We Continue to Bring Divine Love into the World
We will continue to bring Divine Love into the world, one act of kindness at a time if need be.
This has been a hard week. Each day the news brings the reality of fear, hatred, and division into sharper focus. It’s discouraging to say the least. Yet, we must pay attention and prepare for more of the same.
It is tempting to play the ostrich at this point in time. However, rather than avoiding it all together, I recommend limiting your news intake. Maybe check in with your favorite news outlet once, maybe twice a day.
Then focus on the good you can do. Be in touch with those more vulnerable than you are. Let your loved ones know you care. Smile at your neighbors. Whenever possible, share your resources with those who have less than you do.
And seek hope and joy with intention. One of the things that is helping me sustain hope is the Interfaith Service and Moral Mass Meeting that took place on Monday evening. Prophetic words of hope and resistance. If you are feeling discouraged, take some time and view it.
Where else are you finding ways to lift your spirits? Please share them in the comments. Joy is an act of resistance that we can participate in together.
As you are seeking ways to take care of yourself, don’t forget all the ways we gather as community in addition to worship:
- Sunday Circle meets at 9 am on Sundays in the Library and is open to everyone. It’s a chance to reflect on a reading and check in with others.
- Congregational Care meets at 4:30 on the second Tuesday of the month on Zoom. New members are always welcome as we endeavor to care for members of our community.
- Women’s Group meets on the third Tuesday of the month. Time and location vary. Watch the announcements so you don’t miss any fun.
- Second Wednesday Coffee Hour meets at 10 am on the second Wednesday of the month in the Commons. It is a great time to gather with members of New Branches.
- Heart Circle meets on the first Thursday of the month at 6:30 pm on Zoom. This is an opportunity to gather with others to receive and offer support for whatever you are carrying. New folx are always welcome.
- Wise Aging Conversations meets on the fourth Thursday of the month at 6:30 pm on Zoom. We discuss the joys and challenges of fostering wisdom as we age. (This group meets tonight (1/23)!
- Book Club meets on Fridays at 1 pm on Zoom. Talk to Ann if you are interested in joining.
- Bible Study meets on Saturdays at 8 am on Zoom. This week we will begin reading 1 Corinthians and discussing how Paul’s words might apply to us now. Everyone is welcome.
We will continue to bring Divine Love into the world, one act of kindness at a time if need be. We are in this together. Invite a friend and join in any of these meetings that might meet your needs.
About Rachael Keefe
Rev. Dr. Rachael Keefe is the pastor of Living Table United Church of Christ. She was called to Living Table in 2015 after serving in many varied ministry settings since her ordination in 1992. She holds graduate degrees from Princeton Theological Seminary and Andover Newton Seminary at Yale (formerly Andover Newton Theological School). Her ministry and leadership often center around advocacy and accessibility. Her writing has been published by Chalice Press, The Christian Century, Red Letter Christians, Working Preacher, RevGalBlogPals, and others. She is grateful to be in ministry with Living Table today.
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Thank you for your continuing reminders to “seek hope and joy with intention”. And your brave example as you preach and teach.
I continue to seek ways to support others and resist hatred, apathy, and xenophobic behaviors.
Thank you, Sandy. We are together in this.