When God loves, He gives - and He gives us Himself. We in turn are to give ourselves to our brothers and sisters. We become what we eat, and in that way we take the Bread of Life to the world.

Consider the following quote, attributed to Rev. Hugh L. Hollowell:

"Every time we use religion to draw a line that keeps people out, Jesus is with the people on the other side of that line."

Jesus chose to associate with those who were marginalized; those who were broken and wounded; those who were unpopular and scorned. It's so important for us, it we're to be faithful to Jesus, to be really alert on times and ways we start drawing a line and separating people apart.

To argue in good faith, with conviction, but also with respect - this is a gift that we as Christians can offer the world right now, when we're so divided and at one another's throats. Remember that you are one in 700 trillion, chosen very particularly by God, and so when you run into one of those differences that seem so threatening and insurmountable, remember that God is with you. Create the space for Him to act. Listen, and affirm what you can.

Just as God sent Amos and Jesus sent his 12 disciples, so too are we sent out on the same mission: to preach repentance and the truth with courage, to banish evil with prayer, and to help the sick with our presence and healing love.

It is in our weakness and discomfort that we can more fully rely upon and experience God's strength.

Fr. Dave asks three questions: Why are we here? Where are we going? How do we get there? The answer to each question evokes the same response: wow.

The backdrop to accepting change with grace, and to being filled with Grace through the process of change, is recognizing and relying on a God who doesn't change - a God who is more powerful than the storm, and who cares for each of us, and who we can trust.

Memento mori – remember that you must die. Remember that your life here is passing. That, ultimately, you’re accountable only to God. That you have a destiny beyond this world.

We have a community around us, we have sacraments, we have the Word of God, we have the Holy Spirit - all of these equip us so that we are ready for whatever comes our way. We don't need to fold over or give in or give up. Instead, we hold true to Jesus Christ - a faithful presence in a less-faithful world.

The Father is my loving Father. I am His beloved child. You are his beloved child. And he is indeed well pleased with each of us, not because of anything we’ve done, but because of who He is.