The Blog

Where do you find rest?  Is there a place you go to get away from it all?  When have you found opportunities to refresh, renew, and rejuvenate?  What times have you step away from the stresses and demands of life?  Those moments and places are precious, and the people we share those moments with are dear. The disciples in today’s

O God, When I am overwhelmed with the world around me, When are so many who need care and support, When the demands of life are just too much, Help me to step away.  To take time apart from the demands and the needs of others. To remember that I am also your child, in need of rest and care,

30 The apostles gathered around Jesus, and told him all that they had done and taught. 31 He said to them, “Come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat. 32 And they went away in the boat to a deserted place by themselves.  weekly prayer |

There are some wild stories in the bible.  No real surprise there – since the bible tells the story of God’s journey with God’s people, it is reasonable to expect sometimes they found their ways into some outlandish situations and circumstances.  This week we hear that John the Baptist was put to death by Herod because his wife was angry

Faithful God, When I hear heart-breaking stories, remind me of your persistent love. When I struggle with harshness and hatred around me, show me your compassion. When I ache to find true connection and community, guide me to others who live your love. When I wonder how to use my own power, point me to your example. Help me to

14 King Herod heard of [the disciples’ preaching,] for Jesus’ name had become known. Some were saying, “John the baptizer has been raised from the dead; and for this reason these powers are at work in him.” 15 But others said, “It is Elijah.” And others said, “It is a prophet, like one of the prophets of old.” 16 But when Herod heard of it, he said,

I have a sister four years older than me.  Even though we have both been adults for a long time, she still refers to me as her “little sister.”  She probably always will.  My sister has always struggled a bit to realize that I have grown up. The image of who I was early in our relationship is hard for

Loving God, You have known me from the very beginning. You know me better than I even know myself. You see my strengths and my struggles. You see how I can serve you and the world. You love me just as I am, while you invite me to grow. Send me out into new challenges with hope and courage. Use

1 [Jesus] came to his hometown, and his disciples followed him.2 On the sabbath he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were astounded. They said, “Where did this man get all this? What is this wisdom that has been given to him? What deeds of power are being done by his hands! 3 Is not this the carpenter, the son

Jairus was a leader in the local religious community and his daughter was terribly ill. Perhaps he’d seen Jesus in person, teaching and healing. Maybe Jairus had only heard others talk about Jesus and his power to heal. There aren’t any clear cues in the gospel passage to tell us what led Jairus to come to Jesus, falling at his