Dear friends and members of University UMC:
Months ago, I heard Anne Lamott was releasing a new book. I pre-ordered it right away and it landed at my house earlier this week. I haven’t read it cover to cover yet, but I already know it will be a treasure–as all of her books are to me. Lamott is one of those writers who helps to calm my spirit. This latest book is called “Somehow: Thoughts on Love” and it opens with these words, “My husband said something a few years ago that I often quote: Eighty percent of everything that is true and beautiful can be experienced on any ten minute walk.” I agree! I love to walk. I need to walk. For example, it’s hard for me to just sit and talk on the phone. I have to be walking. Walking–even if it’s just in my neighborhood–also calms my spirit. Sometimes I’ve even called it cheap therapy. Lamott echoes this, explaining that even in difficult times, taking a walk can open us to the beauty all around us. “Signs of love,” she writes, “wings, good-hearted people, cats (when they are in the right mood), a spray of wildflowers.”
As we continue our sermon series on Creation Care and Climate Justice, I consider the incredible gift of nature. It provides us with moments of awe as we stand in places of immense beauty. In my study and reflection, I am reminded that I am called not only to appreciate beautiful moments in nature, I am also called to do what I can to care for the earth. In our caring, may we be led to a deeper understanding that far from being separate from the earth, we are a part of it.
I am excited about our Lunch and Learn this Sunday following worship as we welcome Dr. Becca Edwards, currently on staff at Texas Impact. Dr. Edwards is a scientist and is also a candidate for ordained ministry in The United Methodist Church. She weaves together beautifully her call to the work of climate justice and her love for the church and God’s people. Along with several of our youth and children, she will also be leading us in part of the worship service.
General Conference in the life of our denomination begins this next week and so I’ve included a couple of links to videos explaining what General Conference is and how this 2024 conference came to be. Below are also some resources showing how The UMC is involved in creation care and climate justice.
What a joy to be your pastor!
Teresa
