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Dear beloved Passing the Peace Readers, 

When theologian Karl Barth was interviewed by Time Magazine in 1966, he said: “Take your Bible and take your newspaper, and read both. But interpret newspapers from your Bible.” I’m sure any of you who have heard me preach before know that I operate from a similar philosophy - our faith is not just a static inheritance but something we live into every day by paying close attention to the world around us. See, I’m part Barth but also equal parts Mary Oliver, the poet well known for writing: 

“Instructions for living a life.

Pay attention.

Be astonished.

Tell about it.”

Each week when we gather for worship, we bring into the sanctuary the current events happening in our homes, local communities, and all over the world. These past few weeks have been one of those times where it seems there is a flurry of Big Feelings and Intense Emotions following the death of Charlie Kirk - a man who was shot and killed at a university in Utah during a public event. How do we read this news with our Bibles in hand? How do we prayerfully prepare for the occasion where this very hot topic comes up in conversation? 

This newsletter is not going to be a full sermon on the topic but a gentle invitation that if you need someone to talk through the noise, the multiple viewpoints, and discern what response feels truest to your own faith - you can always reach out. Sometimes, more than another social media post, a conversation and a cup of tea can help us feel more connected and at peace as we try to make sense of the chaotic times we are now living in. There is much pain in the world. May your discipleship empower you to offer healing, peace, and compassion to all those you meet and also call you to extend that love to those you have yet to meet, or whose stories you have yet to learn and understand. 

 

In the mess, the chaos, the uncertainty, or these troubled times, may the Peace of Christ be with you, 

As we mourn the cost of senseless violence - on school campuses, in warzones, and so many other places, may the Peace of Christ be with you, 

In the courageous conversations you are called to have this week, may the Peace of Christ be with you, 

 

Yours in Christ, 

Rev Michiko