Sunday Devotion

Welcome to the Sunday Devotion. I write this after having traveled across many states over the last three days, and as I unpack my suitcase, in an act of mindfulness, I also unpack the stress of my travel, stretching out the cramps in my shoulders, releasing the stiffness in my muscles, and focusing my mind on the enjoyment of my destination. Come with me and unpack the cares and stress of your last few days and focus on where you are at this moment.
 
As I looked at the worship resources for this Sunday’s worship service, the suggested Call to Worship really spoke to my heart. I want to share it with you and reflect on each part together.
""Leader: “We believe in the gathered community of faith. Through it, we learn to love and to value life. In it, we find acceptance.”
People: We believe."
 
On this Sunday morning, I will be at a Community of Christ other than the one I call home. As I walk into that building, I know I will feel comfort and love within those walls, because I know I will be in a community of faith, my community of faith. The first time I visited a Community of Christ congregation while on a weekend trip, I was surprised to be welcomed so warmly. Now I know I can expect it and I look forward to it. You don't have to know anybody there, but there is a very good chance that you'll find someone who knows someone you know. Community of Christ is a family across all the miles. Yes, I believe in the gathered community of faith where I learn about love and the value of life, where I find acceptance. Have you ever had an experience like that?
 
"Leader: “We believe in the wholeness of life. We are not intended to be split and divided as persons. We are created and set in a fractured world, so that we can bring it to wholeness as well.”
People: We believe."
 
We believe in the wholeness of life. One of the descriptions of Community of Christ I love to share is that we are a peace and justice church. Our Enduring Principles point us toward valuing Worth of All Persons, Unity in Diversity, and Blessings of Community. We work toward goals which value resolution over being entrenched in the division. In Doctrine and Covenants 163:3a-b we are told, “You are called to create pathways in the world for peace in Christ to be relationally and culturally incarnate. The hope of Zion is realized when the vision of Christ is embodied in communities of generosity, justice, and peacefulness.
   Above all else, strive to be faithful to Christ’s vision of the peaceable Kingdom of God on earth. Courageously challenge cultural, political, and religious trends that are contrary to the reconciling and restoring purposes of God. Pursue peace.”
 
"Leader: We believe in one God expressed in three ways: Creator, Redeemer, and Spirit. When we worship one, we acknowledge all. When we are troubled, God responds.  
People: We believe."
 
Creator, Healer, Spirit of Wisdom, Spirit of Love? What names for God do you use? 
How has the presence of God helped you through troubled times? When I have felt broken, just knowing that God is there and walks beside me helps me continue to put one foot in front of the other. Finding or recalling scripture bolsters me and provides a handrail for added strength. From Isaiah 41:10 we hear God say, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you.” How does God give you strength, peace,  forgiveness or hope in troubled times? 

"Leader: We believe in the flow of life, from birth through death into everlasting life. We cannot capture the wonder of life before God with explanations. We only know God is with us.
People: We believe."
 
What is your experience with God? The Bible teaches that “faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see” (Hebrews 11:1). How do you feel when you feel God's presence? As you have experienced God in your life, how do you describe that experience?
 
Each day as you travel your journey in life, may you seek God’s presence. And when you feel the joy of God within you, or the peace and comfort of the Holy Spirit, respond and say,
                                           “I believe.”
Author: Bonnie Barber