Our church, our community and our world is constantly changing and facing new challenges. It can be hard to keep up with it all and not feel discouraged, and want to zone out to what is around me. Watching the increased violence, religious extremist and oppression is painful and can leave me feeling confused in how to make an impact and be part of the solution.
This summer we welcomed our new Pastor, Rev. Heather Riggs. It is a pleasure to hear her energy and love for our church and community, and look forward to learning more about her. She is preaching a series that starts with a simple concept: “Show Up.” To go where the people are and to give peace and healing, showing that God’s love is with us.
Being loving and kind is an energy that brings light and healing and unites people together. I see how a genuine compliment, a warm touch, a smile or someone reaching out can empower me to do the same to others. When I pause and listen, I feel more connected to others, and expand my understanding.
I have become more aware recently of how short staffed we are in many of our service positions and have to constantly pause and be kind to the person on the front end. Hospitals, restaurants, and retail stores are just a few examples. I can easily be frustrated when I hear things like it will take 8 months to get your car part, 4 months for a needed Dr. appointment, 8 hour wait in the emergency room or an hour wait for a table at a restaurant. This can be more complicated and scary when dealing with services related to housing, mental health and addiction services. Sadly the waiting list for these are long, often months and maybe years to receive essential services.
I don’t know the answers to some of these complicated situations, but it does begin with love and being present. If as a community we continue to show up and unite together, we will have more resources and find more solutions. I can allow the Spirit to work in my own life to bring healing and light, and be open to learning from everyone God puts in my path.
