Communitas: The Spirit of Community - Communal Discernment
True friends experience each other as being part of themselves in some profound way.
Spiritual Companions, David Benner
This aptly describes the way I’ve felt over the last few weeks as I’ve had a deep sense of connection to those who come to mind and remain on my heart...in the most ordinary of moments.
In feeding the birds.
In washing my hands.
In making sourdough bread.
In listening to our Indy Trinity Worship Spotify playlist.
In the eating of plain old white rice.
I believe this is the spirit of community experienced through devotion to Jesus and one another. At various points in life, deep connections have been made with God and those around me as we have devoted ourselves to Jesus and one another, guided by the Spirit to join the mission of God in the world.
And this is who we are as
wanderers and wonderers who gather to discover and embody the love of Jesus in the world.
In spending time together - not just physically, but conversationally - in our contexts, elements of life and faith merge together through love and sharing life. This kind of friendship leads to the experience of being a part of one another in a profound way.
Luke’s account of believers gathering together after the resurrection in Acts 2.42-27 highlights the importance of friendship.
Take a moment to read Acts 2.42-47.
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We’ve heard this story many times. It is the iconic image of the early church. While that may be the dominant narrative and a constant challenge to radical discipleship, I’m sure those earliest believers felt this way of being - this way of life together - was quite ordinary. Their attention was steadfast...on the ways of Jesus. They experienced him in what was taught and in their communion with one another, experienced around the table and their shared communion with God in prayer (that attunement to the Spirit). All that they had witnessed - the signs and wonders - caused awe to animate their lives, each and every one of them. The apostles were now undertaking the “wonders and signs” previously brought about through Jesus.
The Spirit was present, animating their lives.
Placing confidence in Christ propelled them to share all things in common. They found themselves RELOCATED in Christ, at home with God and one another in their context, participating in the mission of God in the world RECONCILING all things, and through the REDISTRIBUTION of goods and wealth. [If you’re not familiar with Christian Community Development, these 3 R’s are the basics. We catch a glimpse of this in the life of the early church!]
In their attention to one another - in the ordinary - they occupied sacred space. The temple - where God resided - was no longer confined to a particular building, but wherever they were. The sacred was now in their homes as they took in nourishment with extreme joy and singleness of heart, honoring God and extending grace to all people, not just those they “counted” among them. The Lord was gathering - relocating - people into Christ those who were being saved from the evils which obstruct receptance to Messianic deliverance.
The Kingdom of God reigned among them. It was lived into existence, as the Spirit guided them in ordinary service.
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Sometimes we’re oblivious to the sacredness of the ordinary and these ordinary moments with one another. But something about this pandemic brings the work of the Spirit to the forefront of our lives - to the space between us which is sacred - even when we’re physically distant.
In this sacred space, through devotion to the teachings of Jesus and to one another, we are invited to engage in our practices, part of which state:
The Spirit of God has inspired a story of hope and redemption, declaring what God has already done, is now doing, and God’s promise for the reconciliation of all creation. In that story we learn both who we are and what we are called to do as followers of Jesus. We hold space for varying expressions of faith, including a diversity of practice and thought, for all people in our church family. We embody the love of Jesus in the world, SERVING in ways aligned with our gifts and passions, PARTICIPATING in God re-narrating the world, living the Kingdom into existence through faithful presence in everyday spaces, with simplicity, authenticity, and creativity.
The elements of life and faith merge together through love and sharing, giving way to participation. Many times, we stay attuned to the way the Spirit is guiding us and animating our lives - especially in space between - through the practice of discernment.
Discernment means making a discriminating choice between two or more good options, seeking the best for this moment...Discernment does not bring us to absolute certainty, but rather operates in a climate of faith. Seeking to follow God’s call [or the “bigger story,” the “greater good”] moves us toward that which is better for us individually and for our world, and assures us that God will accompany us into the unknown.
The Way of Discernment, Elizabeth Liebert
Have you ever wondered which direction to go in joining the bigger story?
If you’re like me, more often than not, when asked what my prayer has looked like about such matters, I think, “what prayer? Oh, um...what a novel idea.” And other times, I recognize that in devotion to the teachings of Jesus and to one another, the Spirit has been at work in the space between us as
You enflesh God for me.
What good news! What a beautiful picture of community. The practice of discernment becomes a way of life as we allow the Spirit to be our guide in community, in the sacred space between us.
This week’s practice is for individual discernment matters, to experience the Spirit as Guide. While all discernment matters are really communal in nature, there is another process of discernment for matters communities hold particularly in common. Trinity’s Leadership Team uses the discernment process as we allow the Spirit to guide and animate our lives, communally. This week’s practice is simply an introduction to walking through discernment prayer.
May the Spirit be our Guide.
(By Melissa Millis)
April 26 E-Bulletin
*This song list can be found on Indy Trinity Worship Playlist on Spotify (click any song to get there)
COMMUNAL SONGS
Amazing Grace (I’ve Got a Reason to Sing)
CALL TO WORSHIP
Read Psalm 116.1-4, 12-19.This is the word of the Lord.
ALL: Thanks be to God.
COMMUNITY CONFESSION
Leader: We say we want change, but prefer the comfort of what we have; we long for new life, yet turn our backs on those around us. We could open our arms to others, but close them tight around our fears. Let us confess our lives to our God, as we hope for the Holy Spirit to come and dance among us, as we pray, saying,
ALL: Your Spirit moves over the waters, Gracious God, but we prefer to splash in the puddles of temptation. You would breathe life into us in every moment, but we hold our breath until we turn blue, wanting to get our way. You have loved us unconditionally, but we have failed to love you with all our heart, soul and might. In big ways and seemingly small ways, we have failed to love those around us. In your mercy, forgive us, God of grace.
Silence is kept
Leader: May your Spirit sing in our hearts, so we may invite others to dance in joy with us. May your Spirit be the still, small voice which silences the shouts of fear and worry all around us. May your Spirit sweep us off our feet and into the arms of Jesus Christ, our Savior.
ALL: In every breath we take, there is the Spirit; in every word we speak, there is the Spirit; in every heart we touch, there is the Spirit; in every person we welcome, there is the Spirit. In forgiveness, we are given the words to speak; the courage to reach out; the open heart to offer others; the breath of life to share with those around us. Thanks be to God, we are forgiven! Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING & PRACTICE INTRO
LORD’S TABLE LITURGY
Leader:Pour out your Spirit of rest and shalom upon this bread and this cup, that these gifts might nourish us.
ALL: As we find our rest in you, may we become restless in service to your children; as we engage with you in solitude, may we build a community of justice and righteousness; as we listen to your silence, may we speak out for all whose voices are ignored by the world. Then, when we gather with all who have found their rest with you at the Table of the Lamb, we will sing your praise for all eternity, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, God in Community, Holy in One. Amen.
Leader: The Spirit - our Companion - says, eat and drink. Christ’s body broken for you and the cup of the new covenant shed for you.
RESPONSE & OFFERING OF WORSHIP
The Offering Basket
ANNOUNCEMENTS
THE BENEDICTION
Leader: Now, God sends us out by a different road.
ALL: So we may find those who have been left by the side of the world.
Leader: Now, Jesus walks with us down a different road.
ALL: So we may serve those who are lonely and frightened.
Leader: Now, the Spirit illumines a different road.
ALL: So we may walk with our sisters and brothers in wonder and grace.
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REFLECTION & PRACTICE
Communitas: The Spirit of Community - Communal Conversation
*For discussion prompts and prayer guide, visit the series page here.
Communitas: The Spirit of Community - Communal Conversation
(By Melissa Millis)
Most of us are not “on the road” these days, except for the occasional stroll down the middle of the road - a rather enjoyable habit that many of us will likely need to break... eventually. It’s hard to journey with people in the midst of the quarantine. And yet, that’s what we’re called to as followers of Jesus - to be the Church - in relationship, in community with people.
Our creativity is showing. I’ve witnessed small groups of people “tailgating” to meet with family or friends with ample distancing. I have gone on social distancing walks and rus with people, in order to meet in person instead of engaging on a screen (which can feel lonely and isolating!).
“On the road” we converse. We listen. We learn. We form community.
Conversation has long been valued as a part of Trinity’s communal rhythm. In different seasons, we’ve veered toward more “meetings”, but always we value hearing one another’s stories. Part of the vision for Trinity says that we are,
“discovering that knowing and being known in relationship is the best way” we “know how to encounter the love of Jesus in and for the world.”
Showing up “on the road” is presence. Here, we encounter the love of Jesus.
Again and again throughout the Gospels, Jesus makes himself known, not to those in high positions of power or among the priests, but among the body. On the road to Emmaus, Jesus reveals himself to disciples. Check out the conversation Jesus has as he reveals himself.
Take a moment to contemplatively read Luke 24.13-35.
Looking closely at this scene, we might consider a few things. We might wonder who the “two of them” are? One is Cleopas - not someone we know much about. He and his wife are mentioned in John 19.25. So, it is possible that his wife is the companion on the road to Emmaus. We don’t know for sure. What is clear is that this familiar appearance story is among those who are ordinary followers of Jesus, not those in authority or those who maintain systems of power. The two are walking out of Jerusalem, literarily implying a journey away from hope. Seven miles is plenty of time to recount the story and to share the experience, as it becomes woven into their identities and lives.
This is naturally what we do as people who embrace story, relationship, and conversation. Trinity’s practices state that,
“As we discover the unfolding story of God together, we practice LISTENING to hear the Spirit and the voices of one another, LEARNING what it means to be grounded in, and following Jesus Christ, together.”
We ground ourselves in the story of God. Sometimes this is a confusing road to walk. Seriously! When Jesus came up and walked with the disciples, in their sadness, they didn’t recognize him. We might wonder, “what form is Jesus in?” There’s a lot of mystery to embrace here. Ironically, Cleopas said, “Are you the only one in Jerusalem who hasn’t heard what happened…?” As if Jesus doesn’t know! Clearly, Cleopas is confused. His experience has been disorienting.
As we might expect of Jesus’ conversational relationship style, his response comes in the form of a question. That’s what good conversation is - questions of curiosity that lead to engagement in the story of God at work in the world. The retelling of the story grounds us. Sometimes we retell joyful stories... and sometimes painful or disorienting ones... as we incorporate our experiences and memories into the fabric of our being. Cleopas then shares some details that blame others for the unfolding of events, only exacerbating his own confusion and illuminating his own disbelief.
Jesus calls out his disbelief, which is a bit obtuse. But, Jesus also understands the disorientation. A suffering Messiah is a bit of an oxymoron because it indicates that in the suffering and resurrection, Jesus embodied the fullness of salvation. This was a reversal of the people’s messianic expectations and understanding of power dynamics. So, Jesus recounts the story of God at work among the people, grounding their experience in the larger story of God.
I imagine that might have taken a while! Good thing that country road to Emmaus was a seven mile journey.
And then they arrived in Emmaus. Rather than departing from the disciples, Jesus joins them at the table, taking them up on the invitation to stay. In the blessing and sharing of the bread, they recognized him. The Greek word used for their recognition is one of knowing, intimately. It is as if they catch a glimpse of God through a moment where time is experienced as the merging of heaven and earth - kairos time - the Kingdom of God at hand. Divine presence was experienced.
Maybe Christ showed up in Spirit - that fire they felt inside themselves as they conversed on the road - as Jesus showed up not when, where, or how they imagined!
And this is the good news. Christ is with us, recognized in the Spirit, our companion.
Going back to Jerusalem - toward hope - they gathered with friends, comparing stories of their experience of Jesus being revealed to them.
I wonder how we move toward hope as we gather, compare stories of our experience of Jesus being revealed among us today?
Jesus continues to make himself known to us in the spirit of community, found in conversation. The Spirit is our companion. We all could use a companion these days. John 14.26 says that the Spirit will be not only our companion, but advocate, continuing to reveal the things Jesus made known in conversation among the first disciples.
This week’s practice is conversational prayer, as we consider the Spirit as Companion who is made known to us, intimately. This practice may seem a bit strange, but it is simply conversation. The spirit of community is found in conversation, as the Spirit draws us into the Story of God and invites us to join in.
As you engage in conversation, how do you experience the Spirit as a companion like the resurrected Jesus being made known among the early disciples?
As we find ourselves “on the road”, journeying with God and one another, may we hear the Companion’s invitation to discover and embody the love of Jesus in the world.
April 19th E-Bulletin
April 19, 2020
*This song list can be found on Indy Trinity Worship Playlist on Spotify (click any song to get there)
CALL TO WORSHIP
Read Psalm 16.This is the word of the Lord.
ALL: Thanks be to God.
COMMUNITY CONFESSION
Leader: God longs to take delight in us, but too often we disappoint with our hurtful words, the rejection of those around us, the love we hoard only for ourselves. Let us come to the One whose love is constant and true, as we pray together, saying,
ALL: Holy God, called to walk with the vulnerable, we run to catch up with the powerful. Asked to pray constantly for others, we are too busy bragging about ourselves. Challenged to notice and to care for those tossed aside by the world, we rush by with our to-do list in our hands. Have mercy on us, God who loves us completely. May we be the grace that a lonely person needs this week; may we be the hope the forgotten are looking for; may we be the peace that the broken long for in every moment, even as Jesus, our Lord and Savior, has been our peace, our hope, our grace, and so much more in our lives.
Silence is kept
Leader: Today, in this moment, the word is very near to us. The word of forgiveness, the word of hope, the word of our God for all of us.
ALL: God's heart is open to us, pouring mercy, wonder, and peace into our lives. Thanks be to God, we are forgiven! Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING & PRACTICE INTRO
LORD’S TABLE LITURGY
Leader: As we have the love of God made known at the Table, we proclaim that mystery we call faith:
ALL: Walking to his death, Christ entrusted his life to you; raised from the grave, Christ glorified in your love for him; standing in our midst at the end, Christ will gather us at your Table.
Leader: See what love God has for us as we are gathered around this Table of grace, and the Spirit of joy is poured out upon us in the gifts of the bread and the cup.
ALL: As brothers and sisters we take the broken bread and share it, that we would reach out to those who are forgotten. As we share the cup of community, we would stand beside the lonely and the longing, to pour God's gladness into their hearts.
Leader: Eat and drink – the Spirit of joy is poured out upon us in these gifts - the body of Christ broken for you and the cup of the new covenant shed for you.
RESPONSE & OFFERING OF WORSHIP
The Offering Basket
Praise God from whom all blessings flow
Praise Him all creatures here below
Praise Him above ye heavenly hosts
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost
ANNOUNCEMENTS
THE BENEDICTION
Leader: God’s Breath of hope has torn open the shutters of our hearts,
ALL: So that we may love God with all our hearts and open them to all who long for grace and life.
Leader: Justice is the strong wind poured into us by the One who is Brother to the forgotten.
ALL: We will go into the streets of our neighborhoods to serve our sisters and brothers.
Leader: A new community is being shaped by the Holy Spirit, made up of those from every place, every tongue.
ALL: We will join hearts with those we meet, we will learn songs of joy in new languages.
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REFLECTION & PRACTICE
Communitas: The Spirit of Community - Communal Joy
*For discussion prompts and prayer guide, visit the series page here.
Communitas: The Spirit of Community - Communal Joy
by Melissa Millis
We’ve officially entered the 50 day period in the Church calendar known as Eastertide, or the Paschal season. In it, we continue to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus while awaiting the observance of Jesus’ physical departure from Earth - the Ascension - and the imparting of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.
In many ways, we continue to live in the waiting - in the tension we heavily experienced last week, stepping out of Lent and into Easter. We’re well acquainted with waiting, which stirs many feelings deep in our beings. Waiting isn’t easy!
Take a moment to read the longer ending of Mark 16.9-18. What do you hear Jesus saying to you as you wait? Over the next few weeks, I encourage you to re-read this text until we arrive at the Ascension (observed on Thursday, May 21st).
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We await A LOT of things these days. In this world where God can easily seem absent, we might be asking ourselves, “where is the Spirit?!”
As we search for, and grow in attunement to, the Spirit (a fancy way to refer to prayer), also consider meditating on the words of Jesus in John 14.15-31 during this season. Take a moment even now to read the passage.
In what ways do Jesus’ words bring challenge? In what ways do they bring comfort?
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We continue to gather in community, albeit differently. We are faced with both challenges and small graces as we discover and embody the love of Jesus, growing in attunement with the Spirit who brings about community through joining God in mission - the outworking of the reign of God among us. As we Gather over this season leading up to Pentecost (observed Sunday, May 31st), we’ll consider key aspects of communitas as the foundation of the smallest units - the base - of our church family.
Communitas is the “Latin noun for the spirit of community, typically those groups that form beyond regular institutions and organizations and create a profound sense of equality and togetherness....a movement of some sort of spirit in which people discover that solidarity is possible. Some sociologists have noted that communitas has spiritual or sacred dimensions through which people overcome division and achieve a new sense of identity and purpose.” (Diana Butler Bass, Grounded)
We are discovering solidarity in the midst of this pandemic - amongst our neighbors, co-workers, one another, and beyond. The Spirit moves among us, extending the invitation to join the work of God in the world, giving a sense of identity and purpose.
For many of us, the Spirit probably seems the most mysterious or unknown person of the Trinity. It’s hard to be ready for Pentecost, much less attuned to the Spirit and know how to respond, when we narrowly define our experience and understanding of the Spirit. So, each week we’ll read one of the lectionary texts for the day and consider a prayer practice as we explore a different aspect of the Spirit, stretching our understanding and wrestling with our experiences. Of course, we’ll only be scratching the surface.
Today’s text is 1 Peter 1.3-9. Get comfortable. Take a few deep breaths. Take your time reading it.
What a timely text, as the world goes through such trying times. This is the good news: God graces us with mercy - kindness that meets us in our misery and affliction - standing in solidarity with us!
We are given new birth. In the Greek, these words refer to the changing of one’s mind and living life anew and in faith, conformed to the will of God. We might call this salvation by allegiance to Christ. We are born again (see John 3). This is a gift, an inheritance that will never perish. It is a faith that is refined - but not consumed - as we journey through life and encounter various trials.
This is living hope through the resurrection! In this great hope, we rejoice.
As a worshipping community, we regularly remember our salvation as we come together around the Lord’s table - confessing the lordship of Christ among us - with an unspeakable and indescribably joy. No matter where, with whom, or with how many we gather, we are connected to the universal Church - an ever-growing and deepening reality of communion with God and fellow human beings, through the Spirit.
Together, we exalt the Lord, giving thanks for a living hope. This is not a dismissal of the trails! It is finding ourselves in the presence of Christ our Lord, able to rejoice in the solidarity of God with us. And sometimes, we rejoice if even for just a moment!
It is the presence of Christ - the Spirit among us - that brings us into community, with God and one another. Oftentimes we know it because we sense it….even in the midst of misery and affliction. Our spirit groans with the Spirit and also rejoices with the Spirit in ordinary experiences of joy. Today, let’s consider the Spirit as joy - communal joy - stepping into a divine dance with the Spirit.
Given the circumstances, we might feel resistant to experiencing the Spirit as joy. And that’s ok! Together, let’s lean in and see where God takes us, also recognizing that this will not be an easy practice for most of us! Imagine how our faith might grow and how the love of Jesus might be embodied through us as we rejoice in the Lord, because as Jesus said in Matthew 18.20,
for where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.
Amen.
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Below, and in the Guide to Pentecost, is the prayer practice for the week. As you engage in this prayer practice, consider:
how might the Spirit nudge you this week to join in mission - in the reign of God in the world?
As we gather this week - virtually or in person - may we experience the Spirit as joy, even if just for a moment. God graces us with mercy - kindness that meets us in our misery and affliction - standing in solidarity with us.
Christ is Risen!
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Prayer Practice: Rejoicing Prayer and the Holy Spirit as Joy
(adapted from A Guidebook to Prayer by Morse)
Partner Experience (we’ll engage after communal liturgy on Zoom):
Spend time giving thanks - as short prayers - for each area: (1) God and the saints; (2) difficulties and trials; (3) family and friends; (4) community, nation and world. Allow enough time for reflection and verbal prayers in each area. We’re not praying for answers or guidance or intercession, simply giving thanks.
Converse about how the call to “rejoice always” might become part of daily life. How might the Spirit of Joy be inviting you to express gratitude?
Individual Experience:
Spend at least ten minutes actually giving thanks each day; make a list for each day below and name them out loud, giving thanks as specifically as possible; consider singing before or after your times of prayer:
Day one: Give thanks for God and for people who have influenced you in your faith over the years
Day two: Give thanks for difficult circumstances. This will not be easy. Make a list of the primary circumstances, reflecting on how you were shaped and how you grew in faith because of the situations. Then rejoice as authentically as you can.
Day three: Give thanks for friends and family. Think about how these relationships have influenced you, how they have loved and cared for you.
Day four: Give thanks for your neighbors, community and government. Bless them by speaking words of peace over them. This is not the time to pray about all the things that are not going right, but for rejoicing as God calls us to do.
Journal about your experience. At the end, consider sharing with a companion what you’ve learned.
At the end of the week, reflect on how rejoicing prayer is linked to praying without ceasing. How might you incorporate rejoicing into your daily life?
Kid Friendly Experience: Help your child fill out this gratitude journal each day. Have a conversation about the things to be grateful for each day and the great things that stick with us till the next day. Chat about happiness and how it is okay if we aren’t really happy all the time. Ask them, “how can we rejoice, even when we aren’t happy?”
April 12, 2020 Easter Sunday E-bulletin
*This song list can be found on Indy Trinity Worship Playlist on Spotify (click any song to get there)
COMMUNAL SONGS FOR EASTER SUNDAY
Night Has Passed/Morning Has Broken
Broken Vessels (Amazing Grace)
CALL TO WORSHIP
Read Psalm 118. 1-2, 14-24. This is the word of the Lord.
ALL: Thanks be to God.
COMMUNITY CONFESSION& LENTEN CANDLE READING
*All candles are lit today!
Leader: God is in the business of resurrection – making life from what was left for dead. But we’re easily overcome by the pain and death around us. Let us cry out to God.
ALL:God of new life, our vision for your world is too small. In the face of hurt, we get cynical. In the face of injustice, we become overwhelmed. In the face of uncertainty, we grasp for control. Give us an imagination inspired by resurrection, so that we may accept your invitation and join you in bringing about new life.
Leader: Friends, God is never done resurrecting our lives, our communities, and all of creation. We know this because Christ is risen!
ALL: He is risen, indeed! Thanks be to God! We will pursue the life God so deeply desires us to live.
SCRIPTURE READING
LORD’S TABLE LITURGY
Leader: In the wake of the cross and resurrection, we come around the Lord’s table, speaking these words to one another:
ALL: Come, if your faith is blossoming and full, and come, if it is but a tiny seed planted in your heart; come, if you always show up for this Meal, and come, if this is the your very first taste; come, if you have always walked with Christ, and come, if you have stumbled along the way. But come - for our God awaits to serve you with joy, with affirmation, with hope, with peace.
Leader: For all who seek to experience new life in Christ - eat and drink – the body of Christ broken for you and the cup of the new covenant shed for you.
COMMUNION SONG
Christ the Lord Is Risen Today
Christ the Lord is ris’n today, Alleluia!
Sons of men and angels say, Alleluia!
Raise your joys and triumphs high, Alleluia!
Sing, ye heav’ns, and earth reply, Alleluia!
Love’s redeeming work is done, Alleluia!
Fought the fight, the vict’ry won, Alleluia!
Jesus’ agony is o’er, Alleluia!
Darkness veils the earth no more, Alleluia!
Lives again our glorious King, Alleluia!
Where, O death, is now thy sting? Alleluia!
Once he died our souls to save, Alleluia!
Where thy victory, O grave? Alleluia!
THE BENEDICTION
Leader: And now, may the God of peace
ALL: who brought back again from the dead our Lord Jesus
Leader: make us complete in everything good
ALL: so that we may participate in the Kingdom,
Leader: as the Spirit works among us that which is pleasing in the Lord’s sight,
ALL: through Christ, to whom the glory be forever and ever. Amen.
The Book of Mark: Long Day’s Journey Into Night
The End of the Beginning of the Gospel
*For discussion prompts and lenten resources visit this page.
Easter Sunday: The Long Day's Journey Into Night - The End of the Beginning of the Gospel
What can be said this Easter in the face of our collective suffering? What is the good news in the midst of mounting deaths across the globe? This is the tension we’ve anticipated over the last couple weeks. Even if we’ve not voiced it, our souls cry out, “Can we wait to celebrate Easter? What if we allow ourselves to linger in the darkness that we’ve been thrown into? It just doesn’t feel like Easter.” These days, there are more questions than answers. More uncertainty. More suffering. More death.
Living in the tension is really hard as we all come face to face with death in so many forms.
Confession. I went-off on a loved one this week for digging up my strawberry plants. Yep. Strawberry plants. While this seems absolutely silly in hindsight, it hit me that I couldn’t handle more death...even of something as ordinary and insignificant as a plant. We are living in a world that is coming face-to-face with death - and for so many people - on a daily basis. It doesn’t take much to trigger our grief.
We feel that grief deep in our being as we observe Holy Week. We will never be the same. On Good Friday we remember that Jesus died. What everyone hoped for - a Messiah to deliver the people from bondage, sin, and death - was put to death. Rosemary Haughton in The Passionate God, says, “The deepest poverty is the lack of God, and only a poor God could be vulnerable enough to share that, a God who had ‘emptied himself’ and became ‘obedient even to death’, as the poor have to be, who die young at the will of others.”
The global pandemic demands that we all honestly face our deepest poverty, most profoundly experienced in our false selves that are masters at constantly attempting to self-signify, self-validate (see Richard Rohr’s daily meditation from Tuesday, April 7th), and save ourselves.
This Easter, what does it look like for God to save us?
Here we are. We have come to the end of the Gospel of Mark. It’s the end of the beginning of the gospel - the already, but not yet. And while we live in the “not yet” a lot these days, we also know that the end of the passion narrative reveals death and darkness do not have the final word. Systems of power (yes, even the Church) are turned upside down with the resurrection of Jesus. That’s pretty evident these days! It’s also just the beginning, because life in Christ is generative. God is always saving us all...from ourselves.
This is good news: the gospel - the good news - never ends. Every bit of who we are is being redeemed through the long day’s journey into night. Christ is with us! In our grief, in our suffering, Easter comes.
Let’s consider how the resurrection narrative might speak good news to us this Easter.
For a couple of reasons, let’s sit with the shorter ending of Mark’s Gospel (16.1-8). First, it’s not clear if the longer version is really authenticated as it echoes much of Matthew (which was written later and became widely popular) and patched together with pieces from Luke and other sources. More so, it gives us the opportunity to sit in the tension of the unknown, which requires faith. As Hebrews 11.1 reminds us, “faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.”
Taking your time, read Mark 16.1-8. Now, re-read it. What do you notice in this familiar story?
Unpacking the text a bit, we consider the Jewish sabbath, which ends Saturday, patterning life and preparing the people of God for the week ahead. While the women would have observed the sacred festival by abstaining from work, they were prepared. Consider this: they have prepared for the moment ahead, doing all they know to do. Having bought spices to anoint Jesus’ body, there’s no doubt in their mind that Jesus died. And on the first day of the week - Sunday - the women head to the tomb. They are ready. Even in their readiness, they go in faith, asking one another, “Who will roll away the stone for us from the entrance of the tomb?” As a quick note, Mark’s gospel account is the only one to mention this conversation among the women. Also, it was typical for small grave stones to require on the order of twenty men to roll such stones away. Even a full Roman guard of sixteen would not have sufficed. This was a major task for which the women seemed underprepared. Or were they?
This is an all too familiar scenario. Time and time again, we walk by faith and witness others doing the same - one moment, one day at a time. Living in poverty - of any kind - and in the midst of profound suffering, we realize the truth that we are not in control and have no choice but to rely on God’s provision for our very lives. Sure, we do our part, but we live in complete reliance on the Spirit to provide every need. The same is true for these women, who in faith, head to the tomb. They don’t even seem taken aback that the stone had been rolled away! When we walk by faith, such miracles are expected. Entering the tomb and encountering the angel of the Lord sitting in a place of authority (on the right side), they were alarmed as they heard the words, “He has been raised; he is not here.”
Receiving this oral proclamation of the triumph over death, they are invited to believe the good news even before seeing the risen One.
The women are then charged to go tell the disciples that Jesus is going ahead of them to Galilee, perhaps signaling a new beginning for those who had denied Jesus. Could it be true? Is Jesus alive? Is Christ really with us? Fleeing from the tomb they become a bit paralyzed by what they experienced and they remain silent. Maybe because they had no words to describe what they’d seen and heard. Maybe they didn’t think anyone would believe them (culturally, the testimony of women was already considered weak). Whatever the case, all that had been commanded of them to proclaim does get told. I can only imagine that their facial expressions and bodies conveyed a clear message to those they encountered!
There was no hiding the good news. Jesus himself sent out the proclamation of eternal salvation. The end of verse eight (the stopping point for the shorter ending of Mark’s narrative) leaves much to wonder about. But we can see where the story is headed.
Ready or not, Easter is here.
The good news cannot be contained. Death does not have the final word. The most horrible thing we can imagine - death - stares us in the face. And as we walk by faith - even with terror and amazement - we realize there is no life without death and no death without life.
We can both linger in the darkness and celebrate Easter!
The tension has always been there as we live the already, but not yet that is the Kingdom of God. We just experience it more profoundly these days. The good news is that when we come to the end, we find the beginning. Christ saves us from ourselves, claiming us as God’s beloved.
Hear the invitation to believe. Will you choose to walk by faith today, and every day, toward the assurance of things hoped for, in the conviction of things not seen?
Through us, Christ is present in this world which desperately longs to be pulled out of the deepest of poverty. Through us, Jesus proclaims salvation - the good news - to all creation.
Now go ahead and read Mark 16.9-20 (or come back to it later this week). What do you hear Jesus saying to you?
We belong to the family of God. Our lives - and dare I say, even our deaths - tell a story that is true for all, not just some: The One who became obedient, even to the point of death, is with us. The good news never ends.
Christ is risen!
(by Melissa Millis)
Palm Sunday E-bulletin
CALL TO WORSHIP
Read Psalm 118. 1-2, 19-29. This is the word of the Lord.
ALL: Thanks be to God.
COMMUNITY CONFESSION& LENTEN CANDLE READING
Leader: Listen to these words from Mark 11:1-11.Jesus, you came to us to bring peace and hope. You say to us, “follow me”. As we pray together now, forgive us for not following you.
ALL:We confess that we welcome your servant, O God, only to reject him when he picks up a cross instead of a crown. Like cloaks laid on the ground before Jesus, we pick up our faith, dust it off and put it back in the closet until we need it. We can be as stubborn and rebellious as the city which cheers your name. Save us, Redeeming God.
Silent Reflection. (Snuff out the 6th Lenten candle)
Leader: May we lay our doubts, our fears, our worries, our weariness at your feet, trusting and believing that you will forgive what is sinful, make whole our brokenness, and welcome us as sisters and brothers of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
ALL: Amen!
SCRIPTURE REFLECTION
The Book of Mark: Long Day’s Journey Into Night
*For discussion prompts and lenten resources visit this page.
LORD’S TABLE LITURGY
Leader: We gather around this table to remember the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.
ALL: As we receive what you have for us, Gracious God, may your Spirit bless the bread, break it, and give it to us so we might have the strength to hold those whose knees wobble from fear and despair. May your Spirit bless the cup, pour it, and give it to us so we can go to lift up the hopes which have been dashed to the ground. We trust that through Jesus Christ and by the power of the Spirit, you Lord will gather up all who are hurting and all that is fractured, to create a community of healing and wholeness.
Leader: The Table of the Lord is open for all who seek to experience new life.
COMMUNITY SINGING
Abide With Me
THE BENEDICTION
Leader: Go forth in the love of God.
ALL: We will take this love into unlovely parts of our lives.
Leader: Go forth in the grace of Jesus Christ.
ALL: We will look for Christ in the face of every person.
Leader: Go forth in the peace of the Spirit.
ALL: We will share this hope with our hurting world.
The Book of Mark
After exploring our posture toward, and relationship with, Scripture and claiming the story redeemed, we walked through the season of Advent. A time to recognize that the incarnation (the birth of Christ in Jesus) was redemptive. Christ is with us. In the new year, we press into what it means to be a community who gathers to discover and embody of the love of Jesus in the world, by walking through the book of Mark. This is a two part series. Part one focuses on our identity as followers of Jesus who are becoming who God is calling us to be. We ask ourselves the question, “who are we as followers of Jesus?” Part two is a journey into darkness during the season of Lent, taking a look at the shadow side of life and ourselves. We follow Jesus to the cross and ultimately to the resurrection at Easter.
As we walk through most of the gospel of Mark, we’ll consider how our practices are seen in the life of Jesus and his followers as we get into the “nitty gritty” - the particulars - of our faith as a church in the midst of our broader Church culture. We’ll consider the church defined as relationship rather than physical space and what that means as we navigate being a “people of peace” in the midst of a hostile Church culture in which it is so easy to feel removed from the family of God.
WEEK BY WEEK:
BECOMING
January 5: Intro/News of New Beginnings [1.1-15]
January 12: Calling and Sabbath Practices [1.16-28]
January 19: Healings at Home and on the Road [1.29-45]
January 26: Controversial Christ [2.1-3.6]
February 2: The Creation of a Ministering Community Part 1: Sow Far, Sow Good [4.1-20 ]
February 9: The Creation of a Ministering Community Part 2: A Legion of Demons, a Herd of Swine [5.1-20]
February 16: Tests of Discipleship [6.6b-8.38]
February 23: Transfigured Glory and Transformed Disciples [9.1-10:52]
LONG DAY’S JOURNEY INTO NIGHT
[Ash Wednesday February 26]
March 1: Challenges with the Titans [11.27-12.44]
March 8: The Temple of Doom and Impending Persecution [13.1-37]
March 15: Plot Thickens: Anointing, Sold for Silver, Preparations and a Solemn Ceremony [14.1-26]
March 22: Earthly Disaster, Kiss of Death, and Trying Circumstances in the Face of Unkindness [14.32-72]
March 29: Darkness of Justice - Roman Style - and the Adding of Insult to Injury [15.1-20]
April 5: Palm Sunday: A Grand Entrance [11.1-11]
[Holy Week Liturgy - Death at Stake, 15.21-47: During the week, folks are encouraged to read and sit in the darkness of Jesus’ death...and wait.]
EASTER: April 12: The End of the Beginning of the Gospel [16]
DISCUSSION PROMPTS:
-As you explore the book of Mark, what is capturing your attention? What new have you noticed?
-Wonder together. What is the Spirit revealing to you about identifying as a follower of Jesus?
-What pieces of faith and identity have you shed? What pieces do you sense need to be picked back up?
-What spiritual practices allow you to regularly remain connected in prayer to God, regularly? Experiment. Choose just one practice and commit to consistently engaging in it for one month. If the experiment fails, try something else. Listen, learn, grow, be gracious with yourself and those around you.
-Discuss Trinity’s practices. Where do you sense God inviting you to lean in?
-As you journey with Jesus toward the cross, in what ways might you need to be more acquainted with suffering?
-How might you befriend others who find themselves in the darkness as well?
-As you explore and read the book of Mark, what is Jesus teaching you about the terrain - the landscape of life and faith?
-What patterns do you notice emerging in your faith journey? What do you need from God right now?
RESOURCES:
The Gravity Center - https://gravitycenter.com (check out the “practice” section)
How to Sit and How to Relax by Thich Nhat Hanh
The Sacred Enneagram by Christopher Heuertz
Prophetic Lament by Soong-Chan Rah
Atheism for Lent by Peter Rollins
Ash Wednesday Liturgy with Children
Seder Supper/Good Friday Liturgy
Traditional Seder Guide and Haggadah
Outdoor Stations of the Cross Guide
Holy Week Tenebrae (from Salt)
Going Out and Coming Home: Liturgy for Healthcare Workers
Going Out
Going out into the unknown
away from the safety of this home.
Into a place short on supplies.
I offer myself -
even if reluctantly and with trepidation
to the co-worker and the stranger,
to the sick and the dying.
Jesus, you know death, so
when that dreaded darkness
stares me in the face,
carry my heart.
Spirit, breathe strength into this humble body
that I may stand
even with aching fire underfoot,
shaking with fatigue and uncertainty.
Gracious God, grant me clarity of mind
and space to feel the pain of suffering.
Help me be kind
even to me.
Not to be paralyzed or grow numb,
but to know that in caring for the sick
I offer a prayer of hope as
I meet you, Christ,
in the face of each person
known deeply. By name. By You.
Now, I ask all this because
I’m going out…
Coming Home
What I’ve seen today has been too much.
Words do not suffice.
With the change of clothes and restoring shower
I pray, Jesus, have mercy on me this hour.
That somehow I might rest in your care,
even while I ask:
How shall I engage the ones I love who know
not what these eyes have seen
nor ears have heard
nor heart that has begged,
‘where is hope?’
Merciful God, may I find hope here.
Spirit, graciously keep my family safe.
I’m coming back to the warm embrace,
if not today, maybe tomorrow,
to even smiles upon the faces
of the ones I love.
Now, I ask all this because
I’m coming home.
© Melissa Millis 2020
Palm Sunday - A Grand Entry
While we’ve been moving toward the Cross during this Lenten journey, we’re going backwards a bit for Palm Sunday to the story traditionally told on this day.
This is a moment of celebration. A moment of joyful anticipation. The man that is the Son of God has arrived and the people are so excited. They welcome him. They make grand displays of laying down their clothes for him, and the animal he rides, to walk in on. It’s a red-carpet affair. My bible gives this passage the heading, “Jesus’ Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem.” It feels like he’s won something. That we’ve won something. Maybe it’s the recognition of his value. That his teachings and miracles have finally proven socially and culturally significant.
Imagine it.
Imagine hearing about Jesus for so long. Learning about the things he has said, the things he has done. Maybe you know someone that saw him teach once. Maybe you have. Maybe you know someone that was healed or fed by him. Maybe you were. And he’s here! He’s in your town and everyone is going to see how wonderful this man is. Everyone is going to get to experience his Divine presence. This is a jubilee.
Things are going great! Any doubts you might have had about Jesus can be put away. Look at everyone around you and how they receive him. You’re a part of this incredible movement and adventure that connects to Jesus. It feels great and it’s so easy. You praise and worship without hesitation.
Okay.
I must confess that I felt angry while reading this passage. It’s supposed to be a celebration, and I feel like I’m the person against the wall at the party that refuses to join in the fun. Because I know what’s coming. I know how quickly this is going to come crumbling down. And I think I felt this way, because, like last week, when I realized that I had the capacity to play even the villainous roles in the story, I see myself in this story too. And my fickle nature is on display. My capacity for betrayal and harm just as much as joy and support.
Things aren’t hard, at this moment, for folks that support Jesus. There are those that worry about him, and plot against him, but nothing’s too out in the open yet. Jesus knows he is going to die, but it seems that others haven’t been on board with his predictions. From this scene, it’s unimaginable that Jesus would be condemned and murdered in a matter of days.
When things aren’t hard, it’s the easiest time for us to let Jesus in. I’m pretty sure I’ve heard this idea in sermons since I started going to church in junior high. And here I am, two decades later, and I’m getting angry at this story. I’m angry because it reminds me that I still put conditions on my connection to Jesus. I know that when things get hard, I’ll feel like Jesus broke his part of the deal. That I can and have turned my back on him just as decisively as I have cheered on his entry to Jerusalem.
What keeps us from turning toward Jesus when things get hard? How might we recognize this betrayal of Jesus as a betrayal of ourselves?
Christ is present in the hardest moments, just as Christ was present at this celebration. It is our work to be present to Christ in both.
This week is Holy Week. This joyful and triumphant entry into Jerusalem is headed toward a violent end. While we may not be able to feel the joy and celebration that is described in our passage from today, perhaps we can still be aware of our posture toward Jesus.
This week, imagine staying by Jesus as he walks to his death. Read Mark 15:21-47. Be reminded that when we experience darkness, we are not abandoned by Christ. Offer that to Jesus.
Notice any discomfort. Notice the moment you want to disengage, turn away, leave. It’s hard to sit with suffering. But remember that Christ does it for us.
Stay
Britney Yount
Sunday 3.29.20 Gathering E-bulletin
CALL TO WORSHIP
Read Psalm 130. This is the word of the Lord.
ALL: Thanks be to God.
COMMUNITY CONFESSION& LENTEN CANDLE READING
Leader: (Reading of Romans 8.6-11) We remember that God chooses to forgive us so we may embrace the new life and new hope offered to us in grace. Together, let us boldly confess what we have done and what we have left undone .
ALL: Generous God, we must confess how we are still bound by our pride and arrogance. We seem unable to throw off the grave clothes of our habitual sin, wearing them too comfortably. We have failed to recognize the sacrifice you have made in sending your Son to us. We cling to the desires of our flesh, rather than following Jesus’ way of love. Forgive us and reorient us to your ways.
Leader: In the depths of darkness and despite our slowness to change, God has only love for us.
(snuff out 5th of the Lenten candles)
ALL: God’s hope, love, and grace are forever. We are forgiven. Thanks be to God!
SCRIPTURE REFLECTION
The Book of Mark: Long Day’s Journey Into Night
Darkness of Justice - Roman Style - and the Adding of Insult to Injury (by Britney Yount)
Mark 15.1-20
*For discussion prompts and lenten resources visit this page.
PRAYER OF THE PEOPLE & LORD’S TABLE
Leader: Let us pray to the Lord, who is our refuge and stronghold. For the health and well-being of our nation and world, that all who are fearful and anxious may be at peace and free from worry:
ALL: Lord, graciously hear our prayers.
Leader: For the isolated and housebound, that we may be alert to their needs, and care for them in their vulnerability:
ALL: Lord, graciously hear our prayers.
Leader: For our homes and families, our school communities and young people, and all in any kind of need or distress:
ALL: Lord, graciously hear our prayers.
Leader: For a blessing on our local community, that our neighborhoods may be places of trust and friendship, where all are known and cared for:
ALL: Lord, graciously hear our prayers.
Leader: We commend ourselves, and all for whom we pray, to the mercy and protection of God.
Merciful Father,
ALL: accept these prayers for the sake of your Son, our Savior Jesus Christ.
Leader: At your table, Lord, we gather now, feeding us for the days ahead.
ALL: The bread which is broken, not only feeds us, but gives us the compassion to hear the voices of those crying in the wilderness of want, in the deserts of despair, in the forests of fear, in the hollowness of hate. The cup of grace touches us so we will not douse the Spirit, but be a people of compassion, mercy, and justice.
Leader: Together, let us experience the mystery we call faith.
*adapted from: https://www.churchofengland.org
COMMUNITY SINGING
Kyrie Eleison (Leigh Nash)
THE BENEDICTION
Leader: Let us go, creatively, “into” the world with God’s gifts.
ALL: We will carry out God’s works of mercy and life.
Leader: Let us go, creatively, “into” the world with the Bread of heaven in our hands.
ALL: We will share Christ’s grace which gives life to everyone.
Leader: Let us go, creatively, as the one body of faith and fellowship.
ALL: We will to witness to the one Spirit of hope and faith.
Darkness of Justice - Roman Style - and the Adding of Insult to Injury
I’m swimming in feelings these days, as I’m sure many of us are. As a counseling intern, I know there are no negative feelings and I spend a significant amount of time helping people name anger, sadness, and guilt. This week, I waded through all of them over the phone with my patients while also trying to manage what was my own.
Perhaps this week, you’ve felt similarly. This week may have brought weariness, grief, and challenge. I’m hopeful that it also brought moments of joy, as well. What are you feeling right now? Take a moment to notice where your thoughts and feelings are. No need to hold judgement about wherever you are, but as we read a familiar, but also emotionally charged passage, pay attention to what feelings show up for you.
When reading this passage for the first time, I found it was so easy to be angry at the crowd that condemns Jesus. At Pilate, who knows this is all a charade grounded in jealousy, but seeks to please a crowd, rather than do the right thing. I felt the anger come, and mingle with the anger that seems to have settled in these days. And then sadness, swift and forceful, as Jesus is beaten and humiliated. Grief as Christ is abused and shamed. The very injustice of a system designed to provide justice.
In that place, it was very easy to connect this story to our world. The systems of supposed justice that crucify Christ on a daily basis, encouraged by the voices of the crowd. It took no effort to get there. And I felt comforted knowing that the Pilates and crowds of the world are the ones in the wrong.
But then.
While I placed blame on these characters, I realized that I could find myself in all the roles in the story. And despite knowing what these weeks are leading to, knowing that we are walking towards death, it wasn’t till now that the heaviness of this season gripped me. I recalled the times that I made a poor choice to please others, like Pilate. I remembered hurt I have caused others, reenacting the crucifixion when I have failed to love. And I went back to the times that I have felt ashamed, and hurt more than I thought I could bear, perhaps just a tiny bit, like Jesus.
Can you place yourself in the story?
Can you imagine yourself as Pilate? Confused by what might be going on, but so concerned about what others think of you that you do what they tell you to.
What comes to mind? What does that feel like?
Can you imagine yourself as a member of the crowd? Swept up in the frenzy, condemning someone, with or without a grasp of what you’re doing. Or even ignoring the other, the Christ among you. The ways we have contributed to suffering, or been a bystander.
What comes to mind? What does that feel like?
Can you imagine Jesus? Betrayed, humiliated, hurt, afraid, confused. Can you imagine yourself in that place?
What comes to mind? What does that feel like?
I think we have all been Pilate, a crowd member, and we have all been Jesus. It strikes me as significant that we can recall and imagine what Jesus felt, as the Christ, and know that we too, carry Christ. To know that God was with him then, and is with us now.
Even as those that embody Christ, we have still been Pilate. We have still been the crowd. And, even so, God is still with us, just as present in the darkness as anywhere else. Rachel Held Evans said, “Even here, in the dark, God is making all things new.” In the dark, we are reminded of the times we have harmed and been harmed. We may have ignored these moments for a long time, we may have forgotten, we may not have realized that was what was happening at the time.
What are you feeling right now? Take a moment to notice where your thoughts and feelings are.
What if we read this story not knowing what was coming in a few weeks? No knowledge of the resurrection. We often call on God to be our lights in the darkness; to brighten our paths. But there is no light here. That doesn’t mean that God is absent, though. God is present, even when there is no light.
May we remember that we are not abandoned when we walk into the dark. May we feel the full companionship and love of God in this season. May we walk courageously toward the Cross knowing we are not alone. Amen.
Britney Yount
Sunday 3.22.20 Gathering E-bulletin
CALL TO WORSHIP
Read Psalm 23. This is the word of the Lord.
ALL: Thanks be to God.
COMMUNITY CONFESSION& LENTEN CANDLE READING
Leader: (Reading of Ephesians 5.8-14) As God’s beloved children, we will not hide our sin or remain silent, but confess them to the One who will restore us with goodness and mercy. We cry out as the psalmist did, “create in us pure hearts, O God, and renew a right spirit within us.”
ALL:Light of the World, we admit all the lengths to which we go so we might avoid you. We pay strict attention to all who break the rules, but ignore the grace which is poured out upon us. We try to box you in with boundaries we can manage, but you continue to burst forth to bring newness into the world. God of Forgiveness, open our eyes to your presence among us. As you look at our hearts, may we see those around us in a different way, not as enemies or strangers, but sisters and brothers.
Leader: God rolls away everything that stands in our way - our past, our sin, our pain, our hesitation, and reshapes us into new people living in the Light.
(snuff out 4th of the Lenten candles)
ALL: We no longer have to live in darkness; the light of Christ shines upon us. Thanks be to God!
SCRIPTURE REFLECTION
The Book of Mark: Long Day’s Journey Into Night
Earthly Disaster, Kiss of Death, and Trying Circumstances in the Face of Unkindness
*For discussion prompts and lenten resources visit this page.
THE LORD’S TABLE
ALL: In the words, actions, death and new life of Christ, we catch a glimpse of the world as it was meant to be: just and peaceful through God’s presence. As we taste salvation's joy through the bread and cup, may we be renewed in our calling to justice and righteousness, so we might go forth to be companions for all those who have lost their way.
Leader: The Table of the Lord is open for all who seek to experience new life.
THE BENEDICTION
Leader: May we find the wisdom we need.
ALL: God be with us.
Leader: May we hear the needs of those we meet.
ALL: God be with us.
Leader: May we love the life that we are given.
ALL: God be with us.
Sunday's Song (by Deb Alger)
If you missed Gathering with us on Sunday, Deb Alger shared a song. Here are the lyrics to feed your soul.
If I could find the words to say
The love the Lord feels each and every day
Like the sunshine burning bright
He brings my soul an inner light
Like the rivers flowing free
He brings to me enormous glee
And like the perpetual waves crashing on the ocean
He brings to us his deep sea devotion
And no matter how it is expressed
Knowing the Lord makes us abundantly blessed
And he wants us all to know that his love is real
It's a special kind of love we're all meant to feel
That we can't take away
No matter what we do or what we say
It's a gift that everyday the Lord above
Sends us something special to remind us of his love
And so everywhere I go there's not a single soul
That won't know that I love you Lord
Like the sunshine burning bright
He brings my soul an inner light
Like the rivers flowing free
He brings to me enormous glee
And like the perpetual waves crashing on the ocean
He brings to us his deep sea devotion
I know this is what you needed to hear
Because to the Lord you are so dear
And if he ever lost a single soul
It would bring him so much pain
So keep this song
And sing it again
Like the sunshine burning bright
He brings my soul an inner light
Like the rivers flowing free
He brings to me enormous glee
And like the perpetual waves crashing on the ocean
He brings to us his deep sea devotion
(C) Deb Alger 2020
Earthly Disaster, Kiss of Death, and Trying Circumstances in the Face of Unkindness
All of life seems to be crashing in. There’s a “cloud” that looms over us. A burden we feel. The weight of darkness. Can you feel your weary body taking steps toward the fateful cross? The world will never be the same.
Today, we continue our journey with Jesus into trying circumstances. Today, maybe you’re tired. Maybe you face very real and particular trying circumstances, denial and unkindness of even friends, or just plain lonesomeness or anxiety. The darkness is all too real these days during this global pandemic. For some, this is heaped upon already trying days, health issues, social oppression, difficult family or job situations.
The good news is Jesus knows your pain - the burden.
Take a deep breath. Notice your breath. Your body grounded to the surface upon which you sit. Get comfortable. Take your time.
Let’s read Mark 14.32-72.
Sit in silence for a moment. What catches your attention? How does Jesus’ story parallel yours? Ours?
Take a moment to name it, write it down, share it with a trusted companion.
Locating ourselves in the larger context of Mark, we are reminded that Jesus has had many good days - spending time in prayer and claiming his identity as beloved, calling disciples, preaching and teaching, walking on water (come on...how cool is that?!), feeding masses of people, healing the sick, empowering and restoring those on the margins of society to belong in community.
And...
Religious leaders have questioned his authority and his days seem to be filled with battles with those trying to preserve power and institutions - the titans. The cloud that looms becomes more and more thick these days. The shadow side of life and humanity is exposed as Jesus’ own friends deny and betray him. The chief priests and scribes (of his own faith community!) plot his death. Only small glimmers of light and hope show up, like in being anointed by a friend.
Jesus is disowned - a sense of not belonging. A death all its own.
Jesus knows this kind of death and Peter’s denial is foretold. Augustine put it this way, “God knows in us even what we ourselves do not know in ourselves. For Peter did not know his weakness when he heard from the Lord that he would deny him three times.” The shadow becomes evident. The burden is real.
Jesus takes on “friendly fire” as Judas - a disciple - leads the religious authorities to arrest him. Jesus faces oppression, condemnation, and denial within the religious system of his day.
Jesus knows your pain - the burden.
Take a look at Mark 14.32-42 again as you place yourself with Jesus in the garden, in Gethsemane.
Gethsemane means “oil press” - into an olive grove Jesus, Peter, James and John go. It’s not likely that Jesus took them with him because he was lonely, but to prepare them as he prepares himself for the events that were about to transpire. While he is deeply grieved, even to death, notice that Jesus doesn’t sit with them, but tells them to sit and pray - to stay awake - while he goes off to do the same.
Jesus knows, when we have nothing left - no answers, no certainty - we pray. Praying three times is customary for a Jew in distress (see 2 Cor. 12.8 and Daniel 6.10,13).
Nevertheless… Jesus prays, “yet, not what I want, but what you want”, consciously and deliberately walking the path before him. Jesus continues to claim his identity as the Messiah, pointing to God at work among them in the midst of what seems to be ever-growing darkness.
What do we, as a community, have to learn from Jesus as he walks through such a dark time? To be prepared for even greater darkness?
Take a moment to name it, write it down, share it with a trusted companion.
The light continues to fade as time draws closer to the cross. Facing the council, an emergency and pre-judicial meeting takes place among the Sanhedrin - those who are concerned about the temple and hence felt threatened by Jesus’ remarks about the temple (Mark ch.13). The group present tries to align stories of the witnesses in order for a guilty verdict to be pronounced. Justice was not the aim of this assembly - the collective shadow side is exposed.
These are trying circumstances. We know trying circumstances.
Jesus knows your pain - the burden.
The long day’s journey into night stares us in the face these days. Whenever the darkness pulls us toward despair, may we hear Jesus say,
Keep awake and pray that you may not come into the time of trial; the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak (Mark 12.38).
May the Spirit give us all strength, may Jesus be our constant companion, and may God’s mercy bind us together each new day. Amen.
Melissa Millis
Sunday 3.15.20 Gathering
3rd Sunday of Lent
CALL TO WORSHIP
Read Psalm 95
COMMUNITY CONFESSION& LENTEN CANDLE READING
Leader: Romans 5:21 says, “Sin ruled because of death. So also grace rules in the lives of those who are right with God. The grace of God brings eternal life because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done.” In Jesus, we find ourselves free from judgment. Knowing this, let us confess how often we do not see God in our lives, especially in how we live them.
ALL:God of eternity, you know how often we travel down the rocky roads of doubt and fear. We pester others with our worries; we hurl bitter words at those we love. We have chances to offer ourselves in service, but only give our contempt to those in need. We could share the living waters with the world, but want to store it in jars for safe-keeping. Forgive us, Fountain of Grace; turn towards us and meet us wherever we are.
Leader: In every moment, God seeks to break open our rock-hard sin, so we might be made whole. In Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, our thirst for hope and joy is quenched.
(snuff out 3rdof the Lenten candles).
ALL: Through the power of the Holy Spirit, living water breaks through the roof of our hearts, in such abundance that we don't have enough buckets to hold it all. Thanks be to God! Amen.
NOTES:
The Book of Mark: Long Day’s Journey Into Night
Plot Thickens: Anointing, Sold for Silver, Preparations and a Solemn Ceremony
*For discussion prompts and lenten resources visit this page.
THE LORD’S TABLE
ALL: We come to this table to remember Jesus, and the path toward wholeness he leads us down. His life reminds us that this path is forged through radical love for all. His death shows us that it does not ignore pain and suffering, but offers solidarity in their midst. His resurrection reminds us that it is a hope-filled path we walk.
Leader: The Table of the Lord is open for all who seek to experience love, life and hope.
COMMUNITY SINGING
Big Enough to Hold Me
THE BENEDICTION
Leader: Go forth as God's people to serve those around us.
ALL: We will honor each person as if they were our family.
Leader: Go forth as sisters and brothers of Jesus.
ALL: We will share the gifts of grace and hope with everyone we meet.
Leader: Go forth as those strengthened by the Spirit.
ALL: We will stand with others searching for God's justice in their lives.
Incarnation, Already Redemption
The Advent season marks the beginning of the Christian year, a time in which the ordinary is jolted with the Incarnation - the already redemption - which births hope, joy, peace, and love in the world. We enter into the Advent season with lenses of a story already redeemed. Our perspective of the trajectory of God’s story unfolding in the world has always revealed the greatest love, that the Word became flesh and blood and moved into the neighborhood (John 1.14, MSG). The incarnation already reveals God’s total embrace - love - of creation. As we discover and embody the love of Jesus in the world, will we see the glory of God - the incarnation - with our own eyes?
WEEK BY WEEK
During Advent, we’ll be exploring revised common lectionary passages. The lectionary is a selection of scripture readings which the global Church uses for worship, study, and retelling of the story of God.
Dec. 1: Anticipate Becoming (Isaiah 2.1-5) Isaiah 2:1-5 • Psalm 122 • Romans 13:11-14 • Matthew 24:36-44
Dec. 8: One With God (Romans 15:4-13) Isaiah 11:1-10 • Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19 • Romans 15:4-13 • Matthew 3:1-12
Dec.15 : Rejoice! (Luke 1:46b-55) Isaiah 35:1-10 • Psalm 146:5-10 or Luke 1:46b-55 • James 5:7-10 • Matthew 11:2-11
Dec. 22: Redeemed by Love (Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19) Isaiah 7:10-16 • Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 • Romans 1:1-7 • Matthew 1:18-25
Dec. 24: Christmas Eve Gathering: Incarnation, already Redemption (John 1.1-14) Isaiah 52:7-10 • Psalm 98 • Hebrews 1:1-4, (5-12) • John 1:1-14
DISCUSSION PROMPTS
-Reread the text(s) for this week. What else do you notice in the story?
-What about the birth of Jesus continues to surprise you? Imagine yourself present at the birth of Jesus (read Luke 2.1-20), naming what you notice, as the Word of God comes to dwell with us.
-In what ways do you see redemption evidenced as Jesus shows up in the particulars of the everyday (“small stages”)?
-Where is the Spirit urging you to respond to God’s grand “yes” to you? Share this with someone you trust, allowing them to walk alongside you.
-In what ways might our communal response to God’s redemptive work in the world proclaim hope, in welcoming one another as Christ has welcomed you (Romans 15.7)?
RESOURCES
Books:
The Divine Dance - Richard Rohr
Imaginative Prayer - by Jared Patrick Boyd
Poetry, Visual Art, and Daily Meditations during Advent:
(*As with any resource, you may have to wrestle with some things that just don't align with who we are. However, they are worth pulling from. Delight in what is beautiful.)
Lectionary Poetry by The Englewood Review
The Advent Project at Biola University
Music:
See the Love and May You Find a Light by the Brilliance
Oh Light by the Liturgists - http://www.theliturgists.com/oh-light;
Josh Garrels The Light Came Down
I Live
By Deb Alger
copyright 2019
At night I used to cry myself to sleep
Cause no one called me on the telephone
i'd pray the Lord my life to keep
Cause I felt left out and all alone
But as I get a little older and a little bit more wise
I start to realize that life's too short to waste on tears
Now my Grandma, she had brain surgery when I was less than one year old
I asked her how she made it through and this is the reason that she told
She said,
I lived so I could see you do the things I never had the chance to do
And I lived so you could take dance lessons and then I could watch you
I lived so you'd graduate in your cap and gown
So don't fret child, cause I don't ever wanna see you frown
Cause I live, oh I live
Now a Captain in the airforce he survived Vietnam
Drank a lot and almost shot himself with a gun
But before he pulled the trigger
He tore the gun apart
And what he said 'bout why he lived will really touch your heart
He said,
I lived so that I could navigate aircraft and fly
But when I came back to my country people thought the war was a lie
But I decided what the heck I shouldn't die
Cause maybe I'd get to see the Halley's comet next time it flew by
So I live, oh i live
Now a high school principal got cancer
With an open mind and positive attitude even when things in life went wrong
His son was soon to be married, he watched until the vows they were complete
And then that night he collapsed and then he went to sleep
And I think he'd say
I lived so I could see my son get married to his wife who is so dear
And I lived so I could see my toughest students graduate from high school each year
I lived so that I could put all my children through catholic school
And I lived so that i could abide by the golden rule
So i live, oh I live
So, I live so that I can make the world a better place
And I live so that I can put a smile on someone's face
I live to see the sunshine and rain repeat themselves again
I live to see joy and laughter and sometimes the pain
But most of all I live
Most of all I live
So that that with the hope of living I can share God's grace!