Life is a mess. I remember twenty years ago, in a heart to heart moment with a seminary professor, confiding that my calling is simply born out of experiencing the mess of life and finding God in the midst of it saving me. I may not be that sophisticated a thinker, but right now the simple truth is that our world is broken by sin, and humans are frail and limited making a messy reality. I am a priest because I need God as a sinner, and as a frail and limited person, I rely on the hope peace of God that the world cannot give. Returning to God over and over throughout our lives no matter what is going on is the key to knowing transformational love of God. Amid the messy broken world as it is, I simply want to guide you to rest in God.
The political and social unrest is unprecedented as the health crisis continues. Rest in God City streets filled with protesters, peaceful chants, looters, police and guards; for days and days images and reporting bring with daily news causing more frustration, sorrow, anger, heartache and fear as we are more isolated then before. Return to God The news media has enormous power for shaping our understanding of what is actually going on around the world, in our country and even in our city, leaving us with emotional and strong differing points of view. Rest in God Family, work, and daily responsibilities continue for us as we maintain health and well being for ourselves and those given to us to care for. Return to God. Let your thoughts and feelings quiet and pray, O God of peace, who hast taught us that in returning and rest we shall be saved, in quietness and confidence shall be our strength: By the might of thy Spirit lift us, we pray thee, to thy presence, where we may be still and know that thou art God; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. My role as your priest is to hold a space for our whole community to connect with God who alone saves us all. More than ever we need our religion to comfort us and guide us in what is ours to do. Find resources that work for you to connect with God every day. If you need help I am available to support you. With you on the journey Lisa+
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AuthorThe Rev. Lisa Senuta is the Rector of the Episcopal Church of St. James the Less in Northfield, Illinois. Archives
January 2021
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