FROM THE DESK OF THE RECTOR

Everywhere I see violence showing its ugly head: in the grocery store, on the street corner, within families and in the church.  Every generation has its challenges and comes through the other end at some point in time. And when all is said and done, we are left with the legacy of our own behaviour. Let’s think twice before voicing our opinion or defending our position.  People are very stressed right now and our contribution as Christians is to stand back, breathe in, say a prayer and ask for guidance as to how to proceed…. in love. 

One of my teachers, Marshall Rosenberg, called violence “a tragic expression of an unmet need”. So many people are hurting right now and lashing out. The pandemic is the excuse, but really, all of life is beyond our control. What is in our control is our response to all the situations we face.

Today’s scripture reading from Matthew, Jesus advises his followers, “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbour and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you. Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be children of your Father in heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the righteous and on the unrighteous. For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have?....Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” In other words, we are both the righteous and the unrighteous, as our neighbours are. So it behooves us to be kind. To not judge. And to pray for everyone.  And as our young Buddhist friend says, “If you can’t help, at least don’t hurt others”.

These are times of testing. And one thing we can do is use our ears more than our mouth; to listen for the suffering behind the anger and the fear.  People are fed up with the virus, but what can they do?  They can’t attack it, so they are acting out in all different kinds of ways.  Let our voice and manner be the voice of calm, of peace, of compassion.

Last week we were in Victoria and stopped in a coffee shop for take-out. The woman behind the counter was dressed very colourfully and greeted us enthusiastically.  I watched her move around the coffee shop greeting people, laughing and doing transactions with real presence. I told her, “You’ve made my day. Your energy is infectious!” And she answered, “This is my dream come true, having this shop. How could I not be happy!?” I won’t forget that woman, that lesson. How simple it is to “make someone’s day” with your presence, your laughter, your joy!!

Thank you to Mary Stark for this prayer.  For the sure knowledge that we are known, loved, and created for a purpose.  And for that, how can we not be thankful and full of joy?!  Thank you, St. Teresa!!

“May today there be peace within. May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be.  May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith.  May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you.  May you be content knowing you are a child of God.  Let this presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love.  It is there for each and every one of us."      ~ St. Teresa of Avila

So why not listen to your favourite hymn or song.  Dance.  Walk out into the garden or around the block.  Let your eyes smile behind your mask.  Call a grandchild.  Spread some happiness.

Wishing you joy for your day!

See you Sunday.
Selinde    

   Orange for Sunday, acknowledging the first Truth and Reconciliation Day (Sept 30) . If you like, wear something orange to Sunday’s Sept. 26 service.              

                                           

Please join us for the Blessing of the Animals on Sunday Oct. 3rd at noon.  We need a few volunteers to help with 'traffic flow' into the garden for a very short time.  Please let Selinde know if you can assist.