restaurando la belleza - ucc filessemana de la mujer 2011 restaurando la belleza...

WINTER 2011 • No. 121Journal supporting and strengthening the mission of the Congregational Vitality and

Discipleship Ministry Team, Local Church Ministries, and United Church of Christ Women in Mission

common lot

SEE INSIDE – exciting new feature! • VEr El INtErIor – nueva característica emocionante!

Wom

en’s

Wee

k 20

11Re

storin

g Be

auty

Semana de la Mujer 2011Restaurando la Belleza

Semana de la Mujer 2011Restaurando la Belleza

Wom

en’s Week 2011

Restoring Beauty

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CoMMon LoT Winter 2011 • no. 121COMMON LOT welcomes unsolicited submission of articles, poetry, artwork, and resources. Manuscripts should be typed and double-spaced. If possible, submit via e-mail, or post to the address below.COMMON LOT resources are published quarterly. Statements of fact and opinion are the responsibility of the authors alone and do not necessarily reflect those of the United Church of Christ. Any part of COMMON LOT can be reproduced. The subscription rate is $24.00 annually for electronic and $34.00 for print subscriptions through a Women in Mission partnership. To order single copies $1.00 (quantity 1–5), .75 (quantity 6–10), .65 (11–15), .50 (quantity 16–up) plus shipping and handling. Call 1-800-537-3394.Address all correspondence to COMMON LOT, Congregational Vitality and Discipleship Ministry Team; 700 Prospect Ave. E # 844; Cleveland OH 44115-1100. Tel. 216-736-3876; Fax 216-736-2281; editorial e-mail to [email protected]; ssubscription e-mail to [email protected] scripture texts printed in COMMON LOT are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible, unless otherwise stated. All hymns printed in COMMON LOT are from The New Century Hymnal, unless otherwise credited.Printed on recycled paper.

common lot 4 Sharing our Common Lot DEBORAH BAILEy

5 Planning for Women’s Week KATHRyN MATTHEWS HUEy

6 Service Prayers REV. SUSAN BLAIN

7 Holy Communion DEBORAH DEE BRAyTON

8 Monday LIzETTE MERCHAN

9 Tuesday DR. WILLIE MAE HAWKINS

10 Wednesday DONNA COONEy

11 Thursday REV. BRENDA BURNEy

12 Friday REV. DEBORAH TATE BREAULT

13 Saturday DONNA COONEy

14 Lunes LIzETTE MERCHAN

15 Martes DR. WILLIE MAE HAWKINS

16 Miércoles DONNA COONEy

17 Jueves REV. BRENDA BURNEy

18 Viernes REV. DEBORAH TATE BREAULT

19 Sábado DONNA COONEy

20 Women in Justice: Beauty Reconsidered LOEy POWELL

21 Women in International Ministry: Much Will Be Required ANA GOBLEDALE

Published by the United Church of Christ Local Church Ministries

DEBORAH BAILEy Minister for Women’s Concerns & Editor

DIANE BENNEKAMPER Chair, Local Church Ministries

Board of Directors

WWW.UCC.ORG/WOMEN

Women’s Week 2011

Restoring Beauty

Semana de la Mujer 2011

Restaurando la Belleza


common lot common lot

Journal supporting and strengthening the mission of the Congregational Vitality and Discipleship Ministry Team, Local Church Ministries, and United Church of Christ Women in Mission

COMMON LOT & Women In MissionWomen in Mission Partners enjoy 30% off the list price of Pilgrim Press books and the quarterly journal COMMON LOT, which addresses a variety of issues of concern to women.

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FALL 2010 • No. 120Journal supporting and strengthening the mission of the Congregational Vitality and

Discipleship Ministry Team, Local Church Ministries, and United Church of Christ Women in Mission

common lot

SEE INSIDE – exciting new feature!


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beauty, but what about our inner, spiritual beauty? If we consider the words from Matthew, “let your light shine”, just exactly how do we go about letting our light shine? What is your inner beauty and how do you reflect your shining light for others to recognize? I hope as you read the daily meditations in this Women’s Week issue you will be reminded not only of your inner beauty, but that of those around you. When I think of the really beautiful people in my life, not many would be considered “real lookers” but just a few minutes in the presence of any of them and you’d clearly understand what the writer of Matthew is telling us about letting our light shine.

My prayer for Women’s Week is that each of us will take some time and reflect on the women who have offered illumination on life’s path for us at times when we most needed it. Perhaps for your offering this week you can look for new ways to pay forward and let your light shine; offering gifts to a world desperately in need of more light.

Blessings as you prepare for Women’s Week 2011.

At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person.

We think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within.

—Albert Schweitzer

I GREW UP in a family known for extoling lots of wonderful,

little proverbial sayings. Although some may consider these little platitudes of life’s lessons to be overly simplistic, I must admit most of them have served me well in my adult years. For instance, I will always remember my grandmother telling me, more times than I can count, “actions speak louder than words”; or the other way she would say that phrase is, “pretty is as pretty does”. In today’s world I’ve found those little clichés to be true more times than not, and invaluable in helping me assess the genuine traits of an individual.

As a child I recall my mother would respond to my cranky moments by reminding me that “you catch more flies with honey than with vinegar”. While I usually wasn’t interested in catching flies, hearing her say it did alter my mood and make me laugh. As an adult, many times that funny little phrase has echoed in my mind as a sharp reminder when I need to make an attitude adjustment about whatever is bothering me at that particular moment. Not surprisingly, the older I get, the wiser and more helpful my mother and grandmother’s sage advice seems to me.

The text for this upcoming Women’s Week reminds me of another saying my mother had, but this is one with which I’d take a slight exception. As a child, if I tarried a little too long in front of a mirror admiring what I saw, she would sternly point out, “remember, beauty is only skin deep”. Well, perhaps that is true for something as superficial as outer physical

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works

and give glory to [God] in heaven.” —Matt. 5:16

Sharing Our Common LotBy Deborah Bailey

4

Chilean Miners RescuedMany prayers lifted up for the Chilean miners rescued after 69 days underground in collapsed mine! March 4, 2011 we will worship with the women of World Day of Prayer Committee in Chile. The preparation the women began several years ago will culminate in the communal service which will be celebrated around the

world on the first Friday in March. The service written by the women of Chile provides us with insight into the lives of the miners, their families and the many wives and women who bake bread in the community and share that bread with others. We look forward to your worshipping with us on Friday March 4, 2011 on World Day of Prayer.


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PLANNING FOR WOMEN’S WEEKKathryn matthews Huey

IT’S CUSTOMARy for a preacher to offer the benediction at the end of a worship service: a “good word” of blessing that’s also one more moment of teaching, of encouragement, of sending forth into the world that God loves. I suspect that many preachers have favorite themes and passages to draw on for those blessings. My favorite images for a benediction, no matter what the sermon is about, come from this week’s focus text from the Gospel of Matthew. But these images of salt and light aren’t just pretty or useful images. These are Jesus’ own images to describe his followers and to inspire and encourage them (including us today) in their ministry in the world.

It shouldn’t surprise us, then, that these powerful images are part of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus’ most well-known sermon and his first in the Gospel of Matthew. As he climbs up the mountain, he turns to look upon the crowd that’s gathered around him since he started his ministry of teaching and healing. Their suffering and their need fill his heart with compassion. Even more, he knows the spiritual hunger and the physical suffering of the world, and he sits down to teach about the reign of God that is even now, in his own person, breaking into that world. For three chapters, Matthew pulls together a number of Jesus’ teachings to form a very long sermon, and this short passage is a hinge between the Beatitudes and the difficult instructions that follow. Before Jesus raises the standard for his own followers (“you have heard it said…but I say to you…”), he uses two common, everyday images to tell his disciples to remember who they are. After lifting up the poor in spirit, the meek and the merciful, those who mourn and those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, the pure in heart, the peacemakers, and the persecuted, and calling them “blessed,” Jesus then addresses the crowd as “you,” and offers them words of both reassurance and challenge.

Like that second generation of Christians in Matthew’s community, we listen with the crowd to hear that we, too, are “the salt of the earth” and “the light of the world.” These images are packed with many meanings, and this short reflection can’t do them justice. However, even two thousand years later, we understand that salt that isn’t salty isn’t much good for anything, while just a little flavorful salt can have an impact far beyond its size, spreading through the whole of something much larger.

Douglas R. A. Hare suggests a different, livelier translation of this verse: “you must add zest to the life of the whole world” (Matthew, Interpretation).

And, in every age, we know that “light” means many things, not the least of them hope. Earlier in his Gospel (4:16), Matthew spoke of Jesus by recalling the words of the prophet Isaiah (9:2a), that “the people who sat in darkness have seen a great light.” Those who feel lost, or in despair, or confused, those who have no idea which way to turn: on them “light has dawned.” In Jesus Christ, we find our way, and in turn, we’re called to be the Body of Christ in the world today: Jesus tells us to “let our light shine before others,” to let the good things that we do, rather than bringing us glory, radiate God’s own goodness and love in the world. When people encounter us—as individuals and as communities of faith—they should see and sense more: they should feel hope, they should feel the possibility of a “different world,” Charles Cousar writes, “marked by unheard-of reconciliation, simple truth-telling, outrageous generosity, and love of one’s enemies” (Texts for Preaching Year A). We’re called not to make just a refreshing but a reinvigorating difference in the world, so that all who watch us will feel new life, new vitality, new possibility, new hope.

The church is no secret society, Jesus tells us, right from the beginning. Or, as Eugene Peterson translates it, “We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill….Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine! Keep open house, be generous with your lives” (The Message). As we strive to live faithfully in the world, we may be small, but we are mighty, not because of our own strength but because of God’s own grace, which will never leave us on our own.

Note: There are two images in this text that call for special sensitivity on the part of the preacher, first, with the image of light, which has sometimes been contrasted with “darkness” in a way that may unintentionally reinforce racial prejudice. Second, the use of “Father,” which Douglas Hare calls “Jesus’ favorite name for God,” does not limit God to the masculine but rather impresses on us the interpersonal nature of our relationship with the One who gives us life. God is not a concept or a force but a tenderly personal, loving Parent.

Check out www.ucc.org/samuel in January 2011 for an extended preaching commentary and sermon on this text.


Salt

y, B

RiGh

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Od: S

ERvi

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RayE

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Febru

ary

6,

20

11

Call

to W

orsh

ip

Let t

he M

yste

ry o

f God

dra

w u

s in

:bea

utif

ul, Ju

st,

Mer

cifu

l!

Let t

he W

isdom

of G

od s

urpr

ise u

s:V

ulne

rable

, Po

wer

ful,

Searc

hing

!

Let t

he G

lory

of G

od s

hine

thro

ugh

our w

ork:

Salty

, bri

ght

and

Goo

d!

In th

e M

yste

ry, t

he W

isdom

, the

Glo

ry o

f God

Let

us w

orsh

ip!

inv

oCa

tio

n

W

onder

ful G

od,

We

gath

er t

oday

to c

eleb

rate

you

r pre

senc

e in

the

live

s of

wom

en o

f fa

ith.

Send

you

r Sp

irit

to m

eet

us h

ere

and

gui

de

us in

to y

our

dep

ths

that

we

may

beg

in t

o glim

pse

you

r gra

ce:

wha

t ey

e ha

s no

t se

en,

nor

ear

heard

, no

r th

e hu

man

heart

con

ceiv

ed--

all

you

have

pre

pare

d f

or t

hose

who

love

you

.

We

pra

y th

is in

the

nam

e of

Jes

us,

your

Mys

tery

, yo

ur W

isdom

, yo

ur G

lory

.

Con

fess

ion

Isa

iah

rem

inds

us

that

our

pra

yer,

fasti

ng a

nd p

ious

ritu

al

mus

t be

lived

out

in c

ompa

ssio

n an

d ju

stice

:

Whe

n w

e fo

rget

the

fast

you

desir

e—To

do

justi

ce, a

nd s

tand

up

for t

he p

ower

less

: Lo

rd, ha

ve m

ercy

.

Whe

n w

e fo

rget

the

pray

er y

ou lo

ve—

To s

how

com

pass

ion,

and

car

e fo

r tho

se in

nee

d:Ch

rist

, ha

ve m

ercy

.

W

hen

we

forg

et th

e rit

uals

you

requ

ire—

To

cre

ate

rela

tions

hips

of r

ight

eous

ness

and

pea

ce:

Lord

have

mer

cy.

ass

ura

nCe

of

Gra

Ce a

nd p

eaCe

Frie

nds,

the

love

of G

od re

veal

ed in

Jesu

s fo

rgiv

es u

s, h

eals

us a

nd s

ets

us fr

eeto

rebu

ild, r

esto

re, a

nd

raise

up

foun

datio

ns fo

r new

gen

erat

ions

.

With

than

ksgi

ving

, let

us

offe

r one

ano

ther

a s

ign

of P

eace

.

pass

inG o

f th

e pe

aCe

off

erin

G C

all

C

hrist

cal

ls us

to le

t our

live

s an

d ou

r wor

k—

salty

, brig

ht, a

nd g

ood—

give

witn

ess

to th

e re

ign

of G

od in

our

mid

st.

Let u

s ge

nero

usly

offe

r our

gift

s

of ti

me,

tale

nt a

nd tr

easu

re,

th

at th

e gl

ory

of G

od

may

be

reco

gniz

ed a

nd c

eleb

rate

d in

our

wor

ld.

ded

iCa

tio

n

O

God

, ple

ase

tak

e th

ese

gif

ts a

nd m

ultip

ly t

hem

;

let

them

be

a m

eans

to

crea

te t

he ju

stic

e and

pea

ce

yo

u lo

ng f

or in

thi

s w

orld

.

In

Jes

us’

nam

e w

e pra

y, a

men

.

Ben

ediC

tio

n Let t

he M

yste

ry o

f God

sen

d us

into

the

wor

ld:

bea

utif

ul,

Just

, M

erci

ful!

Let t

he W

isdom

of G

od s

urpr

ise u

s in

the

wor

ld:

Vul

nera

ble

, Po

wer

ful,

Searc

hing

!

Let t

he G

lory

of G

od s

hine

thro

ugh

our w

ork

in th

e w

orld

:Sa

lty,

bri

ght

and

Goo

d!

In th

e M

yste

ry, t

he W

isdom

, the

Glo

ry o

f God

Let

us r

ejoi

ce!

(by

Rev.

Sus

an B

lain

)

Salty

Brig

ht a

nd G

ood:

Ser

vice

Pra

yers

for W

omen

’s W

eek

was

writ

ten

by th

e R

ev. S

usan

A.

Blai

n, M

inis

ter f

or W

orsh

ip L

iturg

y an

d Sp

iritu

al F

orm

atio

n, L

ocal

Chu

rch

Min

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es.

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(Break up into “Family Groups”—feel free to invite single persons into your family group) “Let Us Break Bread Together NCH page 330

Invitation:The communion of Jesus Christ is open to all. Jesus said, “Come to me all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” May that which is offered here through bread, drink and fellowship be with you.

“Come for All things are Now Ready”(Have one person from each Family Group come to the Communion Table to receive the Bread and Cup)

ConsecrationLord we are people who need you. We present this bread and drink. Help us to eat the bread in remembrance of the body that was broken for us, and by the drinking of the cup, to show forth the Lord’s death til he comes . By your grace, bless us with a renewed sense of your presence. Amen

(Take the Bread / Matzo and break it) saying… “The Lord on the night he was betrayed took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, “This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.” 1 Corinthians 11:23-24 NIV

(Hold up the Chalice /Grapes) saying “In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying ‘this cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.’ For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.” 1 Corinthians 25-26 NIV

Communion(In the Family Group share the Bread and Cup)

Sharing the bread“This is the body of Christ, given to you.” (Insert the person’s name)

Sharing the Cup“This the cup of blessing, the blood of Christ shed to cleanse you from sin.”

Prayer of ThanksgivingMost merciful God, we give you thanks for the privilege of sharing thisHoly meal. Lord strengthen us so we can show love for one another.Our Lord taught us to pray saying (Recite the Lord’s Prayer)

CommissioningHaving celebrated the memory of the body and the cup you are now sent to go forth to share the good news. Love and serve God, rejoice in the power of the Holy Spirit.

Sharing the Peace of ChristLet us now come together and share the peace which Jesus made possible; the peace of Christ . (Sing Amen )

blessingGo in peace, and love Amen

HOLy COMMUNIONDeborah Dee Brayton

Deborah Dee Brayton is a Women’s ministry consultant in the mid Atlantic region, a native new Yorker and life time member of St. Albans congregational church Ucc.

Deborah Dee is also a Partner in Education.

Things You Will Need:Use elements traditional to your culture

• Bread or Matzo• Grape Juice or clusters of grapes

(Enough for each person to have 3-4 grapes)• Chalice • Plate for the Bread or Matzo• Covering for the Communion Table• Cross• Candles

7

Salty

Brig

ht a

nd G

ood:

Ser

vice

Pra

yers

for W

omen

’s W

eek

was

writ

ten

by th

e R

ev. S

usan

A.

Blai

n, M

inis

ter f

or W

orsh

ip L

iturg

y an

d Sp

iritu

al F

orm

atio

n, L

ocal

Chu

rch

Min

istri

es.

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8

you Are…By lizette merchan

“yOU ARE” CALLED, and you are encouraged to be; to shine as the light of the world, the salt of the world; to be disciples in-the-making in the world and for the world. “you are” as followers of Jesus–the salt and the light for the world.

“you are”…not only because of one’s self-recognition of talents and skills, but because we believe Jesus’ word about oneself and one’s inner beauty. What matters is your accep-tance of, and living out, the new reality created and mediat-ed through him; in and within us and our call to discipleship.

This scripture reading is also a call to vigilance, making sure we live up to the commandments to the fullest of our abilities; where one does not necessarily affirm the status quo of the world, but on the other hand does not dismiss the law. The law is not only for the prophets, but also for the disciples and the followers because as disciples, we mediate God’s presence amongst us.

We are not alone in this task. We have Jesus, who came to fulfill our souls and challenge us, and at the same time to act as our guide on our life-journey. More than just a guide, Jesus empowers us to be more than we can be alone. The power of two-plus is a joined effort of what two or more can do, greater than what one can accomplish on her/his own.

Jesus does not require of us, his disciples, to become something we are not, or that we will never be. Instead, Jesus is telling us who we are and how far we can reach beyond ourselves as God’s people.

Disciples who, like us, are to be just what God has made us to be: ourselves—nothing more, nothing less. It is more than our unique perspective of who we mediate through our ministries. Rather, it is because we possess gifts, talents and abilities to influence every segment of our surroundings and our society and by that, to infuse energy in those around us in a power-hungry society.

The quest before us is like the light and its brightness, like the salt and its properties, not only one of preservation, but also one of seasoning; the pursuit of vitality and passion for life’s shining light. It calls those of us who strive, to be the light of the world and the salt of the earth in our lives and the lives of others. Our actions will actually have a preserving impact on the happenings, the situations, and the environments we face; both those that are welcoming and challenging.

Something as tangible and available as daily light and salt, it reminds us to be encouraged and to shine our light to oth-ers because of the impact and influence we can have on

In ReflectionMay the light of your life, and the outcome of your challenges, be the ones that prepare you for the future ahead. We need to ask God to nourish us, with the bread that gives life and the light we bring…a light that shines back to the world. Bringing some of the wholeness to our relationships not yet well-defined, that we may become a witness to the promise of boundless generosity. And may we always have the courage to speak truth to power and restore beauty where it should have been all along.

1. What is the power of two-plus, and how is this lived out in your life?

2. In what ways are you the person most like whom you are truly called to be?

3. In what ways are you your unique self?

the Reverend lizette merchán Pinilla is minister of Justice and Witness at community of Hope Ucc in tulsa, oklahoma. She serves as a West central RegionWomen’s consultant, and is a member of the UcAn leadership team (United church of christ HIV/AIDS network): http://www.ucc.org/ucan. Rev. lizette also serves as the Justice and Witness organizer of the Justice and Witness commission of the Kansas-oklahom

MonDAY

those around us. Inspiration is exponential…beyond our wildest expectations!

The intersection of our lives and their witness are qualities that make us the unique ones we are called to be at our fullest…to be part of the conviction of Jesus’ life-testimony to the world.

It is Jesus’ example of life, of survival and challenge against the status quo, of Jesus’ defiance to the powers in place, whose example redeemed the dignity lost of those disenfranchised and isolated by the powers-that-be.

It is our purpose to nurture the right relationship with one another as each other’s keepers, through thick and thin, and to restore each other’s self-worth. Where truly living and truly coexisting bring about the recognition of Jesus’ witness to us; yesterday, today and all of our days ahead.

you are…and we are…called to restore the beauty both on the inside and on the outside; to restore the beauty within needed to reach the lightness of life and to restore beauty for those whose light is yet to be seen.


9

Thanks be to God!By Dr. Willie mae Hawkins

AS I REFLECT upon Jesus giving the sermon on the mount, Matt 5:13-20 gives rise to my past thoughts and behavior as a young believer and now a leader of the Gospel. My early thoughts of the words “I am the salt of the world” were to preserve who I have become as a part of the body of Christ.

I became special like many others in the body of Christ and I was to behave in a respectful manner as I continue to learn and grow more in knowing the one who created me. At that time, I was not quite sure of what it meant to be a light of the world nor did I fully understand righteousness.

Now, 22 years later, I have received a little more insight to the text. First, it suggests to me that not only am I to be preserved but also I am to assist in preserving others, mind, body and soul. Preservation of oneself and for others is not always an ease task, especially when our character is being reshaped to be like Christ.

In this contemporary time, many of us want what we want, fast and quick. We indeed live in the moment of ex-periencing our free will and perhaps dismissing the plans God has for us. Surely, a part of God’s plan includes character building. Now, who wants to do that when we can exercise our free will not to? If we chose to reshape ourselves, its impact may not be a permanent one. Free will often allows us to change our mind and not partici-pate even in the middle of a transformational experience.

Many times, I dared to enter the unknown. yet, God kept me as I journeyed through to the other side. As a part of my transformational experience, I now participate in the preservation as God continues to shape my character and the character of others.

Secondly, being a light of the world stems from our character. No light can shine like that of Jesus Christ giving hope to the world. Through Christ, God dwells in us and the character of God radiates from within. It is the light of Christ that shines within us in which reconciliation between God and mankind occurs.

As a minister of the gospel, I encourage others through preaching, teaching and counseling to let their light shine and to be the best God has called them to be. God works through us, the body of Christ, to touch the hearts of all. So, transformation can occur as God desires it.

In Reflection

1. How do you struggle with free will verses God’s will?

2. How does God’s light shine through you?

3. Who is most truthful with you about your character?

How joyous it is when people think and speak positively as opposed to thinking and speaking negatively; when their lives are full of hope verses defeat; when they chose to fully live instead of dying; and, when they decide to forgive and let their pain heal. No words can describe the essence in our choosing what is best for us. As our lives get better, we express our gratitude by saying, “Thank you God!”

Thirdly, for so long I pondered on the word ‘righteousness’. In spite of my seminary training and the biblical dictionary I often refer to, it is through my son, Ray’von, who has given me a deeper understanding of its meaning. Who else can surmise the truth about your character better than your own child?

As God leads him, Ray’von often makes me aware that I am not always right in what I say and do. Although I am not perfect, I have come to realize that it is the on-going love for God and creation, the constant aim to follow Christ, making God the center of my life, and the praises I give to God that makes restoration for me and others in the world possible.

In conclusion, the continuous reshaping of our character, allowing Christ to shine through us, trying our best to live the commands that have been given, and uplifting God who calls the world back to the beauty in living life.

Dr. Willie mae Hawkins is a consultant in the Southern Region. She is the founder of Spring, Inc.-A national Single Parenting ministry where spiritual support is provided to the single parent family. (www.spring-inc.org)

TUESDAY


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Let your Light ShineBy Donna cooney

In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven. —Matthew 5:16 nRSV

IS THERE ANyTHING worse than the light that shines in department store dressing rooms, especially if you’re trying on bathing suits? I mean, really…that glaring light somehow drains any healthy glow my skin might have, and instead, highlights every red bump, blue dimple and purple line. Oh, did I say ‘light’? Check it out, there’s more than one light up there. More than likely there are two, maybe even three long neon bulbs creating this scene. Somehow I don’t think this is the kind of light Jesus had in mind when he told his disciples to let their light shine! Bright white neon lights hanging from ceilings were not part of their world. In stead, the light the disciples often shared came from candles nestled together in a stand.

Is there anything more beautiful than the warm amber glow of candle light? That’s the stuff that dreams are made of: flickering flames, romantic and soft, they capture our attention, ignite our imagination, and cast shadows that hide our imperfections. I don’t know about you, but this is the light that I want to be seen in. And so I pray: if someone is letting their light shine before me, please God, make it a candle.

I encourage you to read Revelation 1:12-14, 20 where John compares the church to gold lampstands, When I read this passage, I like to compare the church to golden candlesticks, so that when John looks to see who he hears speaking he sees the seven golden candlesticks. He also sees someone like the Son of Man standing in the middle of the candlesticks. The Son of Man, in a long robe with a gold sash, with hair white

as snow and eyes burning like flames of fire. The golden candlesticks are the church. Those who meet in the church are the candles; candles whose flames light the way for others who are searching for God. Jesus, who says let your light shine, promised that whenever two or three of us meet that He, Christ, The Light of the World would be in our midst, forever and ever. Let your light shine.

Prayer:Sweet Jesus, save us from shining like lights in a department store dressing room. May we never hang over any one’s head illuminating flaws and faults. Instead, transform us so that we are lights gathered together, glowing soft and warm, shining with your love. Use us to reveal the beauty of others and the beauty of your presence. Amen.

WEDnESDAY

In Reflection

1. What kind of light to you look best in?

2. When you meet with your sisters, what kind of light shines from your gathering?

3. What kind of light has God called you to be?

Donna cooney serves as Women’s ministry consultant for the Southern Region of the Ucc, and as licensed Pastor for Pilgrim congregational Ucc in Pomona Park, Florida.

KO Women’s assemblyWhite Memorial Camp

April 7-10, 2011

Southern regional Women’s Gathering

Blowing Rock Conference CenterOctober 7-9, 2011

Wisconsin State Women’s event

Pilgrim Camp, Ripon, WIOctober 21-23, 2011

LOOKING aHeaD


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Roses Along the Way; I Am Grateful for Roses Among Thorns!

By Rev. Brenda Burney

“They heard the sound of the LoRD walking in the garden…” —Genesis 3:8

I AM FASCINATED by the change of colors and textures of flowers and how the trees change their appearance during the seasons. My grandmother had a bed of roses that she lovingly cultivated. The roses were a variety of bright beautiful bold colors, yet the thorns had a way of instantly changing my view about their beauty. However, that thought was short -lived because the beauty would over shadow the prick of a thorn.

When I encounter women, changing careers, facing changes in life, with family and friends, I encourage them to focus on the beauty of the relationship and or situation. My challenge is to join them in prayer as a covenant to our relationship with God, as well as our connection for justice, vitality and fruitful living. Prayer is an important practice in the lives of so many people from all walks of life. That practice holds true in my life. As part of an early Saturday morning prayer ministry, made up of a small number of women; this group was committed to the ritual of praying for others as they came together each week. Soon an annual prayer breakfast, retreat and prayer walk grew out of an idea to unite in communication with God.

I experienced God’s closeness during our time in prayer. I also witnessed evidence of the answers to prayer with others (in jobs, health issues, a school saved from closing, etc.) and the testimony about their experience. This group, though small in size, knew the power of prayer is so enormous; I know that no eyes have seen, no ears have heard, neither has it entered our hearts; what God has prepared for the people of our UCC churches, partially because of women in prayer!

One day several years ago, as I was sitting in the flower garden in my grandmother’s yard, these words came to mind from a song titled, IN THE GARDEN:

“I come to the garden alone, while the dew is still on the roses:

And the voice I hear falling on my ear, The Son of God discloses.

And He walks with me and He talks with me and tells me I am His own:

And the joy we share as we tarry there, None other has ever known.”

Actually as I think back, there have been a number of times when, as I sit in a flower garden this song sings in my heart! I can only imagine what C. Austin Miles felt when these words were penned in 1913; inner peace, joy possibly, the presence of God, special and near to God perhaps.

As the leaves and season changes, as temperatures cool, I encourage you to find a garden that will allow you to seek the presence of God among nature.

Here is an acronym from a quote by an anonymous author. “Don’t complain about thorns among roses; be grateful for roses among thorns!”

r – Remind yourself of the wonders God has in nature.

O – Offer a prayer for your neighbors.

S – Sense the rhythm of your breathing.

e – Enjoy the fresh air with every breath.

S – Sit in silence and listen for your personal instruction for such a time as this.

I am grateful for roses among thorns…

Peace for your journey!

THURSDAY

In Reflection

1. Name a rose and a thorn currently in your life.

2. How would you describe your prayer life?

3. Think of a challenge facing you; how might you find beauty in the challenge.

Rev. Brenda Burney serves as a chaplain, Grief coach, Prayer and Spiritual Formation leader and resides in the Illinois conference. She also serves as one of the Women’s consultants for the Great lakes Region

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Restoring BeautyBy Rev. Deborah tate Breault

THE FIRST TIME I walked through the house I had a good feeling. I admit the stackable washer-dryer combo dominating the kitchen and the beige vinyl floor seriously tempered my excitement. Still, as I caught my first glimpses of this home built in 1830, I was hopeful. When a search committee takes you through the parsonage for the first time, you naturally want to focus on the positive, keeping your heart open. But truth be told, my previous experiences in parsonage living, combined with the realities of taxes, privacy, boundary issues, and living in someone else’s house, (who happens to be your employer) sent the bells and red lights flashing.

I continued moving from room to room; one full bathroom, and a tiny powder room off the kitchen. In my mind, our ten-year-old son magically morphed into a tall, hairy teen in the shower with a compulsion to personal hygiene. There were fireplaces as well: two completely walled over, and a third with a propane insert. Well, mantles are nice to decorate I mused, silently. We’ll see—it’s not yet a call. The floors were covered in old worn gray carpet. Then the words came flying out of my mouth even as I tried to suck them back on my inhale. “I’ll bet the floors under here are gorgeous”! “Well, maybe, but we’re not ready to take on a project of that size just now,” came the response. Of course, that would be a huge undertaking!

By the time I walked through the house again, it had been decided our family would live there for a year or two, while other church issues associated with the aging manse could be addressed and we found a place of our own. The committee had requested I choose carpet and flooring colors so that the house could be ready for our arrival. I’d done my homework and had the appropriate swatches and samples but couldn’t help thinking about how new carpets were such a waste in an historic house. Surely there was hard wood under all that tired flooring.

When I first met John, he was friendly and punctual. I began to offer my perspectives on why the choices I made were both attractive and economical. And then he caught me by surprise. He said, “I wonder what’s under there, bet it’s hard wood.” My ears perked up and I chimed in agreement. The next thing I knew, the orthopedic surgeon was crouched down, ripping up a corner of the vinyl that had come loose with his bare

hands. “Oh yes”, he exclaimed. “These are like the ones we redid at our house last spring. I know a guy whose great with flooring. Let’s call him.” And in that moment, we embarked upon a shared vision to restore the beauty below.

These verses from Matthew remind us that if salt has lost its flavor it is no longer of any value. And who would disagree? In our world of disposable consumerism where built-in obsolescence is expected, we often fail to see what is right before our eyes. We are distracted by the glitz and flash of the new and shiny, obscuring the treasure just below the surface.

As the floor restoration progressed some essential elements were required. The rest of the committee had to be consulted. Concerns ranged from potential hidden costs for structural problems, heating issues, and the time remaining for completion. These were weighed against the increased value to the house resulting from the restoration investment.

Clear and concise communication as well as confident collaborative leadership moved the project forward. And yes, there was the leap of faith. It took hard work; lots of volunteer hours and elbow grease along with the assurance that we would see it through and not throw the towel in when the going got tough. Once committed to the project, we discovered a layer of black cement glue. The wide planks were under it, but the prep work prior to sanding was significant.

Restoration takes shared vision, commitment and collaboration; as well the leap of faith that sees a hint of value at the corner of years of wear and tear and accumulated residue.

The same is true for the beauty that lies within us. years of education, work, and extreme busyness can pile layers of exhaustion, disappointment and grief over the shining Christ light within each of us. After a while, we forget or worse, fail to believe that we are the beloved of God. The work of faithful discipleship in this day must include consistent awareness and attention to our inner life. And this requires taking time for silence and rest. Finding ways to honor Sabbath entails more that simple fulfillment of the laws of the covenant. It is nurturing our inner beauty so that we can fulfill the call of Jesus to let our light shine and give glory to the Creator of that beauty within.

FRIDAY

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Flowering PrayerBy Donna cooney

In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven. —Matthew 5:16 nRSV

Women taught me to pray. Fold your hands Bow your head Close your eyes

were their gentle Sunday instructions .I was a child in the company of women planting seeds.

For years I folded inward and prayed. In the darkChin lowered Hands together

I was tightly sealed, yet there was life: the seeds became a bud waiting to flower.

One day I lifted my head during prayer. Hands tightly claspedAnd eyes closed I turned my face upward

And felt Light shining in me. Caressed by warmth the flower began to bloom.

My hands are unfolded now, breaking with tradition. Placed gently on my lap

My face and my palms turn upWaiting for God to touch me I am not disappointed.

I am a flower, beautiful and blooming, preparing to seed.

SATURDAY

There are lots of ways that the church of today is confronting what doesn’t seem to work as well as it once did. We are getting pretty clear on what people don’t want. The task is to balance the restoration of our faith tradition’s beauty and our very lives, while also moving into the future in a new way. As disciples we are called to provide both spice and light to the work of the Spirit. We are called to be as a city set on a hill so that the light may shine, revealing where the hidden treasures hide; and then to work to restore them.

Finally, as I walked through the house in my stocking feet the smell of polyurethane was strong, but not as strong as the wonder in my heart at the history and beauty before me. Time, resources, risk, faith and vision are what we need to renew the luster of the church of Jesus Christ and a new chapter of life, ministry, service and love.

In Reflection

1. What is your normal posture during prayer?

2. How have your times of prayer changed over the years?

3. If you were to assume a different prayer position, what would it be?

4. Take a moment to sit quietly with your face turned upward. Imagine the Light of God shining on you. What is the message that God is speaking to you?

In Reflection

1. Can you think of a time you had a vision of something not yet revealed and you were able to enthuse others to join in the journey?

2. Where is your growing edge in nurturing the light of Christ within you? Are there practices that renew you as you seek to let your light shine?

3. Is God calling you to a new way of seeing and knowing the work of the Spirit as you seek to strengthen and serve in your local church or community?

Rev. Deborah tate Breault is the pastor of Falmouth congregational church, Ucc in maine. She is committed to developing new models of women’s fellowship that will address the needs and yearning of women in modern life in the local church and beyond. She is renewed by the spiritual practice of frame drumming and lives with her partner Bryan of 20+ years (the Director of outdoor ministries for the maine conference Ucc) their ten year old son, Eric, and Sophie their chocolate lab. Deborah is the new England Regional Women’s ministry consultant for local church ministries of the Ucc.

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EresPor lizette merchan

traducido por la Reverenda Jeanette Zaragoza-De león

ERES LLAMADA y se te insta a serlo; a brillar como la luz del mundo; a ser la sal de la Tierra; a ser discípulos en proceso en el mundo y para el mundo. Eres llamada a seguir a Jesús—la sal y luz para el mundo.

Eres…no sólo debido al auto reconocimiento de los tal-entos y destrezas, pero porque creemos en la palabra de Jesús sobre uno y nuestra belleza interna. Lo que importa es aceptar y vivir la nueva realidad creada y mediada por Él; en y dentro de nosotros y nuestro llamado al discipu-lado.

Esta Escritura también representa un llamado a ser vigilantes y asegurarnos que vivimos a la altura de los mandamientos conforme al mayor potencial de nuestras abilidades La ley no es tan sólo para los profetas, pero también para los discípulos y seguidores porque como discípulos somos testigos de la presencia de Dios entre nosotros.

No estamos solos en esta tarea. Tenemos a Jesús que vino a llenar nuestro ser y a retarnos. A la misma vez nos sirve de guía en nuestro peregrinar por la vida. Más que guía, Jesús nos capacita para ser más de lo que podemos ser solos. El dpoder de “más de dos” representa un esfuerzo conjunto de lo que dos o más pueden hacer, mucho más de lo que puede lograrse por esfuerzos propios.

Jesús no nos pide, a nosotros sus discípulos, convertirnos en algo que no somos o que nunca seremos. En vez, Jesús nos dice quienes somos y cuán lejos más allá de nosotros mismos podemos aspirar a ser como pueblo de Dios.

Como discípulos suyos debemos de ser justamento lo que Dios nos han llamado a ser: —nada más y nada menos. Es más que nuestra única perspectiva de quien le servi-mos a través de nuestros ministerios. Además, es porque tenemos talentos, dones y abilidades para influir todos los aspectos de nuestro entorno y sociedad. De esta manera inyectamos de energía a aquellos que nos rodean y viven en una sociedad con hambre del poder.

Esta búsqueda es como la luz y su brillantez, como la sal y sus propiedades, no es sólo una de preservación, pero de sazón: el buscar la vitalidad y la pasión por la luz brillan-te de la vida. Llama a aquellos de nosotros que luchamos por ser la luz del mundo y sal de la tierra en nuestras vi-das y las de otros. Nuestras acciones tendrán un impacto a largo plazo en los sucesos, ambientes y las situaciones que encaremos: tanto los retantes como aquellos que re-cibimos con brazos abiertos.

Algo tan disponible y tangible como la luz y la sal, nos re-cuerda a vivir motivados e iluminar a otros con nuestra luz debido al impacto y la influencia que podemos tener en los que nos rodean. La inspiración se multiplica exponen-cialmente, más allá de nuestros sueños no imaginables.

Reflexionemos:Que la luz de tu vida y el resultado de tus retos sean los que te preparen para tu futuro por delante. Te pedimos Dios que nos nutras con el pan de vida y con Tu luz: pan y luz que luego compartiremos con el mundo. Ayúdanos a traer entereza a las relaciones que lo necesiten y que podamos ser testigos de las promesas de Tu abundancia y generosidad. y que siempre tengamos el valor de hablarle con la verdad al poder y restaurar la belleza donde debió haber estado todo el tiempo. 1. ¿Cuál es el poder de “más de dos” y cómo vive

esto en su vida?

2. ¿De qué maneras se parece a la persona que está llamada a ser?

3. ¿De qué maneras eres única?

4. ¿Cómo puedes restaurar la belleza, si primero no se reconoce en una misma?

La Reverenda Lizette Merchán Pinilla es ministro de jusicia y testimonio de la Comunidad de Esperanza IUC enTulsa, Oklahoma. Sirve como consultora regional de la región central y oeste. También es miembro del equipo de liderato de la UCAN (la Red de VIH/SIDA de la IUC.) http://www.ucc.org/ucan. Rev. Lizette, a la vez, sirve como organizadora de justicia y testimonio de la comisión de la Conferencia de Kansas-Oklahoma:http://www.uccjustice.org/.

LUnES

La intersección entre nuestras vidas y los testigos de estas es lo que nos distingue de nuestro llamado a ser lo más que podemos alcanzar y ser parte de la convicción del testimonio jesusiano de vida para el mundo.

Es el ejemplo de Jesús, de sobrevivencia y reto en contra del estatus quo, del desafío de Jesús a los poderes exis-tentes, lo que redime la dignidad perdidad de los margi-nados y aislados por los poderosos.

Nuestro propósito es nutrir la relación perfecta entre unos y otros como guardianes, en las buenas y las malas, y de restaurar la autoestima de cada uno. Es así como el vivir y coexistir de verdad puede hacernos reconer el testimonio de Jesús en nosotros—ayer, hoy y en el mañana.

Tú….y todos somos llamados a restaurar la belleza interna y externa. Esta es necesaria para alcanzar la luz de la vida y restaurar la belleza para aquellos cuya luz aún no brilla.


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Gracias a DiosPor la Doctora Willie mae Hawkins


AL REFLExIONAR SOBRE el Sermon del Monte que Jesús predicó, el pasaje de Mateo 5:13-20 me hace recordar de mis pensamientos y comportamiento como joven cristiana que dieron paso a convertirme en líder del Evangelio aquí y ahora. Antes pensaba que las palabras, “yo soy la sal de la tierra”, servían para salvaguardar quien era yo como parte del cuerpo de Cristo.

Como muchos otros, me convertí en alguien especial al ser parte del cuerpo de Cristo y tenía que comportarme de una manera respetuosa, mientras aprendía y crecía en el conocimiento de quien me creo. Al mismo tiempo, no estaba muy segura de lo que significa ser la luz del mundo, ni tan poco comprendía completamente el concepto de justicia.

Ahora, 22 años después, entiendo un poco mejor este texto. Primero, me sugieren que no sólo debo de salvaguardarme, pero también ayudar a salvaguardar a otros en su totalidad. Esta tarea doble no es siempre fácil, en especial, cuando nuestro carácter está en proceso de ser como el de Cristo.

En estos tiempos, muchos de nosotros queremos todo rapido y ligero. De hecho, vivimos en un tiempo donde gozamos de nuestro libre albedrío y quizás desestimamos los planes que Dios tiene para nosotros. Ciertamente, una parte del plan de Dios incluye la formación de carácter. Pero, quién quiere hacer esto cuando podemos ejercer nuestra derecho a decir que no. Si escojemos ser criaturas nuevas, su impacto quizás no sea permamente. El libre albedrío nos permite cambiar de opinión y de no participar hasta de experiencias transformadoras.

Muchas veces, me atrevo a entrar al mundo desconocido. Aún así, Dios me ayuda en mi peregrinaje hasta el otro lado. Como parte de mi experiencia transformadora, ahora participo en la conservación mientras Dios continua formando mi carácter y el de otros.

En segúndo lugar, de nuestro carácter se desprende el ser la luz del mundo. Ninguna luz brilla como la de Jesucristo que le da esperanza al mundo. A través de Cristo, Dios habita en nosotros. Es el carácter de Dios el que irradia desde adentro. Es la luz de Cristo que brilla en nosotros y en donde la reconciliación entre Dios y los seres humanos ocurre.

Como ministro del Evangelio, motivo a otros a través de la predicación, enseñanza y consejería para que su luz brille y para que logren ser quienes Dios les ha llamado

Reflexionemos:

1. ¿Cómo luchas con el libre albedrío en vez de la voluntad de Dios?

2. ¿Cómo brilla la luz de Dios a través de ti?

3. ¿Quién es la persona más honesta contigo en relación a tu carácter?

a ser. Dios trabaja a través de nosotros, el cuerpo de Cristo, para tocar los corazones de todos, para que la transformación se pueda dar según la desea Dios.

Que gozoso es cuando las personas piensan y hablan positivamente en vez de pensar y hablar negativamente; cuando sus vidas están llenas de esperanza en vez de derrotas; cuando escogen vivir completamente en vez de morir; y cuando deciden perdonar y permitir que su dolor sane.

En tercer lugar, por tanto tiempo pensé sobre la palabra justicia. A pesar de mi educación de seminario y el diccionario bíblico, el cual usaba con frecuencia, fue a través de mi hijo, Ray’von, que me brindó la comprensión profunda sobre el significado de esta palabra. ¿Quién más que tu propio hijo puede conjeturar la verdad sobre tu carácter?

En la manera en que Dios lo guía, Ray’von con frecuencia me hace consciente que no siempre estoy en lo correcto en lo que digo y hago. Aunque no soy perfecta, he llegado a entender que es el amor continuo de Dios y la Creación, el desear constantemente seguir a Cristo, el poner a Dios en el centro de mi vida y las alabanzas a Dios, lo que me restaúran a mí y otros dentro de un mundo posible.

En conclusion, continuemos moldeando nuestro carácter, permitamos que Cristo brille a través nuestro, hagamos lo mejor posible de vivir los mandatos que se nos han dado y demos alabanza a Dios quien llama nuevamente al mundo a la belleza de vivir la vida.

la Dra. Willie mae Hawkins es consultora en la región sureña. Ella es la fundadora de Spring, Inc. un ministerio para madres y padres solteros a través de los EE.UU. donde se le provee apoyo espiritual a familias con un solo padres (www.spring-inc.org.).

MARTES


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deja que tu luz brillePor Donna cooney


De la misma manera, haz que tu luz brille para tus hermanos y hermanas, para que puedan ver tus buenas obras y darle la gloria al Dios del cielo. —Mateo 5:16 nRSV (por sus siglas en inglés)

¿ExISTE ALGO PEOR QUE la luz de los probadores en las tiendas de ropa, en especial, si te estás probándo un traje de baño? Es decir, en verdad…esa luz deslumbrante de alguna manera elimina cualquier brillo saludable que pueda tener mi piel. Por lo contrario, resalta cada abultamiento, hoyito o línea. O, ¿hablé de la “luz”? Adivinen, hay más de una luz allá arriba. Muy probablemente hay dos, quizás hasta tres bombillas largas de neón que crean este ambiente. De alguna manera no creo que esta es la clase de luz que Jesús tenía en mente cuando le dijo a sus discípulos que dejaran que su luz brillara. Las luces blancas de neón colgadas de los techos no eran parte de su mundo. En vez, la luz que con frecuencia los discípulos compartían provenía de las velas juntas puestas en un estante.

¿Hay algo más hermoso que el resplandor amarilloso y tibio de la luz de una vela? De eso es que están hechos los sueños: el parpadeo de las llamas, románticas y suaves. Estas capturan nuestra atención, encienden nuestra imaginación y echan al lado las sombras que esconden nuestras imperfecciones. No sé si usted piensa igual, pero esta es la luz bajo la que quiero que me vean. Oremos: Si alguien hace brillar su luz ante mí, te pido Dios, que sea una vela.

Les invito a leer Revelaciones 1:12-14, 20. Aquí Juan compara la iglesia a postes dorados de luz cuando Juan mira a ver quien le habla el ve siete candelabros. Al leer este pasaje, me gusta comparar la iglesia con candelabros de oro. También él ve a alguien que parece ser el Hijo del Hombre [sic] en medio de los candelabros. El Hijo del Hombre [sic] vestido con

una toga larga y un cinturón dorado, con el pelo blanquecido como la nieve y los ojos que ardían como llamas de fuego. Los candelabros de oro son la iglesia. Aquellos que conoce en la iglesia son las velas; velas cuyas llamas alumbran el camino para otros que buscan a Dios. Jesús que nos invita a dejar nuestra luz brillar, nos promete que cuando dos o tres personas se junten, Él, el Cristo que es la Luz del mundo estaría en medio nuestros para siempre.

DEJA QUE TU LUz BRILLE.

oremos:Dulce Jesús, sálvanos de brillar como las luces de neón en los probadores de las tiendas de ropa. Que nunca iluminemos los defectos y las faltas de otros como una lámpara sobre ellos. En vez, transfórmamos para que en conjunto seamos luces que resplandecen suave y tibiamente con el brillo de tu amor. Úsanos para revelar la belleza de otros y la de tu presencia. Amén.

MIéRCoLES

Reflexionemos:

1. ¿En qué tipo de luz te ves mejor?

2. ¿Cuando te reúnes con tus hermanas, ¿qué tipo de luz brilla del encuentro?

3. ¿Qué tipo de luz te ha llamado Dios a ser?

Donna cooney sirve como consultora a los ministerios de las mujeres para la región sur de la IUc. Es una pastora con licencia de la iglesia Pilgrim congregational Ucc en Pomona Park, Florida.

2012 TaPeSTry bIbLe STuDy

Confessing the Beatitudes, by Margaret Aymer available March 2012


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Rosas en el camino; me siento agradecida por las rosas entre espinas

Por la Reverenda Brenda Burneytraducido por la Reverenda Jeanette Zaragoza-De león

“Escucharon al Señor paseaser por el jardín” —Genesis 3:8a

ME FASCINA COMO CAMBIAN los colores, las texturas de las flores y la apariencia los árboles durante las estaciones. Mi abuela cultivó con ahínco una parcela de rosas. Las rosas desplegaban una variedad de colores brillantes y sólidos, pero las espinas de manera repentina cambiaron mi apreciación de su belleza. Sin embargo, ese pensamiento no me duró mucho tiempo porque la belleza se sobre ponía al pinchazo de una espina.

Cuando me encuentro con mujeres que cambian de profesión, que se topan con cambios en sus vidas entre su familia y amistades, les motivo a que se enfoquen en la belleza de la relación o situación. Mi reto es unirme a ellas en oración como pacto de nuestras relaciones con Dios y nuestro compromiso con la justicia, vitalidad y una vida de frutos.

La oración es una práctica importante en la vida de tantas personas no importa de donde vengas. Esa práctica está presente en mi vida. Un grupo pequeño de mujeres son parte de un ministerio de oración matutino y sabatino. Estamos comprometidas a la disciplina de la oración por otros cada semana. De ahí nació la idea de un desayuno anual de oración, un retiro y una caminata de oración para juntas comunicarnos con Dios.

Sentí la cercanía de Dios durante nuestro tiempo de oración. También fui testigo de las contestaciones a las oraciones— por ejemplo, en asuntos de trabajos y salud, y una escuela que se salvó de que la cerraran—al orar con otros y de su testimonio. Aunque pequeño en tamaño, este grupo conocía que el poder de la oración es inmenso. Sé que no hay ojos que hayan visto, ni oidos que hayan escuchado. Tan poco ha penetrado en nuestros corazones lo que Dios ha preparado—en parte por las oraciones de las mujeres—para el pueblo y las iglesias de la IUC.

Un día, hace varios años, mientras estaba sentada en el jardín de flores de mi abuela, las siguientes palabras de una canción titulada, In the Garden (En el jardín), afloraron en mi mente:

“Llegué al jardín sola, mientras el roció aún se posaba sobre las rosas:

Y la voz que escuché susurrar en mi oido, el hijo de Dios se revela.

Él camina conmigo, me habla y me dice que soy de Él:

El gozo que compartimos mientras estamos a la expectativa de llegar allá, un gozo nunca antes conocido”.

De hecho, mientras lo pienso, muchas veces cuando me siento en el jardín de flores esta canción se escucha en mi corazón. Solo puedo imaginar lo que C. Austin Miles sintió cuando a puño y letra las escribió en 1913, posiblemente, paz interna, gozo, la presencia de Dios, sentirse especial y cerca de Dios.

Mientras las hojas, las estaciones y las temperaturas cambian y enfrían, les insto a encontrar un jardín que les permita buscar la presencia de Dios en la naturaleza.

A continuación les comparto un acrónimo de una cita por un autor anónimo. “No se queje de las espinas en las rosas; siéntase agradecido por las rosas en medio de las espinas”. r – Recuerde las maravillas de la creación de Dios. O – Ore por sus vecinos. S – Sienta el ritmo de su respiración. a – Admire el aire fresco con que respira. S – Siéntese en silencio para recibir directrices personales en tiempos como este (alusión a Ester 4:14).

estoy agradecida por las rosas entre espinas…

¡Le deseo paz en su peregrinaje!

JUEVES

Reflexionemos:

1. Identifique una rosa y espina en su vida.

2. ¿Cómo describiría su disciplina de oración?

3. Piense sobre un reto que enfrenta en el día de hoy; cómo puede hallar belleza en el reto.

Revda. Brenda Burney es capellana. Acompaña a los que están en duelo es líder espiritual de formación y reside en la conferencia de Illinois. también es una de las consultoras para la Región de los Grandes lagos.

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Restaurar la bellezaPor la Reverenda Deborah tate Breault


LA PRIMERA VEz QUE caminé por la casa me sentí bien. Admito que el conjunto de lavadora y secadora dominaban la cocina y el color crema del piso de vinilo atenuó mi emoción. Aún así, cuando por primera vez le de un vistazo a esta casa que se construyó en 1830, me esperancé. Cuando el comité de búsqueda por primera vez me llevó a conocer la casa pastoral, fue natural enfocarme en lo positivo y mantener un corazón dispuesto. Pero hablemos claro, mi experiencia previa en una casa pastoral, en combinación con las realidades de los impuestos, privacidad, límites personales y vivir con otra persona en la casa—que resulta ser tu patrono-envía luces de Bengala.

Continué caminando por los cuartos: un cuarto de baño completo y otro pequeño cuarto al lado de la cocina. En mi imaginación, nuestro hijo de 10 años de manera mágica se transformó en un joven alto, con pelo largo en la ducha con una compulsión a la higiene personal. También tenía chimeneas: dos de pared a pared y una tercera de propano. Bueno es agradable decorar las repisas de la chimenea; pensé en silencio. Bueno, veremos a ver, ¡aún no siento un llamado! Los pisos estaban cubiertos de una alfombra gris muy maltrecha. Entonces de repente las palabras salieron de mi boca aún cuando traté de tragármelas, “¡Me imagino que los pisos por debajo de la alfombra son hermosísimos!” “Bueno, quizás, pero no estamos listos para asumir un proyecto de esa magnitud en estos momentos”, fue mi respuesta. Por supuesto eso sería un proyecto grande.

Cuando caminamos por la casa una vez más, ya habíamos decidido que nuestra familia viviría allí por uno o dos años, mientras se podían abordar otros asuntos asociados con la casa pastoral y pudiéramos encontrar un lugar propio. El comité había pedido que yo escogiera la alfombra y los colores de las losetas de vinilo para que la casa estuviera lista a nuestra llegada. Había hecho mi tarea y tenía las muestras, pero no podía dejar de pensar en cómo las alfombras nuevas eran una pérdida de dinero en una casa antigua. De seguro existían pisos de madera noble debajo del piso cubierto.

Cuando conocí a John era amigable y puntual. Empecé a compartir mis opiniones de porqué las opciones que yo había escogido eran atractivas y económicas. Entonces, me sorprendió diciendo, “Me pregunto que habrá debajo, me imagino que es madera noble”. Escuché con atención y me hice eco de su opinión. Lo próximo que ocurrió fue que el cirujano ortopeda se puso de rodillas en el piso y levantó una esquina de vinilo que haló sólo con las manos. “O sí”, exclamó, “Estas son como las que reparamos en nuestra casa la primavera pasada.

Conozco a un señor que trabaja muy bien los pisos. Llamémoslo”. y en ese momento, emprendimos una visión en común para restaurar la belleza escondida.

Estos versos de Mateo nos recuerdan que si la sal ha perdido su sabor, ya este ingrediente no tiene valor. ¿Quién puede estar en desacuerdo? En este mundo donde se consume para botar y donde se espera contruir con obsolencia, con frecuencia fallamos en ver lo que es correcto. Estamos distraídos por la ostentación y fama, por lo nuevo y brilloso, y de esta manera tiramos los tesoros que a penas se encuentran debajo de la superficie.

Al progresar con la restauración del piso se requerían unos elementos esenciales. Se necesitaba consultar con el resto del comité. Se ventilaron preocupaciones sobre posibles gastos no previstos debido a problemas estructurales, problemas de calefacción y el tiempo que tardaría en acabar el proyecto. Esto se consideró en constraste con el aumento de valor a la propiedad como resultado de la inversión en restaurarla.

Una comunicación clara y concisa junto a un liderazgo confiado y colaborativo impulsó el proyecto hacia adelante. y sí, actuamos por fe. Requirió trabajo árduo; largas horas de trabajo voluntario y trabajar manga por hombro, con la seguridad que llegaríamos al otro lado y no tiraríamos la toalla cuando la situación se tornara difícil. Una vez que nos comprometimos con el proyecto descubrimos una capa de pega de negra. Las tablas anchas estaban debajo de esta capa, pero el trabajo previo de lijar era bastante.

La restauración requiere una visión compartida, compromiso y colaboración, y un acto de fe de ver una pizca de valor en la esquina añeja del uso y residuo acumulado.

Lo mismo es cierto con la belleza que se encuentra dentro de nosotros. Años de educación, trabajo y demasiados compromisos pueden acumular capas de agotamiento, insatisfacción y tristeza sobre la luz brillante de Cristo en cada una de nosotras. Después de un tiempo, nos olvidamos, o peor, fracasamos en creer que Dios nos ama. El trabajo del discipulado fiel en estos tiempos debe incluir conciencia constante y atención a nuestra vida interna. y esto requiere tiempo en silencio y descanso. Busquemos maneras de honrar el Shabat que requiere más que cumplir solamente con las leyes del pacto. Es nutrir nuestra belleza interna para que podamos cumplir el llamado de Jesús de dejar que nuestra luz brille y darle la gloria al Creador por la belleza interna.

VIERnES

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Una oración que florece

Por Donna cooneytraducido por la Reverenda Jeanette Zaragoza-De león

De la misma manera, haz que tu luz brille para tus hermanos y hermanas, para que puedan ver tus buenas obras y darte la gloria al Dios del cielo. —Mateo 5:16 nRSV

Las mujeres me enseñaron a orar. A juntar las manos A inclinar el rostro A cerar los ojos

Esas fueron sus instrucciones amables en los domingos.Era una niña en compañía de mujeres que sembraban semillas.

Por años me escondía en los adentros y oraba. En la oscuridadCon la barbilla al pecho Las manos juntas

Me encontraba herméticamente sellada, Pero había vida: las semillas se convirtieron en bulbos que esperaban florecer.

En una ocasión levanté mi rostro durante la oración. Las manos sujetas firmementey los ojos cerrados Levanté mi rostro hacia arribay sentí la luz que me iluminaba.

Acariciadas por el calor, la flor comenzó a florecer.

Ahora las manos están desatadas, en contra de la tradición. Descansando suavemente sobre mi falda

El rostro y las manos hacia arribaEsperaba que Dios me tocaraNo me siento desilusionada.

Soy una bella flor que florece en preparación para dar semillas.

SáBADo

Existen muchas maneras en que la iglesia de hoy confronta lo que no parece funcionar tan bien como una vez lo hizo. Estamos bastante claros en lo que la gente no quiere. La tarea es balancear la restauración de la belleza de nuestra tradicón de fe y nuestras propias vidas, a la misma vez que avanzamos al futuro de maneras nuevas. Como discípulos somos llamados a proveer tanto la sazón como luz al trabajo del Espíritu. Somos llamados a ser una ciudad construida sobre una colina para que la luz resplandezca y revele donde se encuentran los tesoros escondidos. Luego podremos trabajar para restaurarlos.

y por último, mientras caminaba por la casa en mis calcetines el olor de barniz era fuerte, pero no tan fuerte como el sentirme maravillada ante tanta historia y belleza. El tiempo, los recursos, el riesgo, la fe y visión son los que necesitamos para renovar el lustre de la iglesia de Jesucristo y para que un nuevo capítulo de vida, ministerio, servicio y amor se escriba.

Reflexionemos:

1. ¿En qué posición acostumbras a orar?

2. Con los años, ¿cómo ha cambiado tu tiempo de oración?

3. ¿Si fueras a orar de otra manera, cómo sería?

4. Tome un momento. Siéntese en silencio con su rostro hacia arriba. Imagine que la luz de Dios brilla sobre ti. ¿Qué te quiere decir Dios?

Revda. Deborah tate Breault es pastora de Falmouth congregational church, IUc en maine. Está comprometida a desarrollar nuevos modelos de compartir entre mujeres que aborden las necesidades y los deseos de estas en la vida moderna, en la iglesia local y más allá. Se le conoce por la práctica espiritual de tocar panderos y ha vivido con su pareja, Bryan, por más de 20 años (el director de los ministerios afuera para la conferencia de maine de la IUc. tienen un hijo de 13 años y una perra labrador de color chocolate, Sophie. Deborah sirve como consultora para los ministerios de la región de nueva Inglaterra de los ministerios locales de la IUc.

Reflexionemos:1. ¿Puedes pensar en algún momento que

tuviste una visión no aún revelada y pudiste animar a otros a unirse en tu caminar?

2. ¿En dónde tienes que crecer para nutrir la luz de Cristo dentro de ti? ¿Existen prácticas que te renuevan mientras permites que tu luz brille?

#3. ¿Es que Dios te llama a ver y conocer de una manera nueva las obras del Espíritu, mientras buscas fortalecer y servir a tu iglesia local o comunidad?

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Regard your neighbor’s gain as your own gain and your neighbor’s loss as your own loss. (Lao Tzu)

I LIVE AND WORK in a metropolitan area which has been particularly hard hit with foreclosures. Cleveland ranks way up there in the cities most impacted by the economic meltdown and recession and you don’t have to travel very far along city streets before seeing the signs of abandoned and foreclosed homes.

I wonder where those former occupants are living now? With other family members? On the streets? In transitional housing—of which there is very little? In another city or town or state? Boarded up homes are broken into regularly and copper pipes stolen and cashed in. A few homes in tonier neighborhoods seem to be in this category of foreclosure but for the most part, you’ll find them in the more modest and poorer sections of town. No surprises there.

If your neighbor lost her home—would you regard that as your loss? What would you do?

In today’s very individualistic culture, in this ol’ pull-yourself-up-by-your-bootstraps society we live in, we pretty much keep to ourselves. We’ve lost the sense of neighborhood and neighborliness. When is the last time you borrowed a cup of flour from your next door neighbor? (Or baked anything, for that matter?!) Or walked their dog for them when they were out of town for the day? Or watered their plants? Or said, “Good morning!”?

Every religion includes as a core value the need to care for one’s neighbor. In many of our churches we ask ourselves, “Who is our neighbor?” and come to the conclusion that neighbors are not just those who live close by, but also those who live all the way around the world. So we engage in fundraising for various overseas projects, send money, send volunteers, and feel great about being good Christians because after all, all of God’s children are our neighbors.

But sometimes we forget the neighbors who are close by, the people who walk or drive by our homes

Women in Justice: Beauty Reconsidered

By loey Powell

everyday, whose kids attend the same schools as our kids, who are worried about what to do when the money runs out because they were laid off last week or just learned of a lousy diagnosis?

Jesus preceded Lao Tzu chronologically but both address the same eternal human situation: Love your neighbor as yourself. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Jesus makes this one of the great commandments, the way to show your love for God. Paul puts it another way: When one part of the body weeps, we all weep. When one part rejoices, all rejoice.

We are inextricably bound up with each other as human beings. We seek peace and harmony but we muck it up all the time, often driven by greed, the need for power and for power over others, the desire to be right and impose our beliefs on others, or out of fear. We don’t sit on our porches and watch out for each other’s kids anymore, nor do we sit on the metaphorical porches of the world neighborhood and look out for our global neighbors, assessing whether or not a proposed action would have an adverse affect on others. We pay attention to our own security, at any cost.

So I propose this: to reconsider beauty in terms of your neighborhood, especially the neighborhood where you actually live. If homes are stressed, how can you help? It is your loss if the house next to you is abandoned. What can the neighborhood do to leverage support for those who live there? To keep properties up?

Or what can you do for and with your neighbors to create an environment where each looks out for the others? Have a block party? Take bread to your neighbor who can’t get out? Mow their lawn?

And what do you need to do inside yourself to let your inner beauty shine forth to your neighbors? you don’t have to be perfect—just caring.

Justice flows from the heart of neighborliness. And justice is beautiful. Be beautiful.

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Women in International Ministry: Much Will Be Required

By Ana Gobledale

CALLED TO A LIFE OF MISSION, that is what Coralyn Medyesy believes is true for each of us who call ourselves “Christian.” In her words: Every Christian is called to “mission” of some kind. Wherever (s)he is at in life, (s)he serves in Christ’s name! Next door, on the job, in a friend’s life, out on the street, in the

Church…we can each be more an activist in our witness and serving.”

Coralyn’s life journey spans decades and continents as she has witnessed and served in Christ’s name. From Illinois to Indiana to Connecticut to Hungary, her actions as minister, counselor, teacher, parent and wife proclaim her faith. Born in the USA, she married Laslo, a native of Hungary, and today they serve in the Reformed Church of Hungary, an International Partner with Global Ministries of the United Church of Christ and the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).

A favorite Bible verse for Coralyn, Luke 12:48, continues to guide her faithful witness: “From everyone to whom much has been given, much will be required.” (NRSV) May her experiences and her commitment to Christian action inspire you.

cHURcH RootSCoralyn comes from a “church-going family” in Seattle. Her parents modeled a life of deep commitment to the life of their church from ushering to singing in Gilbert and Sullivan productions, from playing on the church basketball team being leaders of the youth group. Coralyn writes of her church, “Work projects were encouraged, so I learned to knit afghan squares early.” She especially enjoyed the outdoor worship at the annual family church camp work weekend. She explains, “Outdoor worship at such events, and especially those early on Easter morning, were often more real to me than “ordinary” sanctuary Sundays.” And then there was music, “And always I was part of a

choir, learning theology from our singing. Church music in all forms taught me the Scriptures before I could grasp the spoken Word.”

Coralyn claims it was “that steeping in the church” that kept her “full of faith.” Giving due credit to Camp Fire Girls (I was a CFG, too!) she ranks church camp’s “accepting fellowship (koinonia)” during her teen years as most influential. She recalls several memorable events in her “steeping in the church”:

n “standing between my mother and aunt in a 1000-voice chorus at Seattle’s Civic Center, belting out “and He shall reign forever and e-e-ver” and believing it!”

n a youth Caravan appointment to Cuba for a college summer

n providing worship for 30 institutionalized teens “and leaning heavily on my 5th-grade Sunday School teacher’s model of ‘just telling us Bible stories.’”

n Working at the Christian Witness and Children’s Center at Seattle World’s Fair (1961-62) with volunteers from 41 denominations

She writes, “These opportunities for the practicing of one’s Christian-ness could easily direct one’s life, and did direct mine!” How do you practice your “Christian-ness”?

on A JoURnEY oF mInIStRY“…you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.” (Mark 12:30)

Coralyn writes, “Though our love cannot be manufactured on command, this verse does keep me on track, unconfused.”

Coralyn headed to McCormick Theological Seminary in Chicago to prepare for “church-sponsored social work. ”There she met Laslo and continued to grow in faith and witness. Students were “encouraged to be ‘out there on the streets’ and ‘in there’ in politics, immigration, poverty and crime alleviation.” She explains, “Serving and ‚the enjoying of our faith,’ along with the increasing

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awareness of God’s majesty and awesomeness as revealed via Christ Jesus, were excellent foundation stones for becoming a minister (though that was never my intention).”

Upon graduation and with new daughter, Cara, in tow, Coralyn was called to Grace Hungarian Reformed Church in Gary, Indiana. Coralyn describes Grace Church as “a wonderful group of second and third generation Hungarian, Slovak and English-language folks.” There she faced a challenge not only with the language (often a Slovakian-speaking ministry colleague accompanied her on visits) but being the first woman to sit on the all-male consistory meetings. All went well, however, for Grace Church called for her ordination.

Coralyn and Laslo have had ministries in Bloomington, Indiana, and New Haven, Connecticut. Along the way, Coralyn completed a Doctor of Ministry degree and worked as a Pastoral Counselor for two decades. Also, their family expanded with the birth of Sylven and the welcome of three older children.

Then Laslo accepted a Global Ministries solo assignment at the Reformed University in Budapest, and for five years they managed a trans-continental relationship. After five years, Coralyn received a call to similar work in Hungary and joined Laslo there. She writes, “The good Lord’s superb timing… Three of our youngsters in college, one returned to her birth mother, and one ready to be on his own! The assignment was a natural fit for me and my years of ministerial experience! And oh, it would be so much better to live and work with my husband again instead of continuing our infrequent oceanic commutes!”

mInIStRY In HUnGARYCoralyn has taught English at the Reformed University’s Teaching College in Nagykoros and Pastoral Counseling in the Theology Department in Budapest. Like all international missionaries, she finds herself involved in a variety of additional tasks from hosting international guests and church visitors to preaching to leading workshops. Also, she writes, „as important are the jobs of being a family member with my aging Seattle mother and siblings, a parent to our New England children, and the giving of good care to my colleagues, friends, and especially to my husband.”

Coralyn describes the most rewarding part of her work as, “seeing our graduates move on to take positions of leadership within the Reformed Church, schools and social welfare institutions, many adapting what we have helped to teach them to fit and better the situations in which they are placed.”

As for the challenges… “the ‚socialist’ mind-set still so influential here which has nurtured mistrust and interferes with the Church being able to freely function as a Christian fellowship. There is a feeling of subjection rather than possibility here.”

FAItH PRActIcESIn her own words, “Each day I consciously ‘go with God’ to whatever my work is. Recently, the daily encouragement of the online UCC Stillspeaking Devotions is such a spiritual reality boost to (anyone’s) ministering that I can’t be without it. Laslo and I share the International Revised Common Lectionary readings and study regularly. My New Haven UCC Church sends out weekly e-mails of their progressive programs. My Fridays are always strengthened by the good and wise people at Bible Study. On Sundays we hear our past students from their pulpits, and on Thursdays we worship with the Theology Department staff and students at the University. Additionally, the work we do generates frequent conversations related to faith, Christianity and the Bible, which usually motivates us to learn and grow in our understanding of the Christian life.” What faith practices do you adhere to?

cHRISt In HUnGARYWhen asked to share a time when she met Christ face-to-face, Coralyn writes:

“We constantly witness persons’ lives being changed by their relationship with the Triune Lord. Laslo’s 50-ish neurologist realized that she is spiritually hungry and would like to begin studying theology and serve God! She wondered if, as a non-Protestant, she could be allowed to study where we teach. [They are exploring options!] Likewise, my Hungarian language tutor, age 40, always wished to study theology rather than filling the librarian slot she was placed in by the earlier regime. We spoke about what would be required to

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1. All the Global Ministries missionaries serving throughout the world

2. People, like the neurologist and language tutor, considering undertaking theological studies.

3. Members of the Reformed Church in Hungary, the United Reformed Church in Great Britain and our other International Partner Churches.

ACTIon oPPoRTUnITIES

1. Write to Coralyn or another Global Ministries missionary encouraging them in their work and mission.

2. Learn more about Hungary. Find it on a map. Familiarize yourself with some of the major issues there today related to social justice for women, children and others.

3. Create a bulletin board display to teach others in your congregation about Hungary and the Reformed Church of Hungary, the UCC’s International Partner Church.

*Ana Gobledale has served our church through Global ministries in South Africa, Zimbabwe, the USA and Australia. She and her husband, tod, currently serve as co-ministers at St. Andrew’s United Reformed church in london.

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allow her life to become more as she believed Christ would want it to be. She decided to study further in the library sciences to become the best she could be, to marry her ‘boyfriend’, and then to begin theology studies to be prepared to do God’s work as God would show that to her.”

Where have you met Christ face-to-face?


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