February 9, 2025
Dear All,
My sense is it’s easy to become numb to the news and all that is happening in our country and world. The rapid-fire nature of decisions being made in our national Capitol while not knowing their impact on folks. The fear tens of thousands have of losing their job or their personal identity. Tens of thousands fearing deportation – separation from their families and country which has been home for decades. Who wants to hear this on a daily, if not hourly basis?
Social media is no longer truly social as we know much of what is now on there is generated by bots and cannot be relied upon for accuracy. And our country is more divided than ever as retribution seems to be the name of the game for those formerly in federal administration. Some have decided not to watch the news anymore. But I wonder, how is not knowing helpful? Yes, it can lower one’s anxiety level, but how is that helpful to those affected by governmental actions? What exactly is our role when we believe others are being mis-treated? I don’t have the answers, but I can speculate on what Jesus might have to say about all of this.
This week’s lessons provide us with a chance to hear the “calls” of both the prophet Isaiah and Simon(Peter) to their vocation. Neither one had it easy once they accepted the call to their God-chosen vocation. Both were reluctant and felt unworthy to serve their Lord. Yet despite their doubt, God used them to speak to many folks about love and care for others. I wonder, what has God call you to do? How are you called to give love and grace to our world?
I invite you to ponder your own calling from God and where it might lead you. I suspect that calling includes a strong prayer life. I urge you to add verses 7-9 of Psalm 138 into your prayers this week. I find them particularly helpful and reassuring during challenging times.
Psalm 138
7 Though the Lord be high, he cares for the lowly*
he perceives the haughty from afar.
8 Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you keep me safe;*
you stretch forth your hand against the fury of my enemies;
you right hand shall save me.
9 The Lord will make good his purpose for me;*
O Lord your love endures for ever;
do not abandon the works of your hands.
Blessings to you and yours. May you have a courageous and great week!
Karen+