On the morning of his fourth birthday, our little one woke asking for The Very Hungry Caterpillar. The next day was Sunday again. The caterpillar ate through one nice green leaf, and after that he felt much better. Now he wasn’t hungry anymore, and he wasn’t a little caterpillar anymore. He was a big, fat caterpillar.
Read MoreRenée asked me if I would write something personal for the pastor’s note—something I have been thinking about recently. I have been thinking a lot during this strange self-isolating era. And, I will write on some of those thoughts in my future FB posts. But, I thought—OK, why not be really personal. Thank you NCF
Read MoreThe disciples were afraid. That their own leaders would betray them. They had a common enemy- the occupying Roman government- but different ideas about how to survive. Or thrive. Or be faithful. They were a people divided. All living in fear of the same threat. But danger affects people differently, depending on access to resources.
Read MoreAs Passover approaches, Vern Fein shares a poem with us. Reminding us that blessed looks different at various points in time. Sending love and prayers. -Renée THE UN-CHOSEN The Chosen peopleun-chosen for one night.Huddled in the darkno firelistened for wingsany rustleprayed for lamb’s bloodto protect themfrom the Angel of Death. Did they hear the wailsclutch
Read MoreThe time is ripe for bad theology. Cringe-worthy Christian statements pitting science against faith. I am relieved to read the letter drafted by Rabbi Alan Cook on behalf of the Interfaith Alliance of Champaign County. His heart, his wisdom, and his leadership comfort and cheer me. I am grateful to be part of this faith community. So
Read MoreIn this time of uncertainty and fear, we are sustained by stories of those we love. May this reflection from Barbara Linder- and the children’s art and voices- lift our spirits and help us find our way. -Renée The Lord is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear?The Lord is the stronghold of
Read MoreI relish a few moments of silence. I hear the birds chirping in the dark. My household still sleeps. With coffee and Bible, journal and pen, I feel most like myself. At home. Go to school. Leave for work. I’ve spent the last six months explaining to a child that *everyone* does this. We all
Read MoreAs I read again Carolyn Vance’s poem below, I feel how well these words articulate the difficulty of this Lenten journey. In our unknowing, may we trust the One who calls our name. -Renée On Unemployment Disorienting freedom,Unknown pathways,Caminos to who knows where.The way unclear,The goal wrapped in mystery,Time of wandering. How long will I trek in
Read MoreSeeds sprout in basements under grow lights. I spotted a crocus in my neighbor’s yard this morning. The sun brings warmth, green, and much-needed Vit D. Not really a gardener, I appreciate the weekly analysis from my local farmer. Who reminds us that water from a hose can never do what rain and snow accomplish.
Read MoreTomorrow begins my favorite season. There is jittery anticipation. Like the first basketball practice or class with an esteemed professor. Will I make the cut? Can I keep up? With the running, the writing, the standards that encourage us to rise above what we thought possible. Each Lent holds, for me, a new challenge. An
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