Living Well: Collages from the Center

Welcome!

2011-12-23T09:09:00.001-08:00

This blog has moved to the new home for Living Well Ministries. Join the journey there!

Living from the Inside Out

2011-04-08T15:02:00.000-07:00

Food for thought...

Living from the inside out does not mean living individualistically or in a self-serving manner. Living from the inside out means living what Glenn Hinson calls a "contemplative lifestyle."

For me, it means taking care of the temple of this life: my body and the circles of intimacy and responsibility in which I am embedded. It means, also, spending time in prayer, study, meditation and accountable relationships so that I am ever on the journey of greater congruency and authenticity.

As above, so below. As within, so without. In the bulb there is a flower...

Ash Wednesday

2011-03-09T15:33:00.000-08:00

This year I commit, again, to the abundant spiritual life just hinted at in Isaiah 55.

What if Lent were about feasting (as in the marvelous fable Chocolat?)on truly satisfying things: meditation, reconciliation, courageous models, fragile connections.

What if notions of "giving up" were infused with the tenderness of Isaiah 55, not the trappings of self-hating and embattled Christian tradition?

Then, I suppose, we would actually really have the fragile wisdom and fortitude to walk with Jesus to Jerusalem...

Angels all Around

2011-02-10T15:32:00.000-08:00

I wrote about this recently in my Living Well Together newsletter. All I can say is... I am soo incerdibly inspired by the GOOD WORK that so many loving hearts are creating together in this world. Turn off the 6:00pm news and tune in.

Woven and Not Yet Complete

2011-01-12T09:18:00.000-08:00

have been very mindful this week of feeling like a tapestry. a project of God's. a deep-seated gratitude for all the places and people i've been. a calm appreciation and anticipation as the new unfolds.

byron katie calls it "loving what is."

i call it that. and, trusting.

Kata of Forgiveness

2010-03-15T14:41:00.000-07:00

Ki haku
Truth unfolding opening
Grief constricting focusing
Pain emerging releasing

Shapes endless
Countless
One
Face:

Betrayal
Attack
Abandonment
Blocks
Vertigo

Ren ma
Grounding trust: worth
Claiming space: joy
Mastering anger: now

Rhythms unite
Offense
Defense
Practice:

Insight
Connection
Boundaries
Peace

Shuchu Ryoku
Surging peace work
Striking opponents true
Returning center free

No mind
Relaxes
Responds
Sei:

Compassion
Integrity
Reconciliation
Letting Go

Kata
Truth advancing
Breath guiding
Form containing
Power

Forgiving
Ki haku
Ren ma
Shuchu Ryoku
Osu!

“Forgiveness is taking into full account the extent of the harm done, and choosing to will the well-being of all the victims and all the violators.” --Marjorie Suchocki

I wrote this poem for the community of Thousand Waves Martial Arts and Self-Defense for their upcoming newsletter. It was inspired by the forgiveness film and workshop on forgiveness I led there in January.

Hang Out with Friends

2010-03-09T14:36:00.000-08:00

A TERRIFIC EXCERPT FOR TONIGHT'S SPIRITUALITY GROUP:

"Jesus stays off the best-stressed list by nourishing in his soul a sense of belonging. He does not dam the rush and flush of feelings, but enters into relationships fully and participates wholly in life-- whether in their pain or pleasure, bitterness or blessing, trials or triumphs. Jesus has eyes to see, ears to hear, and a heart to break. Jesus invests in friendships..."

-- from The Jesus Prescription for a Healthy Life by Len Sweet

We'll be studying Sweet's book february 23-March 23, 2010. 7pm Meditation/7:30pm Study/Discussion. 6554 N. Rockwell Street, Chicago.

Guest House

2010-02-15T14:47:00.000-08:00

I have rediscovered this poem by Rumi recently, and have shared it with a number of clients who are really appreciating what it invites: an equanimity and hospitality in how we live each day. Today, I hope you'll breathe deeply enough, and regularly enough, to welcome and honor all that comes...

This being human is a guest house
Every morning a new arrival.
A joy, a depression, a meanness,
some momentary awareness comes
as an unexpected visitor.
Welcome and entertain them all!
Even if they are a crowd of sorrows,
who violently sweep your house
empty of its furniture,
still treat each guest honorably.
He may be clearing you out for some new delight.
The dark thought, the shame, the malice,
meet them at the door laughing,
and invite them in.
Be grateful for whoever comes,
because each has been sent
as a guide from beyond.

-- Rumi

Reverence and Communion

2010-01-30T07:08:00.001-08:00

All week I've been coming across readings which make of communion a way of life... here is the latest, thanks to Spirituality and Practice's facebook post. I'm investigating which Dossey book it's in.

There is only one valid way to partake of the universe -- whether the partaking is of food and water, the love of another, or, indeed, a pill. That way is characterized by reverence -- a reverence born of a felt sense of participation in the universe, a kinship with all and with all matter." (Larry Dossey)

Epiphany and Heart-Seeing God

2010-01-22T06:14:00.000-08:00

Matthew 5:43-47, paraphrased

‘You have heard that it was said,
“You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.”
But I say to you,

Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,
so that you may know what it is like to come from the Source of us all;
for our Source calls the sun to rise on the evil and on the good,
and sends rain on the righteous and on the unrighteous.

For if you love only those who love you, what heart-space do you have?
Do not even the tax-collectors negotiate their fair share?

And if you greet only your brothers and sisters with honor,
how does that prepare you to be agents of blessing?

Do not all the tribes of this world do the same?
Be completely at ease with all, therefore,
as our heavenly Source demonstrates.

-- paraphrase by Rev. Jacki Belile for Women in Ministry Meditation, September 2009.

To See As God Sees

2010-01-13T03:47:00.000-08:00

To See As God Sees

A brother went to see Abba Moses in his hermitage at Scetis and begged him for a word. And the old man said: “Go and sit in your cell, and your cell will teach you everything.”

What is right in front of us we see least. We take the plants in the room for granted. We pay no attention to the coming of night. We miss the look of invitation on a neighbor’s face.

We see only ourselves in action and miss the cocoon around us. As a result, we run the risk of coming out of every situation with no more than when we went into it.

Learning to notice the obvious, the colors that touch our psyches, the shapes that vie for our attention, the looks on the faces of those who stand before us blurred by familiarity, blank with anonymity— the context in which we find our distracted selves—is the beginning of contemplation. Awareness of the power of the present—monastic mindfulness—is the essence of the contemplative life and common to all contemplative traditions. “Oh, wonder of wonders,” the Sufi master says, “I chop wood. I draw water from the well.” I live in the present, in other words. I know that what is, is the presence of God for me. “The first step of humility is to ‘keep the reverence of God always before our eyes’ and never forget it,” the Rule of Benedict says.

Awareness puts us into contact with the universe. It mines every relationship, unmasks every event, every moment, for the meaning that is under the meaning of it. The question is not so much what is going on in the room, but what is happening to me because of it? What do I see here of God that I could not see otherwise? What is God demanding of my heart as a result of each event, each situation, each person in my life? Etty Hillesum, Jewish prisoner in one of Hitler’s concentration camps, saw the goodness in her German guards. That is contemplation, that is the willingness to see as God sees. It does not change the difficulty, the boredom, the evil of a pernicious, an insidious situation, perhaps, but it can change the texture of our own hearts, the quality of our own responses, the depth of our own understandings. Without awareness, enemies stay forever only enemies and life is forever bland.

–from Illuminated Life by Joan Chittister (Orbis).

Invoking Imago Dei

2009-12-29T09:35:00.000-08:00

Enjoy with me this beautiful poem from the newsletter of Benetvision.

Imago Dei

Come, oh come,
but not this time as a babe
raised up in the image of a man.

Come in beautiful strength,
in loving connection.
Come upon the world flourishing in boldness,
bearing branches in full flower.

Come, oh come
not bending to obedience
or sacrificing for our guilt.

Come weaving every color,
singing every tongue,
nourishing us,
dancing usinto a world of peace.

Come, oh come
flashing brilliance
courage never waning,
compassion, companion.
Redeem your long forgotten self,
your ancient image.
Come, WOMANSPIRITwholly one,
Come, oh come.

Sr. Ellen Porter, OSB From Some Small Flower of Honesty

Convicted in Advent! A Static Belief or Dynamic...?

2009-12-11T09:09:00.000-08:00

From Brian D. McLaren (see his facebook note)...

The religion that was ostensibly founded by a nonviolent man of peace had now embraced the very violence he prohibited. The religion that grew in response to a man who was tortured and killed by the Roman Empire was now torturing and killing others in league with that empire. Dynamic faith that moves mountains was out; static belief that burns or banishes heretics was in. Catalytic faith as an agent of social transformation was out; codified belief as a tool of social control was in. And that kind of belief has stayed “in” ever since. (12)
From A New Kind of Christianity: Ten Questions That Are Transforming the Faith (available February 9, 2010)

God... a cross between Santa Claus and Superman?

2009-12-08T13:13:00.000-08:00

This is a quote from Nevada Barr's book Enlightenment - Hat by Hat (which I know nothing about it). It's quoted by Nancy Boyle in her article in the Lumunos newsletter.

"As long as I thought of God as a cross between Superman and Santa Claus with cell phone and myself as a lobbyist for my own needs, I was doomed to atheism, confusion and resentment... The sea change has been in my internal vision of God..."

What is the character of your God? Of your conversations with God?

An Advent with all our Senses...

2009-12-08T08:41:00.000-08:00

An Advent Reflection
from Kirkridge Retreat Center
December 6, 2009

A reflection for the second week of advent by Peter Pearson

Advent is my favorite season! That may sound odd but it's true. For me Advent, my prayerful experience of Advent, is richer and deeper than any other season of the church year. Could it be that I just like the music or the readings from the prophets or the sense of wonder in the waiting or the glow of the sunsets that happen at this time of year?

Maybe it's all of these and more. It's tied to my memories of a child's anticipation before Christmas and that same child's terror of the readings that are offered this time of year which sound like pages from science fiction. It makes me remember the time when the kids on my block were sitting around one summer's day singing all the songs we could think of and that "O Come, O Come Emmanuel" was one of our favorites. It helps me return to the time of the young seminarian whose community prepared for an evening of carols and lessons in the cathedral in mid-December and the prayerful calm of that night or of all the other Advent nights spent praying with the monks at the monastery that once was my home and of the rose incense we burned only at this time of year. It brings me to times, more recent and the prayers and the song and the silence and the waiting. And above all, the profound sense of wonder.

There is also the memory, or should I say the memories of icons of the Virgin and Child wrapped in a tender embrace before which a small candle burns. Sweetly intimate and yet filled with transcendent power, often this image is the only visible thing in a church or chapel or cell in the darkness of these nights. It is a gentle glow illuminating a gentle image. Soft, warm, inviting.

Somewhere in the midst of this embrace is expressed one of the foundational truths of our faith: God is not distant, God is with us. Advent is a time that is rich in experience for all of my senses. It anticipates the fullness of the incarnation that we will celebrate in just a little while. It is the longing of the human heart for more even as it already tastes what it hungers for. God is with us and has entered into the material world, sanctifying it and giving it the ability to point to the One who first created.

Take the time this Advent to listen to the silence,
to smell the echoes of heaven,
to see the invitation all around you,
to laugh at the playful paradox,
to immerse yourself in the richness
of this barren time of joyful anticipation.
Just as things seem darkest and most hopeless,
a light dawns among us.
How marvelous!

Peter Pearson

Many thanks to Peter Pearson for this week's advent message!

Peter will lead an icon painting retreat at Kirkridge Jan. 28-31, 2010.

Program: A Brush with God: Icon Painting Retreat
During this retreat experience we will paint, pray and study together the ancient art of Byzantine Iconography but using the medium of acrylic paints. There is no artistic ability or prior experience required and each participant will go home with their own icon that will be created during this retreat following step by step instructions.

Friday 6:30 dinner thru Sunday lunch
Cost: $540

Peter Pearson has been painting icons for forty years and teaching for twenty. He is the rector of Saint Philip's Episcopal Church in New Hope, PA, a member of an ecumenical monastic community (Community of Solitude), and the author of the popular text on icon painting, A Brush with God.

Advent and Anxiety

2009-12-07T08:26:00.000-08:00

My friends at beliefnet.com remind me of the constant anxiety preoccupations to which we are vulnerable in the birthing processes of our lives. Check out Therese Borchard's thoughts about managing anxiety this holiday season.

... and join me in welcoming the stories of Mary, Joseph, shepherds, magi and an infant Jesus into your soul. We are surrounded by a cloud of witnesses who join us with understanding, encouragement and transcendence.

Preparing the Way of the Lord

2009-12-06T07:33:00.000-08:00

This advent... I return to this space for journaling, reflecting, connection. Pondering much in my heart today. This weekend's forgiveness workshop, oriented around this powerful passage, was richly rewarding. I cling today to Emmanuel, the promise that God-with-us is so true, so unshakeable, so vastly beyond our understanding. When we accept this as Reality, all manner of obstacles to Life will be dissolved within and between us. Forgiveness will bring an experience of the salvation wrought with such grace (It is finished!). Our work is to dismantle the judgments, the prejudices, the circumstances which block our Divine knowing of this Good News.

Let us, with John the Baptist, commence with "preparing the way..."

Zechariah’s Prophecy

Luke 1:67 Then his father Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke this prophecy: 68‘Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he has looked favourably on his people and redeemed them. 69He has raised up a mighty saviour* for us in the house of his servant David, 70as he spoke through the mouth of his holy prophets from of old, 71 that we would be saved from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us. 72Thus he has shown the mercy promised to our ancestors, and has remembered his holy covenant, 73the oath that he swore to our ancestor Abraham, to grant us 74that we, being rescued from the hands of our enemies,might serve him without fear, 75in holiness and righteousness before him all our days. 76And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High; for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways, 77to give knowledge of salvation to his people by the forgiveness of their sins. 78By the tender mercy of our God, the dawn from on high will break upon* us, 79to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.’

The Essential of Happiness

2009-12-01T08:45:00.000-08:00

The essential of happiness,” Allan K. Chalmers wrote, “is having something to do, something to love and something to hope for.” At the very outset of the liturgical year, the church presents a model of them all: a Child who lives only to do the will of God, who opens His arms to love the entire world, who lives in hope of the coming of the reign of God by giving His life to bring it. At the very outset of the year, we are given the model of how to be happy.

–from The Liturgical Year by Joan Chittister (Thomas Nelson)

People, Look East

2009-11-30T08:31:00.000-08:00

I loved this song which we sang at Lake Street Church on the first Sunday of advent. The tune "put me in the mood." The words in verses 2 and 3 especially moved me: reminders that there is a work of God in "giving up our strength" or in ceasing/guarding the nest. Any poetic metaphors which help us to take seriously the demands of discipleship WHILE AT THE SAME TIME reminding us of necessary seasons of cessation, waiting, preparing, entrusting God to be God... well, those "put me in the advent mood" too. I pray, actually, to live this way all year.

People, Look East

Words and Music: Eleanor Farjeon (1881-1965), 1928MIDI / Noteworthy Composer

1. People, look east. The time is near
Of the crowning of the year.
Make your house fair as you are able,
Trim the hearth and set the table.
People, look east and sing today:
Love, the guest, is on the way.

2. Furrows, be glad. Though earth is bare,
One more seed is planted there:
Give up your strength the seed to nourish,
That in course the flower may flourish.
People, look east and sing today:
Love, the rose, is on the way.

3. Birds, though you long have ceased to build,
Guard the nest that must be filled.
Even the hour when wings are frozen
God for fledging time has chosen.
People, look east and sing today:
Love, the bird, is on the way.

4. Stars, keep the watch. When night is dim
One more light the bowl shall brim,
Shining beyond the frosty weather,
Bright as sun and moon together.
People, look east and sing today:
Love, the star, is on the way.

5. Angels, announce with shouts of mirth
Christ who brings new life to earth.
Set every peak and valley humming
With the word, the Lord is coming.
People, look east and sing today:
Love, the Lord, is on the way.

"People, Look East" was written by Eleanor Farjeon (1881-1965) and was first published as "Carol of Advent" in Part 3 of "Modern Texts Written for or Adapted to Traditional Tunes" in The Oxford Book of Carols, 1928. Farjeon, a native of London, was a devout Catholic who viewed her faith as "a progression toward which her spiritual life moved rather than a conversion experience." (The Presbyterian Hymnal Companion, p. 323) She achieved acclaim as an author of children's nursery rhymes and singing games, and is best remembered for her poem "Morning Has Broken." BESANÇON, an ancient carol, first appeared in Christmas Carols New and Old, 1871, as the setting for "Shepherds, Shake Off Your Drowsy Sleep," and was titled CHANTONS, BARGIÉS, NOUÉ, NOUÉ.

Waiting for a Mentor

2009-05-03T22:39:00.000-07:00

Regular readers of this blog may have followed Reverend Jacki’s sacred journey toward becoming a certified coach. This reflects a commitment on her part to enter into professional relationships with clients who will benefit from her as she anchors their growth.

The kind of support coaches, ministers, teachers, and others offer is valuable. We make a conscious choice to hire, work with, and grow with these professionals. Each time we show up for ourselves by fulfilling our commitments to participate in coaching, worship, class, or other enrichment activities, we send a powerful “yes” to the universe. The universe answers back with all kinds of shiny sparkly stuff that we get to share with our mentor and others. As we share, we become available to move into mentorship roles.

This is a good space to thank Jacki for taking this step and to bless her excellent effort. The powerful influence she is is no surprise to the universe, but the form her new endeavor will take has my attention. I’m pretty sure there’s going to be some shiny sparkly stuff, and I am here ready to catch some.

Just as Jacki has concluded her training so she can be available to serve in this new way, I have had new opportunities to move into a career of teaching. This is a welcome change, as I far prefer helping people avoid or solve financial challenges to doing legal work. Although acting as a lawyer gives me an opportunity to help, my true talent is in teaching. Like everyone else, I get tied up in knots I construct of my own fears. I tell myself I cannot support myself as a teacher and that my message of abundance and joy will have an unexpected ending wherein I die broke and living in a paper box. I do my work and recognize that this is untrue, but sometimes god decides to undo some of the knots and give me a little head start in my return to knowing abundance.

The other day, god stepped into a line waiting in the clerk of court’s office. Being clever, though, god did not say, “Hi! I’m god. Cut it out with the broke-paper-box routine. There’s a swine flu thing coming up, and a bunch of people need reassurance and stuff.” Instead, god looked confused and asked if she was in the right line.

“What’ve you got?” I said, by rote. I was hot, tired, and capable of directing a lost non-lawyer to the right line without making any human connection at all.

God snatched her paperwork to her chest. She was not very forthcoming about the nature of her legal matter, demanding I give an easy answer without her doing any work. (The “good for the goose is good for the god” aspect of this is obvious--now!)

Finally, we ascertained god was right where she needed to be.

“It has been a while. I haven’t practiced law for six years.”

“You were a lawyer?” (Who knew?!)

“Yes. I got tired of it. I decided to make a go of it on my investments. I did fine. I don’t miss the money. I thought I would, but I don’t.”

Right then and there, I poured my heart out: I’d rather teach. I fear the loss of income. I might die, you know, broke and living in a box.

God didn’t preach. Instead, she just smiled and told me how much she enjoyed waking up and knowing her day was hers. She told me about her flower garden. Then, when the clerk called my number, she whispered, “Smile.”

I ran from counter to counter, filed my paperwork, and left the clerk’s office.

You-know-who was in the elevator. She touched my arm as we parted ways in the lobby.

“Enjoy your garden,” I said.

“And you enjoy . . . whatever it is you enjoy.”

Our journeys are sacred. Sometimes they take us to a planned activity, but sometimes enlightenment is spontaneous.

Show up to your coaching appointment, celebration service, or class. Enroll in the abundance classes Reverend Jacki and I are teaching. Enjoy food, fellowship, and formal growth. These activities are opportunities to slow down, connect, and listen to the voice of god in us and in and though ministers, coaches, and teachers. These moments prepare us for the other moments, for the opportunity to recognize god as, in, and through the person next to us as we go through what seems like an unpleasant daily task.

Abundance

2009-04-12T09:12:00.000-07:00

Reverend Jacki’s blog title is a challenge to us to live with a paradox: a rich life is chaotic, seeming to be pieced together into a collage. We hope the diverse parts form a collage that is meaningful to us. At the same time, she refers to an “undivided life.” We recognize the sacred nature of each aspect of life. We are challenged to examine our illusions of divisions between people, places, ideas, preferences, time, and space.

As we approached Easter, I faced my own challenge. There weren’t enough eggs in my basket for my taste. The “reasons” were many: slow-paying clients, a lengthy illness just at the time I left my job hoping to reinvigorate my private law practice, and a recent decision to accept some worthy cases on contingency (delaying my payment until the conclusion of the case).

The truth inside me knew what was happening: I was following Jesus through a perceived desert, pretending I didn’t know how easily water turns into wine. Yet, I persisted in digging around through the plastic Easter grass in my basket, digging for the really good candy—frustrated it wasn’t there. I vacillated between grudgingly sucking on my off-brand chocolates and folding my arms, stubbornly waiting for the peanut-butter filled egg.

Spirit, knowing me better than I know myself, knew it was time for THE SPIRITUAL TRUTH BIG GUN. I needed a good dose of Capital-T Truth, the kind that leaves me in awe of god and the universe.

Where better to hide truth than in a recycled Wal-Mart shopping bag?

This is exactly what my mother did on my visit home last weekend.

“We found some old birthday cards and stuck them in here,” Mom commented nonchalantly.

I groaned a little—I am not a big keeper of cards and have enough challenges with clutter without 39-year-old missives on my desk.

I thought of the cards late one night during the week. David (my partner) and I were watching In Her Shoes, a movie that features a reunion between a grandmother and granddaughters after they find lost birthday cards. I went to the kitchen and got the bag.

The cards were not casual greeting cards. They were cards from my second birthday. Since I was adopted, this was the first birthday I had spent with my family. Money fell from card after card, along with love pouring across the decades.

There were also cards from later years, with half-dollars, silver dollars, and so on carefully included with each.

An overwhelming amount of the money was from my Grandpa. Grandpa encouraged me to pursue a formal education, loved me through all I did, and has stayed with me since his death when I was 15. The sense of loss I felt when he made his transition has followed me through life. Despite knowing that his energy is alive and that his life unfolded perfectly, I have felt a pain at not having him with me through this life.

One especially precious missive is a rare sample of my Grandpa’s own handwriting on plain note paper tucked in with a small bill in a bill protector.

“To Kelli, with love, from Papaw.”

Here we are again, weaving this part of the collage into this undivided life:

“I have all I need. I have all the love of the universe and all the abundance of the universe, right here, right now. Nothing is hidden under the Easter grass, and nothing good has been kept out of my basket. It is all mine, right here, right now.”

Taking Action for Abundance (Guest Post by Kelli Dudley)

2009-04-04T04:10:00.000-07:00

I'm thrilled to be learning and working with Kelli Dudley, who shares a second phenomenal reflection on financial health below. Together, we're leading a seminar called "Financial Wellness: Tips for Abundance Actions" on May 9 from 9am-1:30pm. Click here for event information.

-- Jacki

Taking Action for Abundance by Kelli Dudley

In my last post, I mentioned that debt may not be all bad. If you have debt, you incurred it buying something you needed at the time. The debt enabled you to reflect some god-quality you were seeking at that time—maybe a good meal, maybe a place to live.

Even if the choice you made at that time is not how you would choose now, you were nurtured by the meal you chose or kept warm in your home. You made the best choice you could at the time, even if you were mistaken, and your ability to obtain credit helped you get what you needed at the time. Your debts represent something you received in the past, and you do not have to live in regret thinking about debt. Instead, think about how to move forward knowing better, knowing you can receive without saying, “Charge it.”

We know god (or spirit or universe) is good all the time. God’s love is not waiting for you to make perfect financial choices. God was with you at the time of your mistaken choice and is waiting to help you make better choices. The knowledge of perfect choices to ensure your financial health is within you: the force within you knows everything that needs to be known, everything that has been known, and everything you need to know. This wisdom is instantly accessible to you. It is sometimes expressed by New Thought folk as the ability to “download” wisdom. It could also be expressed as god giving you what you need, an answered prayer.

Therefore, the first action I am going to recommend for you to grow toward financial health is non-action.

The next time you “need” an item, ask yourself: “What do I want?” Keep repeating the question until you come to a god quality, something that is not limited by the material item in your mind.

Example:

* I need a large SUV; it will cost about $40,000.00.

What do I need?
* I need safety, I need to be able to haul kids/equipment/dogs.

What do I need?
* I need to feel confident and competent.

Your desire for confidence and competence is being expressed as a longing for a SUV.
Will the SUV accomplish this goal?

SUVs are not safer than other vehicles; in fact, they encourage aggressive driving, engender a false sense of confidence (four-wheel drive helps power through snow; it does not help navigate ice), and create greater havoc when involved in an accident than do smaller cars.

Therefore, the SUV cannot give you safety. Safety is within you, a gift of your source, your god, the divine dwelling within you.

You do not need an SUV to be competent. Dogs, equipment, and kids can be successfully hauled in hatchbacks that appear to be tiny, in station wagons, or in old, used vans that sell used for under $3,000.00. At least two of these (dogs and kids) require love far more than they require a fancy vehicle. Fortunately, you can give love regardless of your credit score.

Try the above exercise for some item you want right now. Identify the god quality you seek, and challenge yourself to think of at least one other way you can experience that god quality in your life.

The Soul of Success (Chopra/Williamson Event)

2009-04-04T03:58:00.000-07:00

Since spirit is the domain of awareness which is infinite it is not subject to compromise or recession.

The economic recession offers us a unique opportunity to understand the difference between money and wealth. Money is a symbol that expresses how we value ourselves and others and also represents society's values at a particular time and place in history. Wealth on the other hand is a state of consciousness that represents generosity of spirit that translates into material abundance.

THE SOUL OF SUCCESS

In this course, Deepak Chopra & Marianne Williamson will take you through an in-depth understanding of consciousness as a field of infinite possibilities, infinite creativity, infinite energy & infinite abundance.

Using a combination of techniques involving silent brain storming, mind – mapping and finding creative opportunities in perceived problems, Deepak will take you through an updated experience of the spiritual laws that create success in all its forms – material abundance, the progressive realization of worthy goals, the ability to have love and compassion, the ability to harness the infinite organizing power of intention, and the ability to always be connected to the source of all creation.

Marianne will guide you in the realization of your career as a spiritual journey, viewing your path to success as an initiation into your higher Self. She will teach you how to tap into the law of "divine compensation" -- the power of love to compensate for any limitations in the material world. Through devotion, prayer, forgiveness and compassion for self and others, we will activate our miraculous power to turn limited probabilities into unlimited possibilities.

The workshop will be intellectually stimulating and spiritually uplifting, grounded in both meta-physics and science, and will teach participants to reinvent themselves and their businesses and reactivate the spirit of success.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Palm Sunday: Two Days Early in Iowa (marriage equality decision)

2009-04-03T04:07:00.000-07:00

Today the Iowa Supreme Court UNANIMOUSLY held that the ban on marriage for same-sex couples violates the Iowa Constitution.

Equality Illinois salutes the Court's courage in doing its duty to secure the equal protection of law.

Equality Illinois congratulates our friends at Lambda Legal for their astoundiing victory in the Iowa Supreme Court today.

What Happened to Jesus?

2009-04-02T04:02:00.000-07:00

I got the following thought-provoking Easter reflection from Tikkun. (Tikkun: to heal, repair and transform the world). Living Well Ministries is an affiliate member of the Network of Spiritual Progressives, a project of the Tikkun community.

-- Jacki

[Tikkun Editor's note. The following article provides one possible understanding of the Resurrection celebrated by Christians on Easter--celebrated by Christians this year on April 12. Tikkun welcomes your submission of letters or articles providing alternative interpretations of this or other aspects of Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, atheistic or scientistic theologies. This article appeared in Tikkun March/April 2008.]

What Happened to Jesus?by Walter Wink

Considering the weight the early church attached to the resurrection, it is curious that, subsequent to the empty-tomb stories, no two resurrection accounts in the four Gospels are alike. All of these narratives seem to be very late additions to the tradition. They answer a host of questions raised by the gospel of the resurrection. At the core of all these accounts is the simple testimony: we experienced Jesus as alive.

A later generation that did not witness a living Jesus needed more; for them the resurrection narratives answered that need. But what had those early disciples experienced? What does it mean to say that they experienced Jesus alive? The resurrection appearances did not, after all, take place in the temple before thousands of worshipers, but in the privacy of homes or cemeteries. They did not occur before religious authorities, but to the disciples hiding from those authorities. The resurrection was not a worldwide historic event that could have been filmed, but a privileged revelation reserved for the few.Nevertheless, something "objective" did happen to God, to Jesus, and to the disciples. What happened was every bit as real as any other event, only it was not historically observable. It was an event in the history of the psyche. The ascension was the entry of Jesus into the archetypal realm. Though skeptics might interpret what the disciples experienced as a mass hallucination, the experience itself cannot be denied.
This is what may have happened: the very image of God was altered by the sheer force of Jesus being. God would never be the same. Jesus had indelibly imprinted the divine; God had everlastingly entered the human. In Jesus God took on humanity, furthering the evolution revealed in Ezekiel's vision of Yahweh on the throne in "the likeness, as it were, of a human form" (Ezek. 1:26). Jesus, it seemed to his followers, had infiltrated Godhead.
The ascension marks, on the divine side, the entry of Jesus into the son-of-the-man archetype; from then on Jesus' followers would experience God through the filter of Jesus. Incarnation means that not only is Jesus like God, but that God is now like Jesus. It is a prejudice of modern thought that events happen only in the outer world. What Christians regard as the most significant event in human history happened, according go to the Gospels, in the psychic realm, and it altered external history irrevocably. Ascension was an "objective" event, if you will, but it took place in the imaginal realm, at the substratum of human existence, where the most fundamental changes in consciousness take place.

Something also happened to the disciples. They experienced the most essential aspect of Jesus as remaining with them after his death. They had seen him heal, preach, and cast out demons, but had localized these powers in him. Though the powers had always been in them as well, while Jesus was alive they tended to project these latent, God-given powers onto him. They had only known those powers in him. So it was natural, after his resurrection, to interpret the unleashing of those powers in themselves, as if Jesus himself had taken residence in their hearts. And it was true: the God at the center of their beings was now indistinguishable from the Jesus who had entered the Godhead. Jesus, in many of the post-Easter son-of-the-man sayings, seems to speak of the Human Being (the "son of man") as other than himself. Was Jesus stepping aside, as he seems to do in the Gospels, to let the Human Being become the inner entelechy (the regulating and directing force) of their souls?

The disciples also saw that the spirit that had worked within Jesus continued to work in and through them. In their preaching they extended his critique of domination. They continued his life by advancing his mission. They persisted in proclaiming the domination-free order of God inaugurated by Jesus.The ascension was a "fact" on the imaginal plane, not just an assertion of faith. It irreversibly altered the nature of the disciples' consciousness. They would never again be able to think of God apart from Jesus. They sensed themselves accompanied by Jesus (Luke 24:13-35). They found in themselves a New Being that they had hitherto only experienced in Jesus. They knew themselves endowed with a spirit-power they had known only occasionally, such as when Jesus had sent them out to perform healings (Mark:7-13). In their struggles with the powers that be, they knew that whatever their doubts, losses, or sufferings, the final victory was God's, because Jesus had conquered death and the fear of death and led them out of captivity.

Jesus the man, the sage, the itinerant teacher, the prophet, even the lowly Human Being, while unique and profound, was not able to turn the world upside down. His attempt to do so was a decided failure. Rather, it was his ascension, his metamorphosis into the archetype of humanness that did so for his disciples. The Human Being constituted a remaking of the values that had undergirded the domination system for some 3,000 years before Jesus. The critique of domination continued to build on the Exodus and the prophets of Israel, to be sure. But Jesus' ascension to the right hand of the Power of God was a supernova in the archetypal sky. As the image of the truly Human One, Jesus became an exemplar of the utmost possibilities for living.

Could the son-of-the-man material have been lore that grew up to induce visions of the Human Being? Could it have been a way to activate altered states of consciousness based on meditation on the ascended Human Being enthroned upon the heart? It was not enough simply to know about the mystical path. One needed to take it. And the paths were remarkably alike.

The ascension was real. Something happened to God, to Jesus, and to the disciples. I am not suggesting that the ascension is non-historical, but rather that the historical is the wrong category for understanding ascension. The ascension is not a historical fact to be believed, but an imaginal experience to be undergone. It is not at datum of public record, but divine transformative power overcoming the powers of death. The religious task for us today is not to cling to dogma but to seek a personal experience of the living God in whatever mode is meaningful.

Walter Wink is professor emeritus of Auburn Theological Seminary in New York City and author of 16 books. He is best known for his trilogy on the "Powers" and his fascinating interpretation of Jesus' teachings on nonviolence.
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Tattered, Rudolf Steiner Speaks from my Wallet

2009-03-27T10:00:00.000-07:00

A tattered poem on Winter Solstice tumbles out of my wallet this morning. This Word has spoken to me often from its secure little nest, on the days I pull it out for mantra and on the days it just travels alongside of me.

WINTER SOLSTICE

Behold the Sun
At midnight.
Build with stones
On lifeless ground.

Find in decline,
In death's night,
Creation's new beginning,
Morning's youthful night.

The heights reveal
The gods' eternal word.
The depths guard
The peaceful treasure.

Living in darkness,
Create a Sun.
Weaving in matter,
Know Spirit's delight.

-- Rudolf Steiner

I have carried it for four years, this Word. On days and nights that seemed long, that seemed without light or path for others, it steadied me with an ancient, creation imperative. The Sun was present and I knew it. It brought delight and rebirth.

I wonder now, a few days past a new Spring on the calendar and in my heart, if I am done with it. The wondering passes. I am not. This brings the resolve of Rest. It is not a resolve of tirelessly plodding on, like a sturdy oak, mindless of fatigue or surroundings. It's Presence Possible only in the bearings of that Sun. It's a body-mind-spirit delight found when I sense the right place, the right time, the right work.

It's faith.

Turning World Upside Down with Justice, Compassion, Peace

2009-03-26T06:26:00.000-07:00

I am so moved by the witness and vision of the Beatitudes Society, which I got hooked up with a few months ago. Watch for a LWM book study on Anne Howard's book this summer. Here's more info on their work:

The Beatitudes Society develops and sustains emerging Christian leaders at seminaries and divinity schools as they build a progressive network for justice, compassion and peace as expressed in the Beatitudes.

How do we turn the world upside down?

One student, one faculty member, one school, one friend at a time, with all of us coming together in a commitment to the spirit of the Beatitudes.

We establish chapters at Christian seminaries and divinity schools across the nation, so students and faculty can gather in community to study, act and pray as they deepen their understanding and practice of prophetic Christian ministry.

We offer chapters financial support for campus activities and speaker events.
We invite everyone to share their thoughts on our Beatitudes Blog.

Annually, we select a progressive conference to which we offer our members scholarships. Click here to view our scholarship policy.

We offer paid fellowships for members at progressive Christian organizations. For more information, visit this page.

We offer an annual Beatitudes service trip for members and friends to do hands-on justice work.

We publish a monthly newsletter, and invite you to subscribe using the "Stay Informed" box at the top of the column to your right.

Anniversary of Iraq War

2009-03-23T05:26:00.000-07:00

The following is from Ken Sehested, fellow traveler and peacemaker, who posted it in the listserv of the Baptist Peace Fellowship of North America.

Friends,

This past week's anniversary of the US invasion of Iraq made me remember the video I made after returning from Baghdad shortly before "shock and awe" commenced on 19 March 2003. With a friend's help, I've put the 7-minute video on YouTube. If you're interested, here's the weblink: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vTSVa9vFhS4

I escorted the last delegation of short-term volunteers with the Iraq Peace Team, co-sponsored by Voices in the Wilderness and Christian Peacemaker Teams. A dozen of my friends, including my roommate in Baghdad, remained in Iraq during the bombardment, holed up in a hotel basement, in order to be able to report on the invasion's aftermath. During this season of remembrance, don't forget that we've been at war with Iraq for more than 6 years. Remember the first "Gulf War," when on 16 January, the day after the commemoration of Dr. King's birth, the US began attacking Iraqi troops that had invaded Kuwait? By March it was over. But then the US and our British allies established "no-fly" zones in southern and northern Iraq. Combat bombing missions occurred virtually every day from then until the outbreak of 2003 invasion of Iraqi itself. (For 4 days in Dec. 1998 the entire country came under intense US and British bombing and cruise missile attacks.) In other words, the US has been launching combat missions in Iraq for 18 years.

Midway through this period between the declared wars a US-directed campaign of economic sanctions further decimated the country. Then-US Ambassador to the United Nations (later Secretary of State) Madeleine Albright responded to a question on the "60 Minutes" television show about a UN study documenting the deaths of 500,000 children as a direct result of the economic sanctions by saying: "Is it worth it? It's a high price, but we think it's worth it." -------------------------------------------------------------------

"Now therefore hear this, you lover of pleasures,
who sit securely, who say in your heart,
'I am, and there is no one beside me;
I shall not sit as a widow or know the loss of children'...
You felt secure in your wickedness; you said,
'No one sees me.'
Your wisdom and your knowledge led you astray,
and you said in your heart,
'I am, and there is no one beside me."
--Isaiah 47:8, 10:

Speaking, ironically, of King Nebuchadnezzar and the Babylonian superpower in the land now known as Iraq.

Bless My Debt? Guest Post by Kelli Dudley

2009-03-22T07:00:00.000-07:00

Bless My Debt?

Kelli Dudley

Through all the talk about debt in the newspapers, on television, and on the Internet, there is one consistent theme: debt is a problem. We may disagree on who is to blame, who must bail out whom, and what caused the current catastrophe. But we unilaterally see debt as a problem, something outside of the good order of our lives, maybe even a “sin” or evidence of a life gone terribly awry.

But . . . is debt a problem? Do we need to place blame? Need anyone be bailed out? Is there a catastrophe?

What if the answer is “no”?

We know that we come from an abundant God (or universe or power or spirit) that is in charge of EVERYTHING. Our God synchronizes the dance of life so perfectly that the crocus bulbs in my front yard did not send up their blooms until a fairly late in the season, to my way of thinking, after this very cold winter.

All of my waiting, fretting, and fantasizing about warm weather would not move those blossoms. If I had been in charge instead of God, my delicate purple blossoms would have been nipped by cold and would not have been in my yard just in time to warm my heart in the middle of a busy day in mid-March.

Just as I worried over my bulbs needlessly, we worry about the flow of our money. We imagine that we owe money to someone, that we will not be able to pay, and that we will come to some catastrophe. We remonstrate, we blame greedy corporations, we wish for a financially-successful life partner, we project our solution onto the screen of the future, and we regret our past financial choices.

Indeed, our finances can be cause of concern. Just as a delicate bloom can be susceptible to frost or can reach new heights with a little fertilizer, we can bring loving attention to our finances—mulching with a good interest-bearing account and avoiding the freeze that might nip by holding off buying that item that looks more appealing in the store than it does at use in our lives.

But is debt “bad”?

If you are blaming yourself for incurring debt, consider that you may not have behaved so badly as you think. Think of the experience, the dance of life, that led to your debt. Was there a good meal when you were hungry? The blessing of a good meal over a table filled with favorite foods and surrounded by favorite friends?

Did you buy a home? Why did you want the new tile? The new granite counter top? Could it have been your desire to demonstrate love in your choice of housing for yourself and your family?

Maybe you spent your money on a spiffy car. As it turns out, the car didn’t go fast enough to leave your foibles and perceived flaws in a cloud of dust. In fact, it is the same dusty old you driving that car—and it is getting less shiny by the minute. Why did you buy that car? Was it your desire to express love of life? Your desire to acknowledge the quality of graceful movement through the universe?

Sometimes it turns out that we planned future income that did not materialize. Our debts seem like a burden. We have, it seems, made a mistake.

There are practical steps that can help you choose differently in the future. These may mean expressing your God qualities differently next time—maybe you’ll fertilize your future with a savings plan or prune some wilted edges that no longer serve you. Reverend Jacki and I want to use this space to discuss some of those possibilities.

But for now, if you are feeling a little challenged by finances, open yourself to this possibility: instead of regret, bless your debt.

Allow yourself to remember that delicious meal, the faces of your friends, the waitstaff that enjoyed the generous tip. Remember the feel of the new tile under your feet when you stepped out of a steamy bath in your new home. Breathe in that new car smell. These things were blessings in their time, and they nurtured your soul in an important way then, just as new practices will nurture you in the future. Regretting your choices hurts—every time you remonstrate against your current situation, you tell yourself you never deserved the things you thought money could buy. In fact, you do deserve those things—and you deserve to have them in a higher way that may mean greater financial stability. The God qualities don’t change. You attempted to demonstrate them with material things yesterday; today perhaps you are finding them closer than your very breath.

Right here, right now, you have the God quality of abundance. You may perceive the condition of an uncomfortable credit card statement, and you may want to move toward a positive balance sheet as an expression of grace. But make no mistake: the God qualities you felt yesterday are still here—in the credit card statement, in the bill collector, and in all the challenges that seem to be taking place.

Take a moment: bless the debt and the need that was met when you incurred it. Know that there are other ways for God to express in your life, and that these ways may not involve things that can be charged on plastic. Open to knowing more, and open to knowing that your past cannot rob your present and future of abundance any more than a fretting gardener can know the right time for those delicate purple crocus blossoms to dance in my yard.

It was, is, and will be all God, all good.

***************************************************************************

Kelli Dudley is a lawyer who assists people to change their minds about debt. She defends people who are pursued by creditors, mortgage companies, and landlords. She helps them to negotiate when they truly owe money, and assists them to defend themselves when they are unjustly harassed. Kelli teaches Housing Law at the DePaul University College of Law and teaches in several paralegal and college programs. Her passion is helping people understand money and material resources as tools that can help them attain their true purpose.

Steadfast Love: Holy Relationships and a Wilderness God

2009-03-19T08:39:00.000-07:00

This is what my friend and colleague Rich McCarty and I have been birthing in recent weeks. Saturday's retreat will be a gathering of 20+ fellow travelers seeking "holy relationships." Join me in praying for this rich day...

STEADFAST LOVE …
Holy Relationships and a Wilderness God

Saturday, March 21
10:00am – 4:00pm
3338 N. Broadway Street
Chicago, Illinois

Are you on the journey of embracing spirituality and sexuality? Do you walk beside those engaged in such holy work? This Lenten retreat will provide an LGBT-inclusive space for rest, reflection and renewal in the work of the Holy. Inspired by the witness of Psalm 107, we will celebrate God’s steadfast love in the wilderness. We will also challenge ideas about God and God’s expectations which damage our experience and trust in Divine faithfulness. Attendees of all sexual orientations and gender identities will explore these six dimensions of living in Holy Relationships: trust, mutuality, accountability, unconditional love, boundaries, and intimacy. Together, we’ll give thanks for the pattern of God’s work in our lives, and be empowered for new discipleship commitments. Retreat Facilitators: Rev. Dr. Rich McCarty and Rev. Jacki Belile, members of the Holy Relationships National Steering Committee.

Financial Crises and Healing Opportunities

2009-03-18T03:10:00.000-07:00

I receive daily emails from Beliefnet.com and usually find them very meaningful. They've been doing some good stuff on spirituality and money in recent months. Here's a blog entry from a sister coach, Deborah Price, which reminds me of what my colleague Kelli Dudley (a dynamic lawyer and social activist grounded in New Thought principles) and I have in mind/heart behind our seminar "Abundance Actions: Tips for Creaing Financial Wellness." It will be offered again in May in Chicago.

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Welcome From Your Financial Crisis Coach
Thursday March 12, 2009
Categories: Welcome

Welcome to Your Daily Spiritual Stimulus, a blog created to help you navigate this financially challenging time with ease and grace!

It is my hope and intention to become a source of daily comfort and support to our readers. As a Money Coach, I have helped hundreds of individuals and couples overcome their financial challenges and issues. This is not merely my profession--this work is my life's purpose.

I came to this work through my own experience of financial hardship and adversity. I know what it is to be a struggling single mother, to be struck by a disabling illness, and to be a financially strapped business owner. I know first- hand what it feels like to wake up not knowing how you will financially survive another month. I know what it's like to be filled with fear.

I took the powerful lessons that came from my own experience with adversity and turned them into something meaningful. I was able to carve a new life. So, wherever you are right now, in the midst of this economic crisis and time of uncertainty, I want you to know that you are not alone, that there is hope and that with God's grace and guidance, together, we will get through this.

As difficult as it may be, the financial crisis is giving us an amazing gift and opportunity to reconsider our relationship to money and personal finances. Ultimately, I believe, it will give us a chance to heal.

For too long now, our lives have been overly focused on money and material possessions as a way of feeling okay about who we are, when in fact who we are has nothing to do with what we have. Who we are is so much larger and more valuable than anything we could ever hope to own or possess. I strongly believe this is the lesson that we are all being called to learn at this time.

Even in the worst of times, we can and must nurture our souls and continue to grow spiritually. In the coming weeks, I will offer ways to help you discover your own answers and help you to find the richness that exists within you. As we share prayer, community, kinship, stories and exercises to help you cope with the crisis, I hope you will also allow yourself to dream of the life you want to be living. For it is essential to hold onto hope and know that we will find a way to brighter days.

I will also guide you to the rich resources and community support that is available to you right here on Beliefnet. For starters, you might want to share your stories and prayer needs in our community. This is a wonderful time to stay connected and we will help you do just that.

So tune into Your Daily Spiritual Stimulus for ongoing spiritual guidance, support and community. Don't forget to share your comments and questions.

I leave you with this prayer for today.

Dear God,
If it be in accordance with your will,
I pray that this new age in human history
be a time of spiritual renaissance,
a "second Enlightenment"
that will heighten values
and help everyone to realize
their true purpose in life.

I pray for peace and justice,
and love and light.
I pray for an abundance
of beauty, truth and goodness
in the lives of all the inhabitants
of this troubled world.
May there be harmony,
sustainability,
and evolutionary progress.
Thank you for this gift of consciousness,
dear God.
Amen.
- Steve McIntosh

Peace and Blessings!
-- Deborah
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Prayer for Third Week of Lent

2009-03-15T07:26:00.000-07:00

God of Grace and God of Glory,
we yearn for commandments which bring life.

Deepen our longing, fire our questions, order our desires.

Deepen our longing to be a journey people,
known for abiding commitments--
not childish obedience.

Fire our questions about commandments of old,
knowing they bring life--
and sometimes death.

Order our desires as the poet orders your world,
in awe traversing the vast creation--and our depths too.

Fire us with zeal that opens doors,
questioning perverse traditions--
and ego's house.

Deepen our longings for true Glory:
Presence, Love, Wisdom Unshamed--
Foolish Grace.

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Written by Jacki Belile for "Out in Scripture," a project of the Human Rights Campaign's Religion and Faith Program.

A Breath Away's Not Far

2009-03-13T19:53:00.000-07:00

Another song in memory of Tom, who introduced me to this one by Josh Groban when he sang it in a World AIDS Day service a few years back. Tom was always introducing me to wider music and literature. His joy in literature, music and theatre coursed through his veins like blood itself. I'm grateful he was so faithful in passing it on, one way he bore witness to that power that "can't be seen." As loved ones gather to mark his passing, I pray that we all remember "a breath away's not far."

To Where You Are

Who can say for certain
Maybe you're still here
I feel you all around me
Your memory's so clear

Deep in the stillness
I can hear you speak
You're still an inspiration
Can it be (?)
That you are mine
Forever love
And you are watching over me from up above

Fly me up to where you are
Beyond the distant star
I wish upon tonight
To see you smile
If only for awhile to know you're there
A breath away's not far
To where you are

Are you gently sleeping
Here inside my dream
And isn't faith believing
All power can't be seen

As my heart holds you
Just one beat away
I cherish all you gave me everyday
'Cause you are my
Forever love
Watching me from up above

And I believe
That angels breathe
And that love will live on and never leave

Fly me up
To where you are
Beyond the distant star
I wish upon tonight
To see you smile
If only for awhile
To know you're there
A breath away's not far
To where you are
I know you're there

A breath away's not far
To where you are

"Not a Time to Hide from Our Past" (on torture)

2009-03-11T09:59:00.000-07:00

I got this compelling article today from one of my favorite sources calling for "Living Well Together:" The Daily e-news from Faith in Public Life. Lent calls us to the GOOD NEWS of repentance, that which Paul says originates with the Lord's kindness. Indeed, it is by remembering the Christian claim that repentance is good news (not bad), that we contribute to a world where we do not -- in fear -- hide from ourselves, one another or God. Or, our past.

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Clergy Support Push for Truth Panel on Torture
By: Karin Hamilton

Posted: Wednesday, March 11, 2009 6:26 am

WASHINGTON (RNS) Saying the United States “must never again engage in torture,” a group of religious leaders is supporting a call for a “Commission of Inquiry” to investigate U.S.-sponsored torture under the Bush administration.

“Torture is immoral, illegal and counterproductive. It causes profound and lasting harm, especially to its victims but also to its perpetrators. It contradicts our nation’s deepest values and corrupts the moral fabric of our society,” said the statement from the National Religious Campaign Against Torture, which was signed by 23 religious leaders. Signers included the Rev. John Thomas, general minister and president of the United Church of Christ; Ingrid Mattson, president of the Islamic Society of North America; the Rev. David Gushee, president of Evangelicals for Human Rights; and Rabbi David Saperstein, director of the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism.

While President Obama told Congress last month that “I can stand here ... and say without exception or equivocation that the United States of America does not torture,” a proposal by Sen. Patrick Leahy, D-Vt., for a “Truth Commission” has largely stalled on Capitol Hill.

The religious leaders, however, said Americans “have been kept in the dark about this nation’s involvement in torture for long enough” and a nonpartisan panel with subpoena power would help “heal the nation’s soul.”“This is not a time to hide from our past,” the leaders said. “We must investigate and report on the torture policies and practices of the past and then develop safeguards to assure that torture never happens again.”

What the Apostle Paul and Krishna Share...

2009-03-11T09:31:00.000-07:00

Ok. That title was to get some attention:)

This is one thing they share, at least as they have touched my life...

Two versions of a provocative reminder that the roles we play in any endeavor -- however great and however we care about it -- are limited, confined, interdependent, and without any guarantee of the results our ego may seek. That, they both say, is left to the One who we believe has the whole picture in providential care. (Frankly, although Paul is familiar, beautiful and vivid in helpful imagery, I prefer the punchy brevity of Krishna!)

Here's the extended passage from Paul, in 1 Corinthians 3: 2-9:

I fed you with milk, not solid food, for you were not ready for solid food. Even now you are still not ready, for you are still of the flesh. For as long as there is jealousy and quarrelling among you, are you not of the flesh, and behaving according to human inclinations? For when one says, ‘I belong to Paul’, and another, ‘I belong to Apollos’, are you not merely human?

What then is Apollos? What is Paul? Servants through whom you came to believe, as the Lord assigned to each. I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth. The one who plants and the one who waters have a common purpose, and each will receive wages according to the labour of each. For we are God’s servants, working together; you are God’s field, God’s building.
***

And, here's Krishna, in the Bhagavad-gita:

"To the work you are entitled, but not to it's fruits..."

There are a number of dimensions to my own lifelong Lenten journey. Learning this one may be at the core... Thank you, Paul and Krishna, for calling me to my Center in humility and rest!

4 Kingdom Questions for Activity Discernment

2009-03-11T07:36:00.000-07:00

I'm thankful for the witness of Lifeforming Leadership Coaching, a Christian discipleship coaching school whose newsletter I receive. Here are four profound questions from the recent newsletter:

Here are 4 kingdom questions for your reflection and prayer:

1. What am I doing that does not need to be done?
2. What am I doing that could be done by someone else?
3. What am I doing that only I can do?
4. What should I be doing that I am not? (especially about being intentional in disciple making)

Joseph Umidi,
President & Founder
Lifeforming Leadership Coaching

Prayer for the Second Week of Lent

2009-03-08T07:23:00.000-07:00

God of Names,
old and new...

God of Peoples,
old and new...

God of Promises,
old and new...

We turn away this season:
from all pride that would own You,
from all lies that would fear You,
from all burdens that would blame You.

We turn for You this season:
from our isolation we turn toward others,
from our chaos we turn to inward calm,
from our crosses of shame we turn toward glory.

We hope against hope...

Promising, Peopling, Naming!

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Written by Jacki Belile for "Out in Scripture," a project of the Human Rights Campaign's Religion and Faith Program.

A Hymn For Tom

2009-03-07T04:21:00.000-08:00

This is for Tom, whose lifelong quest for the love of Jesus was an inspiration, and whose rest is now complete...

Jesus, I am resting, resting,
In the joy of what Thou art;
I am finding out the greatness
Of Thy loving heart.

Thou hast bid me gaze upon Thee,
And Thy beauty fills my soul,
For by Thy transforming power,
Thou hast made me whole.
.
Refrain:
Jesus, I am resting, resting,
In the joy of what Thou art;
I am finding out the greatness
Of Thy loving heart.
.
O, how great Thy loving kindness,
Vaster, broader than the sea!
O, how marvelous Thy goodness,
Lavished all on me!

Yes, I rest in Thee, Belovèd,
Know what wealth of grace is Thine,
Know Thy certainty of promise,
And have made it mine.
.
Refrain
.
Simply trusting Thee, Lord Jesus,
I behold Thee as Thou art,
And Thy love, so pure, so changeless,
Satisfies my heart;

Satisfies its deepest longings,
Meets, supplies its every need,
Compasseth me round with blessings:
Thine is love indeed!
.
Refrain
.
Ever lift Thy face upon me
As I work and wait for Thee;
Resting ‘neath Thy smile, Lord Jesus,
Earth’s dark shadows flee.

Brightness of my Father’s glory,
Sunshine of my Father’s face,
Keep me ever trusting, resting,
Fill me with Thy grace.
.
Refrain

Jesus, I am Resting, Resting
Jean Sophia Pigott1845-1882
.

In Support of Civil Unions Bill in lllinois

2009-03-04T19:31:00.000-08:00

This is the letter I wrote and sent to each of the members of the Youth and Family Committee of the Illinois legislature today.

March 4, 2009

Dear Representative _____________:

I write in support of HB 2234, Illinois Religious Freedom Protection and Civil Union Act, and ask that you work to vote it out of committee at the scheduled March 5, 2009 meeting. Together, we can continue to advance the cause of faithful adherence to two pillars of our free and fair society: religious diversity and individual self-determination for all citizens. I believe that you and your fellow legislators will offer political leadership for the long-term good of all -- supporters and opponents -- by supporting this Bill.

As a Baptist minister, I am deeply grateful to see our leaders lift "religious freedom" in the naming of and discourse about civil union protections. I believe not only that this language offers honor and respect to the concerns of the Bill's opponents, but that it correctly introduces the reality of religious diversity on ALL "sides" of this issue into the debate arena. What is at stake is our will and capacity to live together without legally-sanctioned discrimination against those who disagree with us.

To name our commitment to religious freedom is insightful, fair and fruitful, I hope, for ongoing work of mutual understanding. To delineate exactly how religiously-rooted opposition to same-gender families (or other non-traditional co-habitants making a life together!) will not itself be discriminated against through any coercive measures of the state is also insightful, fair and fruitful. In this regard, I believe it illumines the civic work which the Bill's opponents are invited to continue: acceptance of their freedom of conviction, teaching and even their organized efforts at persuading the public of their views. The limits to that freedom lie along the line that is crossed when others are robbed of their equal rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
Advancing legal protections for our choices of intimate partners, roommates, housing, financial beneficiaries (the list goes on and on) is a CONSERVATIVE choice. Such protection preserves our commitment to safeguard the individual's self-determination in matters intimate and material. It preserves our long-held stated ideals as we seek to live as neighbors who recognize one another's rights, even when we disagree. And, yes, spelling these rights out carefully in law whenever they would be threatened by others (even "well-meaning" others).

I know from life experience that many of this Bill's opponents are good-hearted people. I believe they have misplaced fears and, sometimes, unexamined prejudices. I do believe they care deeply about the common good. I simply believe HB 2234 respects the widest collective good, and thus deserves your full and sustained support. Thank you for all your work so far, and for considering these thoughts as you serve us all.

For Living Well,

Rev. Jacki Belile

Desire is Prayer

2009-03-04T09:05:00.000-08:00

A quote from Mary Baker Eddy I have long found moving:

"Desire is prayer; and no loss can occur from trusting God with your desires, that they may be moulded and exalted before they take form in words and deeds."

I'm reading a rather dense book right now, and enjoying every minute of it. (Got to get to some fiction SOMETIME!)

This is a theological history book which is reminding me of ancient and modern struggles with the reality of desire in our human condition. Is it bad? scary? dangerous? Repugnant? Divine gift? All of the above?

I think Mary Baker Eddy's contribution is moving and profound. If my desire is, itself, a prayer than of course it's GOOD -- and not to be squelched, but entrusted to a trustworthy God (in formal prayer).

And, yet... there is ever the shaping and lifting of my desires on the way to their taking of form. This is a beautiful compromise. Of course, we're not always the wisest about what would be good for us and those around us. And, we need not be shamed or shame others for being "works in progress"!

With that, I think I'll go and have a good day. And I hope you have one too.

Prayer for First Week of Lent

2009-03-01T07:21:00.000-08:00

FIRST SUNDAY IN LENT

Maker...

Make of us, still,
creatures of awe,
creatures who know,
creatures who live,
in connection.

Make in us, still,
the Word-made-flesh,
the water-signed call,
the will to begin again,
in connection.

Make over us, still,
rainbows announcing hope,
rainbows embracing all,
rainbows calling for conscience,
in connection.

Maker...

************************************************

Written by Jacki Belile for "Out in Scripture"a project of the Human Rights Campaign's Religion and Faith Program.

Prayer for Ash Wednesday 2009

2009-02-25T07:18:00.000-08:00

ASH WEDNESDAY

God of Transformation,
touch our hearts anew this day
and with tender judgments.

Teacher of Justice,
show us the fasting that feeds life,
and not strife or debate.

Spirit of Empowerment,
protect us from bitterness
and stir us to enduring humility.

Show us your world-loving will,
show us the joys of justice,
show us the depths of our hearts,
show us the wilderness way.

Blessed be.

***********************************************************************************
Written by Jacki Belile for "Out in Scripture"a project of the Human Rights Campaign's Religion and Faith Program.

Top 10 Fundamentals for Changing the World

2009-02-08T07:59:00.000-08:00

I've been deepening my personal and professional understanding this month of "energy leadership." By that, we core energy coaches mean both of these things:

a) leading our OWN energy
b) the capacity to lead others (inside and outside of socially recognized leadership roles)

I want to share the following list from the IONS webpage. It is my experience, reflected in my evolving beliefs, that these priorities in no way need to be divorced from engagement and advocacy with justice demands. Even the purposive actions aimed at dismantling systems which perpetuate poisonous beliefs and injustices on this planet can be taken with such spirit.

I commit myself to the following practices as a way of engaging all of the spirit/energy available to me to work in such arenas with discernment and abundant compassion for myself and everyone else. I commit to not "becoming what I hate," to abiding in subversive joy and irresistable hope. I commit to sustainable activism and social justice ministries.

That is the undergirding of my call as a minister and spiritual life coach to share this energy leadership work with clergy and activists. Together, we can move from a reliance on catabolic energy (victim and conflict thinking) and be more fueled by anabolic energy (increasing self-responsibility, expanding compassion and connection, and decreasing attachments to ego-based plans).

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This month we link to a beautiful Top Ten Fundamentals for Changing the World derived from study of Gandhi. We list the ten principles here, but you can follow this link to a longer article with full explanation:

1. Change yourself.
2. You are in control.
3. Forgive and let it go.
4. Without action, you aren't going anywhere.
5. Take care of this moment
6. Everyone is human.
7. Persist.
8. See the good in people and help them.
9. Be congruent, be authentic, and be your true self.
10. Continue to grow and evolve.

A Deep Breath, and Beginning Again

2009-02-05T07:08:00.000-08:00

2.28.09

January and February have been "full up" with the joy of concluding my energy leadership training (see Institute for Professional Empowerment Coaching). And, I enjoyed renewal of spirit (ENERGY) with my colleagues on the Holy Relationships National Steering Committee as we met in New York City and finish plans for a local event in Chicago on March 21. I've therefore been collecting tidbits I want to share here, and am going to FINALLY pass them on now.

Peace and love,
Jacki

PS. Does anyone else out there sometimes get unnecessarily weighted down by beliefs that you are "behind" or "in debt" - even (perversely!) in relation to the lists and expectations that you yourself create? Here's to unlearning THAT craziness. Watch my event blog for upcoming discussions of this marvelous new book called Payback by Margaret Atwood. It is, as I understand it, a study of how ideas of indebtedness in our philosophical and religious history have influenced our culture.

Love This Life, This World

2009-02-04T07:15:00.001-08:00

Still in the "Happy New Year" mood, I guess. Or just full up on joy, adventure, calm, love. Let's KEEP ON inaugurating a loving life, a loving world... I found this post on my event/program blog. I wrote at the very beginning of LWM's on-line presence. Now, as I approach the one-year anniversary of this work, I am so grateful for all those fellow travelers, loved ones, mentors and peers who are a part of such an abundant life.

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"I came that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly." (Jesus, someone claimed/claims, said that. in John 10:10).

"Love this Life... This World"

reality
invitation
command(?)
law of liberty (!)
the way, the truth, the life

joy of today

living well, still
living well, waves

living well, then
(yes, they did)

living well, now
(yes, i choose)

living well, then
(yes, we will)

"It's great to be alive!" (young master Jason, dancing)

"Our truest nonconformity may not be in withholding ourselves from the world but in loving it as God loves it. " Mary H. Schertz in "For God So Loved" (in The Heart of the Matter: Pastoral Ministry in Anabaptist Perspective, Erick Sawatzky, ed.)

Rev. Jacki Belile, here. I dedicate this blog and the space it creates to the Source and Work of Living Well. May "Living Well Ministries" reveal God's light and love -- already at work (play) -- in the lives of those I will encounter. We'll study, we'll open, we'll encourage, we'll pray. May it be for love -- not escape -- of this incredible, fragile life.

For Undivided Life!

Jacki

This is the Future We Can Have

2009-02-03T12:55:00.000-08:00

As McKibben says in this article below, the CHOICE IS OURS to make. What do you choose in these fragile, hopeful times?

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Sanders, McKibben Urge Move to Sustainable Future
by Chris Garofolo

BRATTLEBORO - The citizens of the world may not get a better chance to reverse the mounting threat of global warming, even in the face of a struggling economy.
That's the message environmentalist and author Bill McKibben preached to a Brattleboro crowd during a town meeting event Sunday afternoon.

McKibben said the United States, as well as the rest of the world, is facing huge financial issues and equally huge environmental issues, but there remains a very narrow window for a gradual transformation to a new global economy.

"This is the future we can have," said McKibben. "Now's the moment, and we are the people who will either do it or not do it."

McKibben, author of 10 environmental books, was in town with U.S. Sen. Bernard Sanders, I-Vt., to discuss developing a sustainable economy while finding solutions to make global warming take an about-face.

Nearly 300 residents turned out at Brattleboro Union High School to visit with the senator, one of the most popular political figures in Brattleboro.
"I think anywhere we go in the state we will get crowds like this because people are very, very, very concerned," he said.

The two speakers visited Woodstock earlier in the day to speak on the same global issues.
Sanders, in his first-term in the Senate, led off his statements about the serious economic crisis facing the nation.

Unemployment is soaring, and millions are losing their homes, he said, which leads to employees losing their pensions and health insurance.

It has come to the point now where officials in Washington, D.C. have to bailout corporations -- due in part to greedy executives on Wall Street -- in the form of billions of taxpayer dollars, Sanders continued.

"The amount of money we are talking about is staggering," he said, with long-term economic trends that can be devastating to middle class Americans.

While the banking industry has weakened the American consumer, McKibben said the energy corporations are the ongoing failures that are the largest risk to the planet.

Leading scientists came in front of environmental committees on Capitol Hill a few years ago to
tell politicians bold actions must be taken, said Sanders.

Those same people recently came in to say they underestimated the problem, and bolder actions need to take place. Without properly addressing the concerns, the global warming crisis could mean unprecedented floods, droughts and extreme weather conditions leading to a rise in hunger and disease, said Sanders.

"We thought, 20 years ago, (global warming) was going to be more of a problem for our children and not for us, but we were wrong," McKibben said.

But out of the darkness, there is hope that the country and Vermont -- known as a leader in energy efficiency -- can begin to create a more sustainable energy plan.

"We can create millions of good paying jobs as we move our country any from foreign oil," said the senator. There needs to be an aggressive move toward greater energy efficiency and sustainable development of renewable sources as the country moves away from fossil fuels, he added.

McKibben grew up in Lexington, Mass., and was president of the Harvard newspaper while in college. Shortly after graduation, he joined The New Yorker magazine and wrote for the publication until 1987.

Since that time, he was frequently wrote about global warming, alternative energy and the risks associated with Human genetic engineering. McKibben helped lead the country's largest demonstration against global warming in 2006.

He currently lives in Addison County and works as a scholar in residence at Middlebury College. One of the ways to help put out the fire, according to McKibben, is to get involved with the global movement to put a cap on the carbon intake into the atmosphere.

He recommended the Web site www.350.org as a good starting point for activists to learn about the issue and ways to take action.

Copyright © 2009 MediaNews Group

Change is Coming: LGBT Welcoming Church Report

2009-01-27T13:58:00.000-08:00

I am often invited to speak about my experiences as a lesbian Christian, a minister (and a BAPTIST to top it all off). Sometimes I share about the coming out journey, about reconciling the "Bible" and my journey, or the spiritual journey in general. As an ordained minister and spiritual life coach, I support people of all walks of life who are shifting their core energy (Spirit) from fear and victimhood to a confident, open-hearted, risk-taking spirituality. For me, that's the essence of Jesus' gospel. It's what I hold on to as a self-proclaimed (liberal) evangelical.

I've noticed that in recent years the phrase "I'm a child of the welcoming church" is often on my lips. By that, I've come to mean that I am profoundly aware and deeply grateful that I found a welcoming church at the beginning of my adult journey. At the age of 21, my partner and I discovered Grace Baptist Church while we were seniors at Taylor University. From 1990-2007 I was a member, and later pastor, at Grace. My Master of Divinity is from an extremely LGBT+ seminary, Chicago Theological Seminary. Certainly, some coming out experiences have been challenging. Being surrounded by love, respect, encouragement and openness my entire adult life has taught me a great deal about living well with God, self and others.

Some might say I was privileged to experience such resources. I'll simply say I am grateful and do not take it for granted. And, that I know firsthand that experiencing such a community was a matter of life and death in 1990. Growing and serving in grace created, well, what the hymn calls "how firm a foundation" for my adult journey of transformation, risk and vulnerability. It continues as I'm nourished at Lake Street Church in Evanston.

My life and ministry arise still from the deep well of gratitude and devotion for finding grace at Grace. My years there instilled a deep calling to support those seeking God "outside-the-box." Through coaching, I empower those who truly want to live out their faith, even as it is challenged and changing. (I believe that's what it means to have a LIVING faith!) Many clients are looking for short-term coaching on coming out issues, faith transitions, forgiveness, stress management or other wellness issues. They want to connect their core values with the choices they make in a complicated, demanding world. (Sometimes that means reevaluating old beliefs, habits or relationships and letting them go. My own journey has taught me how important it is to face today and tomorrow without the need to judge ourselves or others for past limitations.) Attendees of local and teleclass events seek study and community as they explore "living well" AND the Living Well that nourishes their hope.

This "child of the welcoming church" -- so grateful and humbled by its gifts -- seeks new ways to pay it (Good News) forward! The post below from the Galip Foundation will link those interested to their latest directory of welcoming churches and ministries across the globe. Pass on the word... Change is coming!

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2008 Welcoming Church Report (from Galip Foundation):

It is my pleasure to announce that the 2008 Welcoming Christian Church Survey Report is out! Comparing the numbers to the previous year it is clear that churches continue to open their doors to the GLBT community at a rapid clip. Like the gay community itself, this movement crosses virtually all denominational and geographically based lines. At the close of 2008 the directory contained 5,301 Christian churches from thirty different countries, representing sixty five different denominations. The United Church of Christ leads the way with over 865 churches followed by the Episcopalian churches, Lutheran and Presbyterian churches respectively. To find out more including details as to where this growth is taking place by denomination and geographical location, along with a brief analysis as to where this movement may be headed next the report is a must read. The 2008 Welcoming Christian Church Survey Report along with the other yearly reports can be found in the section of the www.gaychurch.org titled “Welcoming Church Report”.
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And, finally, a disclaimer. I like the diligent work Galip does in connecting ministries, but personally find their language (ex. gay and lesbian) limiting and exclusive.

A Humble AND STRONG President?

2009-01-26T13:41:00.000-08:00

Good News this week... a thoughtful, assertive, humble President is in the office. Let us commit to following this example in our personal lives and community agendas!

"My job is to communicate to the American people that the Muslim world is filled with extraordinary people who simply want to live their lives and see their children live better lives," Obama said in an interview this week. "My job to the Muslim world is to communicate that the Americans are not your enemy. We sometimes make mistakes. We have not been perfect." -- President Obama

Discernment in the New Year

2009-01-14T12:22:00.000-08:00

I'm grateful for the opportunity to facilitate a women in ministry covenant group this year through the Ministers Council of the American Baptist Churches-USA. Our theme is "Prayerful Living: Ministers Practicing the Serenity Prayer Together." In our gathering retreat, we shared initial reflections on serenity, courage and wisdom (and our feelings about the Serenity Prayer's uses and misuses).

This quote from Thomas Keating has been on my mind all week as I've prayed for my sisters and our time together this year:

"Discernment is letting go of what you are not."

More later on these related themes: discernment, honesty, letting go, acceptance of not being everything to everyone...

Transition from Empire to Global Earth Community

2009-01-12T12:05:00.000-08:00

Living Well. This means living well with God, self, and others. Wellness defined? Thriving, changing, connecting, grounding, repenting, resting and more. A delicate process of responsibility and Divine gift. An experience of our Source: the living well of God's unconditional love.

The following text is the most inspiring thing I've heard all week (and I've been pretty wrapped up in the archetypal inspiration of pre-inauguration festivities!) Why does it make the "living well collage"? Maybe it touches my spirit because my recent reintroductions to permaculture feel guided by a divine hand. "Local, small scale cultivation of mutually beneficial relationships" (and following designs and lessons of Nature's associational principles) just FEELS right to this unempiring Baptist. Or maybe Common Circle Education catches my eye with Jordan's "take action' quote. At any rate, in 2009 and beyond I am exploring permaculture, both literally and in design application of Living Well Ministries programs. Interested? Come along for the ride!

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"We are the ones we have been waiting for" --June Jordan

... As we continue to plant new seeds towards a thriving global community, we are proud to announce our new program -- Action for A Healthy Planet is a hands-on workshop series (no biking) grounded in permaculture design, intentional community building designed to give participants the tools we need to facilitate the transition from empire to a global earth community.

Community, Re-Localization & Organics Retreat (July 5-11, Oregon) will be a holistic week focused on eco-village (intentional community) design, jump-starting localization of economies and education, as well as basic skills in growing your own food and much more -- all the practical tools communities will need as we transition to a sustainable, global community. We will gather at an internationally renowned organic farm in Corvallis, Oregon, and spend a week together living as an impromptu service community. Each day will combine a rigorous schedule of workshops and hands-on service projects on the farm, followed by field trips (vehicle shuttle) to intentional communities, cooperatives and other sustainable businesses. This course is currently deeply discounted through February 15th. Space is VERY limited so sign up early (and save money!)

Permaculture, Green Building & Intentional Community Design Course (July 18-25, July 25-August 2nd, Oregon) offers an incredible opportunity to have fun and get your hands dirty while learning how to create sustainable communities and thriving local economies through permaculture - a set of sustainable design principles that are applicable to every human system: businesses, communities, cities as well as personal relationships. Permaculture is an integrated set of principles and methods for designing, setting up and running sustainable human systems. But that rather technical definition doesn't quite describe the soul of permaculture, which could be said to be the art of respecting nature and working with it to cultivate land, plants, animals and people by fostering mutually beneficial relationships between them. The course will follow Bill Mollison's 72-hour permaculture curriculum and participants who attend both weeks will gain the prestigious Permaculture Design Certificate.

This course is currently deeply discounted through February 15th. Space is VERY limited so sign up early (and save money!)

All our workshops are grounded in community-building - we will gather and live together for the duration of each course, share meals and all the precious moments that make communities happen. All courses include healthy, filling, organic (and vegan) meals and some camping equipment. We hope you will join us this summer!- Vladislav and the Common Circle Education Team

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I Am A New Person

2009-01-10T08:53:00.000-08:00

This is dedicated to my brave friend JP:

In this new year I am a new person. And I shall change my consciousness again and again until I have driven away all the darkness of ignorance and manifested the shining light of Spirit in whose image I am made.

-- Paramahansa Yogananda

Life and the Church of the Lord

2009-01-08T08:55:00.000-08:00

My reading this week includes revisiting Wilson Van Dusen's book, The Country of Spirit: Selected Writings. This book presents a "depthful view of Emmanuel Swedenborg and spiritual practices" by a renowned author and mystic. I'm mindful that the World Council of Churches calls us to celebrate a Week of Prayer for Christian Unity later this month (Jan. 18-25, 2009). Here's a quote from Swedenborg's Arcana Coelestia (8152) which touches what I've come to believe about the true Body of Christ (more on my journey in a future post). I've gender-inclusified it.

Swedenborg:
It is plain that the church of the Lord is not here, nor there, but that it is everywhere, both within those kingdoms where the church is, and outside of them, where people live according to the precepts of charity. Hence it is that the church of the Lord is scattered through the whole world, and yet it is one. For when Life makes the church (and not doctrine separate from Life), then the church is One; but when doctrine makes the church, then there are many.

I'm intensely grateful for my new home church -- the Lake Street Church of Evanston, Illinois, and for all it does to support a Christian faith which is in this spirit. Later this winter I'll be doing some blogging on the kind of battle scars that I and others carry from many years invested in the doctrine battles of the divided church.

Things That Have Never Been...

2009-01-07T19:39:00.000-08:00

"And now let us welcome the New Year -- Full of things that have never been."

-- Rainer Maria Rilke

My fellow coach Melissa sent this quote today. I pray that "things that have never been" work in you all the accomplishment, growth and healing that is your potential at this moment in your life. Philippians 1:6 comes to my mind, for those who might be moved by a Christian witness:

I am confident of this, that the One who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ.

Life Coaching and Your Personal Epiphany

2009-01-07T07:57:00.000-08:00

A Personal Affirmation for Epiphany

I am clearing out old confusion and doubt so that I can see the miracles today and participate in the recovery of the universe.

As you dare to see that you have been ruled by old programming, know that new truths and positive, healthy thoughts are taking its place! Know that you are in the process of moving forward, and while doing so you are helping others in this universe to move forward too. Miracles begin to happen when we sit still and begin to look within. Let those miracles be there for you today!

The above meditation was adapted from Peace in Our Hearts, Peace in the World: Meditations of Hope and Healing, by Ruth Fishel (Sterling, 2007). I received it from Beliefnet.com, a wonderful site to check out if you don't know about it.

It strikes me that "clearing old confusion and doubt so that I can see..." is EXACTLY what life coaching is about. I coach people who find themselves in a wide variety of challenging times; together we embrace new, positive truths that support lives of faith, intention and service. Do you have a gap between intention and reality? Do you find yourself experiencing roadblocks you need help to move past? Do you have a challenging dilemma for which you need support in living your values?

Call or email me today to explore whether I might be able to help. We'll put our full attention on your desires, values and potential for 3-6 months. If we're not a good match, I'll help you find someone else who can best support you.

Make 2009 a year of miracles for you and all those you love!

For Good News,

Jacki
773.655.4357
jacki@livingwellministries.net

I Behold the Christ in You

2009-01-06T07:17:00.000-08:00

Happy Epiphany!

I give thanks today for the example of the magi, and will be reflecting on and off-line this week about their lessons for my life.

I also give thanks for this hymn, which I learned from the Unity hymnal and used on a number of special occasions while I pastored Grace Baptist Church in Chicago (2000-2007). It's based on a poem by Frank B. Whitney. I think it gives us a deeper message about living the life Christ lived (and not just standing around adoring him!) It's my prayer that I can continue "beholding" as he did, and that our work together in the programs of Living Well Ministries will help you and others to do so as well.

I Behold the Christ in You

I behold the Christ in you,
Here the life of God I see;
I can see a great peace too,
I can see you whole and free.

I behold the Christ in you,
I can see this as you walk;
I see this in all you do,
I can see this as you talk.

I behold God's love expressed,
I can see you filled with power;
I can see you ever blessed,
I see Christ in you hour by hour.

I behold the Christ in you,
I can see that perfect one;
Led by God in all you do,
I can see God's work is done.

New Stars in a New Year

2009-01-05T08:44:00.000-08:00

I found this delightful poem in the Christian Science Monitor last week. I wish I'd seen it in early December, but it captures my mood - longing and resolve - yet today. Such gems are never really too late... so, Happy December AND Happy New Year!

December's voice
beats against my window
demands my attention

this insistent voice
shouts and strains
in the winter darkness:

something about wonder
that flutters into my
ice-shuttered world

something about hope
that asks me to perceive
a glow beyond the gloom

something about light
that shines on ravens' wings
and midnight snow

something about joy
that joins me
as I stoke the fire

this old familiar voice
asks me to carve new stars
in a lackluster sky

and bids me listen
for a baby's new-life cry
in my weary heart.

December, you
deceive me:
you are not the
end
of the year. You are the
start.

-- Maril Crabtree
published in the The Christian Science Monitor, December 22, 2008

Busy AND Rested in the New Year?

2009-01-05T06:50:00.001-08:00

These excerpts are from the devotional column of the Christian Science Monitor, December 18, 2008 (gender-inclusive language mine).

... By the beginning of January, people are often longing for rest. But the calendar doesn't have to change before this yearning is satisfied. It's possible to be very busy and yet feel peaceful and rested. And it's a matter of thought.

..."tireless Being" is a name Mary Baker Eddy used to describe God in a sermon... This tireless Being is the source of all activity, energy, and provision. Christ Jesus drew on this spiritual source while he carried out his mission, and so can we in our daily lives...

It's very probable that Jesus had a different definition of activity from what is generally held. Maybe doing was for him not so much about exertion as it was a keen awareness of the might, power, and ability of the Divine, with whom he was well acquainted. Maybe accomplishment was more a matter of yielding to God's direction, control and heavenly impetus, rather than personal productivity and the push that's so often associated with it. Through more selfless prayer, it's possible to attain a more spiritual sense that God is the animator, the doer, and that God's creation reflects this ability. This can make what may be considered too hard, taxing or tiring work something quite different.

... it's possible for us to look in a more Christly way at to-do lists...

The column goes on with some helpful ideas to make this practical. What comes to mind for you? I pray this refreshing message will take root for you in whatever way you need!

Starting Over...

2009-01-04T08:07:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Beliefnet for this inspiring "Quote of the Day." Happy New Year!

Vitality shows in not only the ability to persist but the ability to start over.-F. Scott Fitzgerald

Invoking the Future

2008-12-22T05:52:00.000-08:00

In March, I met Tiffany Montavon of Faith@Work (www.faithatwork.com). This wonderful project and magazine are dedicated to helping people explore gifts and callings as we do God's work in our daily lives. Here's a breath-taking poem written for the Summer 2008 issue by Klaus Luthardt.

Invoking the Future

Oh Christ, who are the breath
of God when love is foremost,
Inspired Word, you have come forth
many times; come forth even now
into the heart of God's child,
the human race. Demonstrate
in us the gifts of the spirit,
making the minds, merely bright,
fit instruments of helping and healing,
applying knowledge through love.
Come and be in us, be among us,
great inspiration, breath divine
whose essence makes us new
with every in-breath of our soul,
then emanates from us, exhalation
of your healing through us.
Let us, instruments of your love,
pass on to all we meet, the secret of goodness.
In thought, in word, in deed, let us labor
in the sound of your sacred word.

Live As If...

2008-12-21T05:38:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure if that is the exact title of this invitational poem by Marge Piercy. I discovered it in announcements fragments I've been hording this fall from my church, Lake Street Church of Evanston.

Live as if you liked yourself, and it
may happen:
reach out, keep reaching out, keep
bringing in.
This is how we're going to live for a
long time: not always,
for every gardener knows that after the
digging, after the planting,
after the long season of tending and
growth, the harvest comes.

Okay, so maybe this is a little pre-adventish. Fall and harvest themes, after all. It's the living "as if" that touches my feelings about Christ's advent, though. It's the reaching, the digging, the planting. Back to the "waiting and working" advent spirituality I mentioned last week. I do not celebrate an advent or christmas that is merely going through the ritual motions of One birth long ago, like some childish reenactment. I celebrate, wait, and work, because indeed in Divine Nature's rhythms that age-old birth - like planting, digging, tending -- comes and comes and comes again.

To Repair and Heal the World (tikkun!)

2008-12-20T05:23:00.000-08:00

Father Richard Rohr is one of many precious print mentors of mine. His work to lead us in yoking contemplation and action in this world has been a great gift to me. It influenced an advent sermon series I preached a few years back: "Waiting and Working." We wait, yes, for the Hope and Peace that is so beyond us; and we work, too, to fulfill our leadings and live into what we know in the meantime.

The announcement below highlights the opportunity to participate in a telephone conversation on 12/22 with Father Rohr. It's sponsored by Tikkun's Network of Spiritual Progressives Forum (to which I belong). I hope you'll consider calling in!

********************************

It's that time of year again...

For those overwhelmed by the holiday flood of parties, jingles, and rampant consumption, Father Richard Rohr offers his perspective on how we (mis)celebrate religious holidays, and in particular Christmas. Besides critiquing the holiday's modern culture of consumption, Rohr examines the history of Christmas, and how it relates to the holy days of other faiths.

A Franciscan priest and founder of the Center for Action and Contemplation, Father Rohr is a regular columnist for Tikkun, pushing the boundaries of Catholicism, and spirituality in general. If you haven't seen his article in the November/December 2008 issue of Tikkun, click here-and after you've read it, call in to our Tikkun/NSP Phone Forum, Monday December 22nd, 9pm EST/6pm PST.Just call 1 888 346 3950 and ENTER CODE 11978

Tikkun Managing Editor Dave Belden will interview Richard Rohr for twenty minutes, then he'll take questions from YOU!The Tikkun/NSP Phone Forum is meant for current members of the NSP/Tikkun Community and/or current subscribers to Tikkun. If you have not yet joined, you can do so now. Just go to www.spiritualprogressives.org and become a member (with membership comes a free subscription to Tikkun). Or, if you are not yet ready to join, then subscribe to the magazine here. The Tikkun/NSP Phone Forum works much better when you have already read the article in Tikkun before joining the call, and is meant as a gift to our members and subscribers.

MONDAYS, 6 p.m. PST (9 p.m. EST)Upcoming Forums:

Jan 5: An Economy for the 21st Century - David Korten
Jan 12: Coming Out … Again - Idit Klein
Jan 21: Wednesday Inaugrural Special! Just back from DC, Michael Lerner and Peter Gabel on the Obama Inauguration
Jan 26: Engaging Obama's Volunteers - Randy Shaw
Feb 2: Riane Eisler
Feb 16: Bob Pollin

If you missed a forum, you can find podcasts of previous episodes here!

Or click the link below:

Dec. 1: Childhood & Capitalism - Allen Kanner
Dec. 8: Obama's Emotional Intelligence - Peter Dunlap
Dec. 15: Israel/Palestine: Tom Friedman's Myths - Jerome Slater

Please note that in the N/D 2008 print magazine we did not include the access code. Please make a note of it from this email!

Turning: Words Heard from Within

2008-12-17T05:32:00.000-08:00

I will be rushing to my local independent book store next week to get this 1994 book I just learned of. Yes, just a snippet of a poem can move me enough to do so!

Here's an offering that I've been savoring this week from author Claire Blatchford:

The other side of sorrow is joy.
When you can raise your sorrow
above bitterness, above disappointment, above pain,
to the light --
a birth occurs.
In heaven the angels rejoice.
Those who have died are fed.
On earth the very soul is made new.

Light One Candle for This...

2008-12-16T08:49:00.000-08:00

I'm thinking about Emmanuel this day. One of my pastors, Larry Greenfield of the American Baptist Churches of Metro Chicago, gave a beautiful introduction to Advent and Christmas at a concert last Saturday. My paraphrase: This is a special time of the year in part because we dedicate ourselves to remember that Emmanuel has come, so that we know "God is always with us."

This morning's quote from my colleague Melissa Malueg reminds me of the same:

Today's Words of Wisdom:"Instead of believing the world is plotting to do you harm, choose to believe the world is plotting to do you good. Instead of seeing every difficult or challenging event as a negative, see it for what it could be – something that is meant to enrich you, empower you, or advance your causes.”-- W. Clement Stone

I commit this Advent to continuing to cultivate a spirituality and community that are fearlessly living in such trust...

Let In Your Child Tonight...

2008-12-12T20:21:00.001-08:00

Thanks to a dear friend for passing this on this advent...

From the Liturgy of the Hours – According to the Roman Rite (Catholic Book Publishing Co, NY, 1975) – Appendix IV: Poetry - Northumbrian Sequence IV

Let in the wind,
Let in the rain,
Let in the moors tonight,

The storm beats on my window-pane,
Night stands at my bed-foot,
Let in the pain,
Let in the trees that toss and groan,
Let in the north tonight.
Let in the nameless formless power
That beats upon my door,
Let in the ice, let in the snow,
The banshee howling on the moor,
The bracken-bush on the bleak hillside.
Let in the dead tonight.

Let in the cold,
Let in the wet,
Let in the loneliness,
Let in the quick,
Let in the dead,
Let in the unpeopled skies.

Oh how can virgin fingers weave
A covering for the void,
How can my fearful heart conceive
Gigantic solitude?
How can a house so small contain
A company so great?
Let in the dark,
Let in the dead,
Let in your love tonight.

Let in the snow that numbs the grave,
Let in the acorn-tree,
The mountain stream and mountain stone,
Let in the bitter sea.
Fearful is my virgin heart
And frail my virgin form,
And must I then take pity on
The raging of the storm
That rose up from the great abyss
Before the earth was made,
That pours the stars in cataracts
And shakes this violent world?

Let in the fire,
Let in the power,
Let in the invading might.

Gentle must my fingers be
And pitiful my heart
Since I must bind in human form
A living power so great,
A living impulse great and wild
That cries about my house
With all the violence of desire
Desiring this my peace.

Pitiful my heart must hold
The lonely starts at rest,
Have pity on the raven’s cry,
The torrent and the eagle’s wing,
The icy water of the tarn
And on the biting blast.

Let in the wound,
Let in the pain,
Let in your child tonight.

Kathleen Raine

How Do We Seek Justice - Good Question For Every Advent Day

2008-12-11T08:34:00.000-08:00

This thought-provoking excerpt is from Linnea Nilsen Capshaw of Deep Shift:

..."How do we seek Justice?"

This Advent Season is important as we anticipate the birth of Jesus and as we contemplate this question.Yesterday was the 40th anniversary of Thomas Merton's death.

This excerpt is from Joan Chittister's book, Merton: The Enlightened Heart:

"Merton sowed seeds of contemplation that led to action---an often forgotten but always bedrock spiritual concept. In Jewish spirituality, for instance, two concepts dominate and are intertwined: The one, devekut, translates as "clinging to God" or contemplation; the other, tikkun o'lam, translates "repairing the world" the work of justice.

One without the other---contemplation without justice, clinging to mystery without repairing the real world---is unfinished, the tradition teaches, is dark without light, is grand without great, is soul without body. Contemplation, Merton teaches us, is learning to see the world as God sees the world. The contemplative sees the world through the eyes of God and the real contemplative is driven to respond according to the mind of God for it. Clinging to God, in other words, generates the passion it takes to repair the world."

These Jewish concepts and the Christian concepts Merton discusses are similar to a challenging New Testament scripture passages: Faith without works is dead (James 2:17). Just as clinging to God without working for justice is unfinished, so too our faith without works is dead. After participating in 12 EMC Tour stops this year, I cannot stop thinking about the question in the song, "How do we seek Justice?", knowing that it requires contemplation and action, clinging and works.

The book, To Do Justice: A Guide for Progressive Christians, by Peters and Hinson-Hasty, provides some instruction and ideas on how to seek justice, to repair the world. Here are some quotes that are inspiring me as I begin reading:

"The mission of the church in the public forum is to continue the work of healing, restoration, and reconciliation within God's creation.In this book we articulate a vision for how churches can be engaged with public life in ways that help address social problems in our world. Along the way we share with you critical social analysis of these same problems. We ground our suggestions for action in a theology that challenges Christians to love their neighbors by addressing their concrete material needs and by transforming the structures in our society that prevent them from making ends meet and flourishing in the way that God hopes for all creation.Living as Christians in a pluralistic world requires that we work together with other people of faith and the larger community to address the social problems that hinder people from living lives of fullness and integrity."

As you wait this year to celebrate the birth of Jesus, I hope you take time to contemplate, cling to God, so you may see where you are called to work with others for justice, to repair the world.

Deep peace and joy to you,
Linnea

Some More on Hope and Work

2008-12-07T10:00:00.000-08:00

This is another terrific example of the work of hope: white people dedicated to self-understanding and understanding of systemic racial privilege. I've know Melanie Morrison for fifteen years. She is an incredible dedicated, gifted "ally for change." Check out Allies for Change at the link below, as well as the Leaven Center, a retreat center for all kinds of spirituality and social justice trainings.

Melanie S. Morrison, Director
Allies for Change
http://www.alliesforchange.org/
517-230-6727

Doing Our Own Work: A Seminar for Anti-Racist White People
February 13-16, 2009 and March 27-30, 2009 at The Leaven Center

For 15 consecutive years, Doing Our Own Work has a provided a unique context for white people who seek to deepen their commitment to confronting and challenging white racism. Offering more than 40 hours of “class time,” Doing Our Own Work equips white people with the analysis, skills, and tools needed to be more effective anti-racist allies with people of color and to help bring about institutional change. People from communities all across North America have taken part in this intensive seminar. Here is what some of those participants say about the experience:

“Doing Our Own Work is life-changing. It has affected my choice of where to live, what do with my life, where my priorities lie, everything.”

“After attending Doing Our Own Work, I am much more willing to take risks as a white person when working alongside of, and in solidarity with, people of color.”

“Doing Our Own Work gave me a broader and deeper knowledge of anti-racism, white privilege, my people’s history, and the way oppression functions.”

If you are a white person who is ready and eager to do some deep, soul-stretching, and exhilarating work with other white anti-racist allies, Doing Our Own Work is the place for you!
The Doing Our Own Work seminar is designed as a supplement to, not a substitute for, contexts where people of diverse races and ethnicities discuss and strategize together how racism can be challenged. Utilizing input from the leaders, reading assignments, videos, group discussion, and structured exercises, we will explore the following topics and issues:

Individual racism, institutional racism, and cultural racism
White privilege and unearned advantage
Claiming and shaping an anti-racist identity
How to be an effective anti-racist ally
Discerning our spiritual resources for change
Practicing the skills of interrupting racism
Strategies for institutional change

Providing more than 40 hours of "class time," the seminar utilizes an action/reflection method of learning: our study and reflection will be grounded in anti-racist action and our action will be strengthened and refined by reflection, study, and conversation. The action/reflection components of this seminar will include:

Identification by each participant of a "sphere of influence" or constituency that will serve as her/his focus during the seminar;

Assessment of where and how racism is present in this constituency;

Development of an action plan and time table that identifies ways that the participant can work, in collaboration with others, to challenge white racism and strengthen anti-racist commitment in her/his constituency;

Checking in with the group to receive feedback and encouragement and to amend the action plan where appropriate;

Keeping a journal of daily experiences, insights, concerns, and questions regarding racism and anti-racism.

The facilitators are committed to working with the participants to create a respectful and truth-telling environment where we may bring our whole selves to this vitally important work.
This event is gender inclusive.

Leaders: Melanie Morrison and Aaron Wilson-AhlstromTime: Friday, 7 pm – Monday, 1 pm . Attendance at both extended weekends is required.Cost: $675 ($100 deposit and $575 balance due. The balance may be paid in installments extending beyond the close of the seminar). The cost includes program, resource materials, lodging, and meals for two extended weekends.

Melanie Morrison is Director of Allies for Change and a seasoned anti-oppression educator and activist with 20 years experience designing and facilitating transformational group process. Melanie is passionate about working with individuals and organizations to better understand the connections between systemic oppressions and to nurture collaborative action and authentic relationship across differences such as race, age, gender, abilities, and sexual orientation. She believes it is possible to grow ever more aware of the depth and complexity of injustice without surrendering our capacity for compassion, joy, and hope. She has led numerous anti-racism seminars and workshops. This will be her 15th year of facilitating the Doing Our Own Work seminar.

Aaron Wilson-Ahlstrom is a teacher who is passionate about the role of schools in working for social justice. He works for the Henry Ford Learning Institute, a non-profit that is developing a network of small, innovative charter schools based on the Henry Ford Academy in Dearborn, Michigan. Aaron believes that racism is present everywhere and, while it does not oppress white people, it does damage them by making white people complicit in the oppression of people of color. He sees anti-racism work as critically important if white people are regain their collective humanity. In addition to being a facilitator of Doing Our Own Work, Aaron is a community training partner with the Michigan State University Extension multicultural awareness program.

The Leaven Center in Lyons, Michigan is midway between Lansing and Grand Rapids. The main floor of the Lodge and Guest House are barrier-free. The center is located on 25 beautiful acres of land and the meeting room in the Lodge faces the Grand River.

You may register online with a credit card or download a registration form at The Leaven Center web site: www.leaven.org. For more information about The Leaven Center or to inquire about partial scholarships, call 989-855-2606 or email leavencenter@leaven.org.

Living Within Our Means

2008-12-07T09:00:00.000-08:00

I'm off today to a gathering that promises to unite many who care about peace, hope, and the wise work that cultivates them. Check out the Parliament of World Religion's Chicago event:

Living Within Our Means: The Wisdom of Our Traditions for a Changing World.

Blessed be!

Spiritual Literacy - The WORK of Hope

2008-12-06T19:17:00.000-08:00

Check out Frederic and Mary Ann Brussat's bestselling book Spiritual Literacy, an unprecedented collection of "aha!" passages by teachers of all spiritual traditions that reveal the sacred meanings in today's world. There's also a 6-set DVD collection putting the beautiful passages to music and stunning visuals. Visit: http://www.spiritualityandpractice.com/spiritualliteracy/.

My musings this week about hope, connection and gratitude lead me one step further. Such a landscape (and the tireless journey of walking it) is no cakewalk. These are no liberal touchy-feely buzz words. I can't experience the surges of hope, the whispers of hope, or the sturdy carrying on of hope unless I do some work. That work includes attention, and all the habits that cultivate it. That work includes literacy -- about my Self, my tradition and culture, and the deep understanding of others' values and experiences. Perhaps that's why this incredible Spiritual Literacy Project has touched me so this week. I HOPE you'll check it out.

What Stirs Hope Today?

2008-12-05T22:00:00.000-08:00

Why might hope be stirring in me today, this sixth day of Advent?

... because I got an email from David Plouff announcing that our new President is inviting us to host house meetings across the land, to continue the work of shaping what WE together can do to bring change to this land and our collective spirit.

... because my dear friend, after a long and winding journey toward ordination, has encountered the Holy Spirit in Baptist colleagues and potential mentors, and has found this day affirmation, trust, respect.

... because a long, leisurely dinner with another restored me so very much, and reminded my SENSES what a treasure my/our time is.

... because so many care about making a difference, and I choose to watch and work with them while I pray for those who can't yet care.

Hope is not wishful thinking, because wishful thinking lacks evidence. Hope is a force that counts as evidence those things which despair does not. They might be mundane, dismissed, or even threatening to the forces of oppression:

-- small things, like house meetings
-- staying power on a winding journey, and those who give it due honor
-- delightful conversation (including, among other things, "Conversations with God")
-- the internet's ability to introduce me to inspiring, visionary work around the world

As I write this, I am mindful that there is some deep connection between hope and gratitude, or at least the attention that leads potentially to gratitude. If hope arises, if it wells up within us instead of landing upon us, perhaps it is because even in the coldest, most desolate places there is yet a seedling of gratitude. Hope rises despite the odds (and some powers and principalities and their stories). Hope rises because a felt connection (gratitude) is made between need and God's vast resources of potential.

Blessed be!

HOPE in "Renewal" (Interfaith Documentary on Green Endeavors)

2008-12-04T07:00:00.000-08:00

This documentary sounds INCREDIBLE. Just what I needed for this, the fifth day of advent. There is so much that can stir our hope, if we just notice. If we just spread the word... Thanks to the Plainviews e-newsletter and reviewer Sarah Masters for this:

Renewal

Across the U.S., there is a growing interfaith call for environmental activism. Veteran filmmakers Marty Ostrow and Terry Kay Rockefeller, in their recently released documentary Renewal, have captured the efforts of numerous religious communities to “preserve what they see as God's creation.”

The producers film Muslims, Christians, Buddhists and Jews, among others, actively tackling a range of environmental issues from sustainable farming to mountaintop removal.
Ostrow and Rockefeller create eight vignettes, or short documentaries that can be viewed separately in this 90-minute film, that focus on groups ranging from Going Green, a movement that teaches congregations how to become more environmentally aware, to Food for Faith, which connects city dwellers in different religious communities with sustainable farming efforts.

Ostrow and Rockefeller have also launched The Renewal Project, which is dedicated to creation of alliances between secular and religious groups, and the filmmakers have put out a call for everyone from chaplains to local governments to join what they call The Renewal Circle. Members of The Renewal Circle will receive advance copies of the film Renewal to help spread the word, along with suggestions on how best to use the film as a teaching tool. To find out more about The Renewal Circle, go to http://renewalproject.net/join/.
____________________________
Completed: 2007Running Time: 90 MinutesProducers: Marty Ostrow and Terry Kay Rockefeller
If you are interested in purchasing this film, you can do so at http://www.renewalproject.net/dvd.

Sarah Masters is the Managing Director of the Hartley Film Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to production, cultivation, support and distribution of the best documentaries on world religions and spirituality.

Why Shouldn't We

2008-12-03T14:35:00.000-08:00

These words (below) and music were written by Mary Chapin Carpenter and can be heard on her exquisite album The Calling. They remind me of the Divine Inheritance I believe to be all of ours, an inheritance of hope, connection and compassion. Yes, I know so many things get in the way of feeling hope, of trusting and resting in hope... but with MCC I choose to believe that there is tremendous hope deep within us, always keeping us going.

Perhaps instead of considering Christ to be the object of our hope, Christians would be more faithful to embrace life in him with gratitude for his timeless ability to stir up our living well of hope, to raise us up in the power to dwell in its nourishing springs. That would indeed be an advent of a New Creation.

Why shouldn't we?

We believe in things that we cannot see
Why shouldn't we, why shouldn't we
Hands that heal can set a chained man free
Why shouldn't we, why shouldn't we

We believe in peace within every heart
Why shouldn't we, why shouldn't we
Burning brightly, brightly in the dark
Why shouldn't we, why shouldn't we

Chorus:
So come on darling feel your spirits rise
Come on children open up your eyes
God is all around
Buddha's at the gate
Allah hears your prayers
It's not too late

And we believe in things that will give us hope
Why shouldn't we, why shouldn't we
Let your voice be heard, celebrate your vote
Why shouldn't we, why shouldn't we

Chorus

We believe in things that make us all the same
Why shouldn't we, why shouldn't we
Love belongs to all in deed and name
Why shouldn't we, why shouldn't we
And we believe in things that can't be done
Why shouldn't we, why shouldn't we
Lift up your heart, put down your gun
Why shouldn't we, why shouldn't we

We believe in things
We're told that we cannot change
Why shouldn't we
We had heroes once, and we will again
Why shouldn't we
So come on darling
Come on children
God is all around,
Buddha's at the gate
Allah hears our prayers
It's not too late

Chorus

Why shouldn't we
Why shouldn't we
Why shouldn't we
Why shouldn't we
Why shouldn't we

The Impossible Will Take a While...

2008-12-02T14:12:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine reminded me today of this great book, which I won't get to THIS advent. But, wow, check out the website at http://www.paulloeb.org/newimp/impindex.htm. Here's a little teaser:

From Paul Rogat Loeb, author of Soul of a Citizen, comes a collection of fifty moving essays from Maya Angelou, Marian Wright Edelman, Jim Hightower, Jonathan Kozol, Tony Kushner, Nelson Mandela, Alice Walker, Cornel West and others who explore the path of community involvement that leads beyond despair to compassion and hope, inspiring us all to work for a better world.

My friend's church is using it in an adult ed discussion group, and says it's working beautifully. No wonder it resonates; we need not only hope but reminders of what hope is and is NOT. It looks like these essays flesh out a hope that is about vision and staying power, resilience and communal habits of anticipation-in-action. Watch for details in the winter; it may turn up in a LWM series in Easter season...

Yearnings - A Great Book for Advent

2008-12-01T13:37:00.000-08:00

I am savoring Rabbi Irwin Kula's book Yearnings: Embracing the Sacred Messiness of Life for the third time in as many years. It's a terrific mix of reflections on Hebrew Bible characters, Jewish wisdom traditions and contemporary life.

(I first read it a few years back as a part of my fall discipline of reading Hebrew Bible stories, wisdom and prophetic literature (in and beyond the Protestant canon) as well as contemporary Jewish authors. Through this study discipline, I prepare myself for advent by immersing myself in the social and religious experiences of my faith ancestors, at least those who lived in the few centuries before Christ's birth. I am reminded of the key themes and characters, as well as the pride and pains of the Jewish people who so yearned for the kingdom of God, and the Messiah who would inaugurate it. This year, I've re-read Daniel, Sirach and will read Isaiah next...)

Anyway, here are a few lines from early in Kula's book:

"Keep two pieces of paper in your pockets at all times. One that says 'I am a speck of dust.' And, the other, 'The world was created for me.'" -- Rabbi Bunim of P'shiskha

"These traditions are meant to be lived, yet much of ther wisdom is buried under centuries of dogma...the need to be right is winning out over the search."

"The quest for self is the contemporary search for God."

"Jewish wisdom encourages us to be sacred skeptics. Many think skepticism is paralyzing, hopeless, cynical; but it's the opposite. Skepticism inspires us to know more. Skepticism can be revelatory. When we both hold and question our truths we become lifelong learners rather than absolute knowers... not seduced by certainty, we can be open to the truth."

"All new understandings take time to emerge and blossom. The word "Israel" means "wrestling with God." In other words, discovering again and again the truth, reality, God -- whatever we chose to call it -- stretches and deepens our lives and enlivens and expands our moral universe. New truths may challenge us or make us uncomfortable for a while but they always bring us to the next level of understanding. After all, there is no final arrival in life, but rather a series of arrivals..."

Why does Kula's book touch me so? I think because it humanizes our faith journeys - individually and collectively -- in ways that I and so many others need. He writes about our yearnings for truth, meaning, the way, love, creation, happiness and transcendence. In looking to scriptures and his own messy, beautiful life, Kula guides us in the task of taking our own places within the Searching Story (that's my capitalization there). Along the way, there's so much beauty, fragility, gift, brokenness, mystery and providence. And grace. It's a Graced Searching Story. That's where I want to be when I greet the good news of the Anointed One I welcome in Advent...

Advent Hymn for Hope

2008-11-30T12:59:00.000-08:00

I'm feeling connected to our faith ancestors this advent...

We sang this beautiful hymn this morning at Lake Street Church on the first Sunday in Advent. Sometimes I think I'm a rare bird in my generation, with such a love of hymns. (I love NEW music, too, and happen think the church and world need us to write new music and lyrics). This morning, I appreciated all the music that has abided for generations. We lit the advent candle of hope. I'm grateful for the hope which has seen our foremothers and fathers through; their testimonies and accomplishments nourish my own.

All my hope on God is founded;
God doth still my trust renew,
me through change and chance does guideth,
only good and only true.
God unknown, God alone calls my heart to be her own.

Pride of man and earthly glory,
sword and crown betray our trust;
what with care and toil we buildeth,
tower and temple fall to dust.
But God's power,hour by hour,
is my temple and my tower.

God's great goodness aye endureth,
deep Her wisdom, passing thought:
splendor, light and life attend Her,
beauty springeth out of naught.
Evermore
from Her store
newborn worlds rise and adore.

Daily doth the almighty Giver
bounteous gifts on us bestow;
Her desire our soul delighteth,
pleasure leads us where we go.
Love doth stand at Her hand;
joy doth wait on Her command.

Still from us to God eternal
sacrifice of praise be done,
high above all praises praising
for the gift of Christ, Her Son.
Christ doth call one and all:
ye who follow shall not fall.

Words: Robert Bridges (1844-1930);based on the German on Joachim Neander (1650-1680);
inclusive language edits mine.

Advent 2008 - A New Day at the Well

2008-11-29T07:47:00.000-08:00

For a few months, I've been anticipating this Advent. For all the reasons I normally do -- nostalgia, ritual, justice, community, and my own solitary walk with the Christ Child. And, because I've entrusted my own creative stirrings for writing and dialogue on this new blog to the rhythm of this transcendent liturgical calender. "I'll start writing (and compiling) in Advent..." That's what I've been saying, and the fullness of time has come!

Observance of Advent brings forth many yearnings and dreams and practices in Christian communities. In the coming days, I'll construct my second annual home advent wreath, and circle my attentions around the lights of hope-love-peace-joy that unite me to loved ones across time and space. I'll share here a reading and praying discipline of mine in recent years: to immerse myself in the Hebrew Bible, apocrypha and contemporary Jewish authors as I prepare for advent and Christmas. I'll bear witness to signs of hope in this world of despair, evidence of Immanuel in the midst of empire. I'll return with anticipation to learn of your own discoveries and questions. I'll share some of the Word-made-flesh that has etched itself in this life I live and strive to share. Yes, Advent still seems like a good time for this particular new birth...

"Living well" means nurturing our lives of faith, intention and service. For that, we need the wisdom of (and about) our faith traditions; we need the wisdom of the Living One who teaches us to faithfully give ourselves to and for Good News today; we need the wisdom of communities which shape us and call out our gifts in service to our brothers and sisters. Thank you in advance for what you will bring in December 2008 and beyond to this forum of Living Well Ministries.

As this year's Advent commences, I look forward to sharing some of the life-giving inspiration in my pre-advent reading this Fall. I've journeyed thus far with Daniel, Sirach and a wonderful book by Rabbi Irwin Kula entitled Yearnings: Embracing the Sacred Messiness of Life.

More on that on Monday!

For Peace and Good News,

Rev. Jacki Belile
www.livingwellministries.net