Words of Light and Hope from Rev’d Judith Sweetman

Words of Light and Hope from Rev’d Judith Sweetman

 

From: Befriending the Stranger, by Jean Vanier

In the midst of all the violence and  corruption of the world, God invites us to create new places of belonging, places of sharing, of peace and of  kindness; places where no-one needs to defend himself or herself; places where each one is loved and  accepted with one’s own fragility, abilities and disabilities. This is my vision for our churches: that they become places of belonging, places of sharing.

 

The Way It Is, by William Stafford

There’s a thread that you follow.

It goes among things that change.

But it doesn’t change.

People wonder about what you are pursuing.

You have to explain about the thread.

But it’s hard for others to see.

While you hold it, you can’t get lost.

Tragedies happen, people get hurt

Or die; and you suffer and get old.

Nothing you do can stop time’s unfolding.

You don’t ever let go of the thread.

 

I Commend My Life, by David Adam

Lord God, my redeemer and friend,

It is you who gives me strength and courage to live.

When I am low, you raise me up.

When I am lost, you lead me forward.

When I am weak, you comfort and  encourage me.

When I am troubled, you touch me with your peace.

In your hands alone is fullness of life.

In you alone is life eternal.

Into your hands, O God,

I commend my life.