coffee and pastries
10:30 Worship
11:45 Easter Egg Hunt
When it was evening, there came a rich man from Arimathea, named Joseph, who was also a disciple of Jesus. He went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus; then Pilate ordered it to be given to him. So Joseph took the body and wrapped it in a clean linen cloth and laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn in the rock. He then rolled a great stone to the door of the tomb and went away. Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were there, sitting opposite the tomb. The next day, that is, after the day of Preparation, the chief priests and the Pharisees gathered before Pilate and said, “Sir, we remember what that impostor said while he was still alive, ‘After three days I will rise again.’ Therefore command the tomb to be made secure until the third day; otherwise his disciples may go and steal him away, and tell the people, ‘He has been raised from the dead,’ and the last deception would be worse than the first.” Pilate said to them, “You have a guard of soldiers; go, make it as secure as you can.” So they went with the guard and made the tomb secure by sealing the stone.
Think about this: What needs resurrecting in your life? What makes it hard to turn this over to God and trust that God will bring you, too, through death to new life?
Prayer: Lord God, remind us of your presence with us when we stumble, suffer, or are afraid in any way. Give us strength, courage, and peace, and help us to be an encouragement and sign of life to others. Amen.
You are invited to celebrate Easter at Grace United Methodist Church, 1520 Pleasant Street; Walla Walla, Washington.
10:00 Coffee and pastries
10:30 Worship
11:45 Easter Egg Hunt
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Good Friday (the day we recall Jesus' crucifixion)
Bible Reading: Matthew 27:32-56
As they went out, they came upon a man from Cyrene named Simon; they compelled this man to carry his cross.
And when they came to a place called Golgotha (which means Place of a Skull), they offered him wine to drink, mixed with gall; but when he tasted it, he would not drink it. And when they had crucified him, they divided his clothes among themselves by casting lots; then they sat down there and kept watch over him. Over his head they put the charge against him, which read, “This is Jesus, the King of the Jews.” Then two bandits were crucified with him, one on his right and one on his left. Those who passed by derided him, shaking their heads and saying, “You who would destroy the temple and build it in three days, save yourself! If you are the Son of God, come down from the cross.” In the same way the chief priests also, along with the scribes and elders, were mocking him, saying, “He saved others; he cannot save himself. He is the King of Israel; let him come down from the cross now, and we will believe in him. He trusts in God; let God deliver him now, if he wants to; for he said, ‘I am God’s Son.’” The bandits who were crucified with him also taunted him in the same way. From noon on, darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon. And about three o”clock Jesus cried with a loud voice, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” that is, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” When some of the bystanders heard it, they said, “This man is calling for Elijah.” At once one of them ran and got a sponge, filled it with sour wine, put it on a stick, and gave it to him to drink.But the others said, “Wait, let us see whether Elijah will come to save him.”
Then Jesus cried again with a loud voice and breathed his last. At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. The earth shook, and the rocks were split. The tombs also were opened, and many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised. After his resurrection they came out of the tombs and entered the holy city and appeared to many. Now when the centurion and those with him, who were keeping watch over Jesus, saw the earthquake and what took place, they were terrified and said, “Truly this man was God’s Son!” Many women were also there, looking on from a distance; they had followed Jesus from Galilee and had provided for him. Among them were Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joseph, and the mother of the sons of Zebedee.
Think about this: How does Jesus' death tell the truth about our lives and world? How does it give us hope? Where do you see God still at work to redeem and preserve creation? Where do you long to see God?
Prayer: Lord God, on the cross you suffered the very depths of our human life, even to the point of death. When we see the cross, let us remember that you become one of us and endured all elements of life to show us your great love and to give us hope. Amen.
As they went out, they came upon a man from Cyrene named Simon; they compelled this man to carry his cross.
And when they came to a place called Golgotha (which means Place of a Skull), they offered him wine to drink, mixed with gall; but when he tasted it, he would not drink it. And when they had crucified him, they divided his clothes among themselves by casting lots; then they sat down there and kept watch over him. Over his head they put the charge against him, which read, “This is Jesus, the King of the Jews.” Then two bandits were crucified with him, one on his right and one on his left. Those who passed by derided him, shaking their heads and saying, “You who would destroy the temple and build it in three days, save yourself! If you are the Son of God, come down from the cross.” In the same way the chief priests also, along with the scribes and elders, were mocking him, saying, “He saved others; he cannot save himself. He is the King of Israel; let him come down from the cross now, and we will believe in him. He trusts in God; let God deliver him now, if he wants to; for he said, ‘I am God’s Son.’” The bandits who were crucified with him also taunted him in the same way. From noon on, darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon. And about three o”clock Jesus cried with a loud voice, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” that is, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” When some of the bystanders heard it, they said, “This man is calling for Elijah.” At once one of them ran and got a sponge, filled it with sour wine, put it on a stick, and gave it to him to drink.But the others said, “Wait, let us see whether Elijah will come to save him.”
Then Jesus cried again with a loud voice and breathed his last. At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. The earth shook, and the rocks were split. The tombs also were opened, and many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised. After his resurrection they came out of the tombs and entered the holy city and appeared to many. Now when the centurion and those with him, who were keeping watch over Jesus, saw the earthquake and what took place, they were terrified and said, “Truly this man was God’s Son!” Many women were also there, looking on from a distance; they had followed Jesus from Galilee and had provided for him. Among them were Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joseph, and the mother of the sons of Zebedee.
Think about this: How does Jesus' death tell the truth about our lives and world? How does it give us hope? Where do you see God still at work to redeem and preserve creation? Where do you long to see God?
Prayer: Lord God, on the cross you suffered the very depths of our human life, even to the point of death. When we see the cross, let us remember that you become one of us and endured all elements of life to show us your great love and to give us hope. Amen.
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