Pastor’s Corner (5/24/2020)

“As much as we need a prosperous economy, we also need a prosperity of kindness and decency.”                                             

Caroline Kennedy

 I was struck by the above quote in my Gratitude calendar last week. As we struggle to discern the date for resuming public worship at First Christian, concerns about our life in general swirl around us. As we begin to gradually reopen and venture out, we are influenced by a number of factors. The economic wellbeing of our community and nation is part of the equation. The church is also affected economically by all that has been happening. However, there is so much more to consider, particularly for the Church. Kennedy’s quote reminds us that we are called to a prosperity of kindness and decency. So, what does that look like for us? A huge factor for us is a concern for the vulnerable in our midst. In reality, there are so many who would be grievously harmed by contracting this virus. Not only those of us over 60, but anyone with health concerns, which describes most of us on one level or another. These days challenge us to consider how we might share an prosperity of kindness and decency. We do this through our actions: by calling one another, sending off cards and notes, by dropping off needed supplies or through our participation in a Zoom call. We also do this in our restraint: by keeping physical distancing and staying at home. Not only do we reap the benefits of a “prosperity of kindness and decency, we help such prosperity grow.

I think the quote for this past Monday 18 May, reminds us of the true meaning of prosperity and the heart of gratitude.

 

“Do we really need much more than this?

To honor the dawn.

To visit a garden.

To talk to a friend.

To contemplate a cloud.

To cherish a meal.

To bow our heads before the mystery of the day.

Are these not enough?”

Kent Nerburn

 

Nerburn is an author who strives to draw out an “authentic American spirituality.” He draws on Native American spirituality and points the reader to an appreciation of God’s presence in nature. While both these quotes were chosen well before the arrival of COVID-19, they seem poignantly appropriate now.

May we embrace the prosperity of kindness and decency as we enjoy the life and world God has given us.

 

In love and peace,

Pastor Karen