It sure is easy to let things slide when you are busy. This blog is one of the things that I let slide. I will try and do better next year.
Today is the first Sunday of Advent. I love that this holy time begins in the darkness. The reading from the gospel today is one of the apocalyptic readings from the gospel of Luke. Jesus is warning folks that terrible things will happen in the world. I love that the Gospel gets us started this week with images — not of swaddling clothes, twinkly stars, and fleecy lambs — but of the world as it really is, here and now using prophetic language, roaring seas, distress among the nations, people fainting in fear. Sounds like our world today… Gorgeous, fragile, and falling apart. There is so much to get through before we can get to this. We need to really look around us, look at our world. Look at the world that is getting ready to birth a baby once again. So join us as we travel through Advent on this amazing journey toward the light...
Sunday, 2 December 2018
Wednesday, 29 August 2018
Inside and Outside
In our scripture reading for this coming Sunday, Jesus tells the Pharisees that it is what comes out of the body that defiles, not what goes it. This is in response to the Pharisees accusing the disciples of eating without following the purity laws. So I have been doing some research and thinking about these thoughts. If we are to take Jesus seriously I think we need to honestly look at ourselves and who we are and how we respond to things. What is it that influences us? What is it that lies behind our motivations? Are we doing the things that we really want to do for the right reasons. Are we doing them to find glory and power for ourselves. So many questions. Many things to ponder before I can write a sermon this week. What is it that comes from you that defiles you? Are we as careful as we should be about what we say and do? I'm not sure I am. There are many times I say or do something and immediately regret it. I hope I am courageous enough to stand up and admit that I have done something wrong. Remember when it comes out of your mouth, you can't put it back. What has been heard has been heard. So take some time this week and ask yourself these questions. Maybe journaling about them will be helpful. I think that is what I will do.
Have a great week!
Have a great week!
Sunday, 13 May 2018
Mother's Day
On this mother's day I am so filled with gratitude for all the women in my life who have influenced me. My mom, Janet, who is wise and wonderful. She has taught me so much, part of which is to be a generous, loving human being who cares about others. I read a saying the other day written by Susan Eckert which says all that I want to say about being that person. Here it is...
It is called "That One"
Be that one. That one who forgives when deep offense has been committed. That one who loves when no one else does. That one who gives kindness to those who are mean. Be that one who looks past the insult, instead seeing the pain that motivated it. That one who shines light upon those who sit in darkness. Because the impact of being that one runs far and wide. It brings healing to the wounded, joy to the sad and hope to those in despair. Be that one.
This is who my mom taught me to be. Thanks to my mom and to all the moms out there who have inspired others to be the best they can be.
It is called "That One"
Be that one. That one who forgives when deep offense has been committed. That one who loves when no one else does. That one who gives kindness to those who are mean. Be that one who looks past the insult, instead seeing the pain that motivated it. That one who shines light upon those who sit in darkness. Because the impact of being that one runs far and wide. It brings healing to the wounded, joy to the sad and hope to those in despair. Be that one.
This is who my mom taught me to be. Thanks to my mom and to all the moms out there who have inspired others to be the best they can be.
Sunday, 12 March 2017
PONDERINGS
It has been a very long time since I posted on this blog. I guess I am not a true blogger. It was designed for me to put my ponderings and thoughts about whatever was important to me.
Well over this past week, I have been thinking about Nicodemus which is today's gospel reading and I have been thinking about the rich man and Lazarus which is the story I have to speak about for the Lenten Lunch this week. Two stories, both giving us something to think about and leave us wondering what we should do.
For me, the story of Nicodemus is about making choices. With Jesus telling this parable, he is offering a new dimension of humanity, a new insight into a way of relating to that which we think of as holy. He is saying there is more than just what you see. Not everything is black and white. Sometimes, things need to be looked at from a different perspective. I know that sometimes there is security in our safe and dark places, where we don't really have to make a choice to move out into the light and make changes in our behaviour or our thinking. But Jesus challenged everyone to do just that. Move out, think different, act in such a way as to show love to everyone, not just the few you like or are impressed with. Do it because it is the right thing to do.
When we look at the rich man and Lazarus, we hear another parable, another story. I heard one person referred to these parables as hand grenades, throw one into a party and they are designed to blow the place up. I am thinking that is perhaps what may have happened with today's story. I was reading some online stuff about this parable from different writers trying to get thoughts into my head, hear what others thought and then to put them into my own thoughts. One of the things that had me thinking and that I had never realised before was the fact that Jesus never said, "Believe Me". He did however, say "Follow Me". And that is just what I am going to challenge us to do on Thursday, Follow Jesus, right down into the Nitty Gritty of this parable. The parable of the Rich man and Lazarus may challenge what we believe about heaven and hell, or perhaps it may challenge our thinking around social order and who belongs and who doesn't.
For me, this parable just reinforces my belief that hell is not a far away place deep down in the underground but here on earth and we have done our part in helping to create it. Heaven, for me is also a place here on earth and we are challenged to make it a place where all are welcome. What do you think? Remember that faith is personal for each one of us and none of us are right or wrong, and none of us know for sure what happened or what will happen. The only thing I think each of us should ask ourselves is why we believe something so certainly, and not just because we were told when we were five in Sunday School and not just because it is written in scripture. Scripture as we know was written by people, inspired to record their experiences of the Holy in their lives. No so different from us today when we write in a gratitude journal or a diary to tell about our day. So challenge yourself to think about what you believe and why, think about what you hear heard form your church or your friends or family about faith: read, explore, study, think. (REST)
Come to church and be with us as we explore the Nicodemus story today. And then on Thursday as we are at our Lenten Lunch which is being held at the Catholic church this year, come and help us explore the rich man and Lazarus.
Have a great Sabbath everyone! May it be spent in whatever way brings you the most rest, simplicity, and care.
Well over this past week, I have been thinking about Nicodemus which is today's gospel reading and I have been thinking about the rich man and Lazarus which is the story I have to speak about for the Lenten Lunch this week. Two stories, both giving us something to think about and leave us wondering what we should do.
For me, the story of Nicodemus is about making choices. With Jesus telling this parable, he is offering a new dimension of humanity, a new insight into a way of relating to that which we think of as holy. He is saying there is more than just what you see. Not everything is black and white. Sometimes, things need to be looked at from a different perspective. I know that sometimes there is security in our safe and dark places, where we don't really have to make a choice to move out into the light and make changes in our behaviour or our thinking. But Jesus challenged everyone to do just that. Move out, think different, act in such a way as to show love to everyone, not just the few you like or are impressed with. Do it because it is the right thing to do.
When we look at the rich man and Lazarus, we hear another parable, another story. I heard one person referred to these parables as hand grenades, throw one into a party and they are designed to blow the place up. I am thinking that is perhaps what may have happened with today's story. I was reading some online stuff about this parable from different writers trying to get thoughts into my head, hear what others thought and then to put them into my own thoughts. One of the things that had me thinking and that I had never realised before was the fact that Jesus never said, "Believe Me". He did however, say "Follow Me". And that is just what I am going to challenge us to do on Thursday, Follow Jesus, right down into the Nitty Gritty of this parable. The parable of the Rich man and Lazarus may challenge what we believe about heaven and hell, or perhaps it may challenge our thinking around social order and who belongs and who doesn't.
For me, this parable just reinforces my belief that hell is not a far away place deep down in the underground but here on earth and we have done our part in helping to create it. Heaven, for me is also a place here on earth and we are challenged to make it a place where all are welcome. What do you think? Remember that faith is personal for each one of us and none of us are right or wrong, and none of us know for sure what happened or what will happen. The only thing I think each of us should ask ourselves is why we believe something so certainly, and not just because we were told when we were five in Sunday School and not just because it is written in scripture. Scripture as we know was written by people, inspired to record their experiences of the Holy in their lives. No so different from us today when we write in a gratitude journal or a diary to tell about our day. So challenge yourself to think about what you believe and why, think about what you hear heard form your church or your friends or family about faith: read, explore, study, think. (REST)
Come to church and be with us as we explore the Nicodemus story today. And then on Thursday as we are at our Lenten Lunch which is being held at the Catholic church this year, come and help us explore the rich man and Lazarus.
Have a great Sabbath everyone! May it be spent in whatever way brings you the most rest, simplicity, and care.
Sunday, 18 December 2016
MERRY CHRISTMAS
Well, it's been over two months since I posted to this blog. How time flies when you are having fun! It certainly seems like this year has flown by and I can't believe that I have been in Eston almost six years. It sure doesn't feel that long. I have been very busy working for the pastoral charge along with some presbytery work and conference work. This past year has seen me finish my Prairie Jubilee course so I am officially now a spiritual director. That was such an amazing course. I am co-convenor for the Faith Formation Committee of Conference, sit on Education and Students at our presbytery and am currently on two search committees, one for Outlook and one for Eatonia.
Our family has grown this year, a new baby girl, Addison born in May. I am so happy however, I miss my grands terribly.
Work has gotten even more challenging as I grow in my theology and faith and work to share with the congregation what I am learning. Our Bible study group is great, we meet on Wednesday mornings and it is a place where you can bring all your thoughts and wonders and express them freely without judgement or ridicule. It is a safe place for all.
This year I am hoping to offer a baptism/confirmation/reaffirmation of faith class where we look at what we believe, why we believe, maybe learn from one another and determine where we want to go next. It will also be a safe and sacred place for sharing.
As the United Church is making changes in their policies regarding ministry personnel, I find it harder and harder to find where I belong. We will also be exploring these changes in our classes and determining where we find ourselves in the midst of change.
Looking forward to 2017, I see new things happening. I am taking the ministry of supervision course in the hopes of one day being able to help another student as my supervisor helped me when I was going through theological school. I also hope to go on a few retreats to help nourish my own spiritual life.
Our Church School program continues to grow on Wednesday afternoons and we love seeing all the children.
So, join us at St. Andrew's for service on Sundays at 10:30 or call us for updates on times and events happening..
Christmas eve service is Saturday at 7:00. All are welcome
Merry Christmas
Barb
Our family has grown this year, a new baby girl, Addison born in May. I am so happy however, I miss my grands terribly.
Work has gotten even more challenging as I grow in my theology and faith and work to share with the congregation what I am learning. Our Bible study group is great, we meet on Wednesday mornings and it is a place where you can bring all your thoughts and wonders and express them freely without judgement or ridicule. It is a safe place for all.
This year I am hoping to offer a baptism/confirmation/reaffirmation of faith class where we look at what we believe, why we believe, maybe learn from one another and determine where we want to go next. It will also be a safe and sacred place for sharing.
As the United Church is making changes in their policies regarding ministry personnel, I find it harder and harder to find where I belong. We will also be exploring these changes in our classes and determining where we find ourselves in the midst of change.
Looking forward to 2017, I see new things happening. I am taking the ministry of supervision course in the hopes of one day being able to help another student as my supervisor helped me when I was going through theological school. I also hope to go on a few retreats to help nourish my own spiritual life.
Our Church School program continues to grow on Wednesday afternoons and we love seeing all the children.
So, join us at St. Andrew's for service on Sundays at 10:30 or call us for updates on times and events happening..
Christmas eve service is Saturday at 7:00. All are welcome
Merry Christmas
Barb
Sunday, 16 October 2016
Rainy Sunday In Eston
Good Morning,
It's a rainy day here again, just what the farmers didn't need.
This morning is family Sunday so we will have a potluck lunch with hotdogs. All are welcome to join us.
Our scripture this morning is the story of the widow and the unjust judge from the gospel of Luke. The traditional portrayal is of God as the unjust judge and we say that if that judge could be merciful to the widow how much more can God be merciful. However, this morning, we are going to be talking about putting ourselves into the place of the unjust judge and having God portrayed in the character of the persistent widow. The word widow is often translated as silent one, voiceless one... Can we hear her cries? Do we know how to respond? Don't we often feel that tug, or hear that still small voice telling us there is a need and that what we are doing it not the right thing to be doing. Divinity is inside us, the source of all that is moves in, through and among us always. We know the right things to do if we could just sit still long enough to hear them. But because as a society we are doers, we often don't hear the message until we have moved on to something else and realize what we have or haven't done. So for this morning, let's sit, quietly, think of all that is happening in our world, what can we do to help make things better, there is always something to be done, big or little. Where is our part? Are we unjust judges or judges who act with fairness and justice as our guide.
Here is a piece of my sermon this morning... My little grand-daughter Addison is here for her first visit. At just 4 months old she can’t talk yet but she sure can tell stories. When I hold her, especially at night, in the rocking chair, after bottle and bath, I couldn’t help but marvel at the reality that the Divine lives and breathes in, with and through this beautiful little baby girl. Divinity comes to us in all sorts of guises, and in our little Addison’s gentle breath I can hear the world crying out for justice. Justice for Addison certainly, justice for the world that she will grow up in, and justice for the planet she will inherit.
Have a beautiful day!
Barb
It's a rainy day here again, just what the farmers didn't need.
This morning is family Sunday so we will have a potluck lunch with hotdogs. All are welcome to join us.
Our scripture this morning is the story of the widow and the unjust judge from the gospel of Luke. The traditional portrayal is of God as the unjust judge and we say that if that judge could be merciful to the widow how much more can God be merciful. However, this morning, we are going to be talking about putting ourselves into the place of the unjust judge and having God portrayed in the character of the persistent widow. The word widow is often translated as silent one, voiceless one... Can we hear her cries? Do we know how to respond? Don't we often feel that tug, or hear that still small voice telling us there is a need and that what we are doing it not the right thing to be doing. Divinity is inside us, the source of all that is moves in, through and among us always. We know the right things to do if we could just sit still long enough to hear them. But because as a society we are doers, we often don't hear the message until we have moved on to something else and realize what we have or haven't done. So for this morning, let's sit, quietly, think of all that is happening in our world, what can we do to help make things better, there is always something to be done, big or little. Where is our part? Are we unjust judges or judges who act with fairness and justice as our guide.
Here is a piece of my sermon this morning... My little grand-daughter Addison is here for her first visit. At just 4 months old she can’t talk yet but she sure can tell stories. When I hold her, especially at night, in the rocking chair, after bottle and bath, I couldn’t help but marvel at the reality that the Divine lives and breathes in, with and through this beautiful little baby girl. Divinity comes to us in all sorts of guises, and in our little Addison’s gentle breath I can hear the world crying out for justice. Justice for Addison certainly, justice for the world that she will grow up in, and justice for the planet she will inherit.
Have a beautiful day!
Barb
Sunday, 29 May 2016
Childrens' Service
It is a beautiful day in Eston and the Children from our mid-week church school program are going to do the service for us. It will be great. Come and join us and see what great things they have learned this year. Our service starts at 10:30 and we will be taking a picture for the town time capsule.
We had so much fun with our church school program this year and hope to have it grow even more next year. We had a total of 38 register throughout the year and about 28 each week. Great numbers. The kids were enthusiastic and I think had a great time. We had some great food, learned a few new songs, Learned life lessons based on the stories shared with us in the bible. We explored our faith with Marcie and Jeff, characters in our stories each week. These stories were written by Kim Antosh. Kim and I are writing a three year children's church school program based on the lectionary. It is my hope that by the end of the second year, the senior class will have enough information to make the decision whether or not they are ready to be confirmed. That will be great fun.
The themes this year were, being a blessing, thanksgiving, being a friend, seeing in a different way, what is God?, The offering. Hope/anticipation. Peace, Joy, Love, Epiphany, being light, Belonging, our jobs in the church, rejection/bullying, prayer, temptation/good and bad, Patience, second chances/forgiveness, generosity, Palm Sunday, Easter/the spirit lives on, Feed my sheep, being a disciple, Pentecost, and trusting.
Kim and I are looking forward to writing next years lessons.
Have a great Sabbath everyone!
Barb
We had so much fun with our church school program this year and hope to have it grow even more next year. We had a total of 38 register throughout the year and about 28 each week. Great numbers. The kids were enthusiastic and I think had a great time. We had some great food, learned a few new songs, Learned life lessons based on the stories shared with us in the bible. We explored our faith with Marcie and Jeff, characters in our stories each week. These stories were written by Kim Antosh. Kim and I are writing a three year children's church school program based on the lectionary. It is my hope that by the end of the second year, the senior class will have enough information to make the decision whether or not they are ready to be confirmed. That will be great fun.
The themes this year were, being a blessing, thanksgiving, being a friend, seeing in a different way, what is God?, The offering. Hope/anticipation. Peace, Joy, Love, Epiphany, being light, Belonging, our jobs in the church, rejection/bullying, prayer, temptation/good and bad, Patience, second chances/forgiveness, generosity, Palm Sunday, Easter/the spirit lives on, Feed my sheep, being a disciple, Pentecost, and trusting.
Kim and I are looking forward to writing next years lessons.
Have a great Sabbath everyone!
Barb
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