The phrase ‘Thoughts and Prayers’ is a common expression of condolence. Prayer is many things: meditation, quietness, introspection, contemplation, silence, wonder . . .  Pastor Dan talks about the varied forms that prayer can take.

We know plastic clogs landfills and fouls lakes, yet we increase production. The Bible tells us to treat the planet with gratitude and steward its resources. Pastor Jody asks us to rethink our relationship with Creation and imagine alternatives to plastic.

Even those who don’t know the Bible know about the Good Samaritan. Most people concentrate on the outsider who offered aid, but what about the victim? Pastor Dan offers 28 questions inspired by a powerless person who can only receive mercy.

The writer of Galatians says all are one in Christ – jew and gentile, slave and free, male and female. People of color in our country have long experienced injustice in education, health care, and economic opportunity. Pastor Jody discusses how we can make a difference.

Local artist Ruth Crowe says: ‘I have worn many hats, but none gives me greater pleasure than that of the artist. It is filled with contradictions. It is a tough life. Yet the easiest. It is pressure-filled. Yet joyful. It is painful. Yet rewarding. It is what we do.’

(begins with a clip from the song “Only A Lifetime” by Finneas)

Pastor Dan shares two life experiences related to a story in Acts 10 where God encourages Luke not to refuse any food that is ‘on the menu.‘

When Jesus’ disciples gathered to observe a harvest festival, something strange happened: tongues of fire rested on their heads. People who were timid and fearful became more focused after this experience. Pastor Dan explores what that might mean for us.

Pastor Jody informs us that 496 anti-LGBTQI+ bills are being considered in the US. Transgender folk have it worse than most. 5% of youth identify as trans or non-binary, and 35% of them live in states that ban gender affirming care! This month, we focus on folks who are still discriminated against.

Only Luke wrote about Christ’s Ascension, and it made the disciples scratch their heads. Pastor Dan explains that we can do what Jesus did when his feet were on the ground – heal, forgive, and more – because the essence of who he was is very much alive.

Frank Lloyd Wright completed many works after the age of 80. A man who passed the bar in 1950 still practices law. Many factors contribute to the ability to work or to transition to new activities as we age. Pastor Jody talks about the book of Revelation and its message that God is always making all things new.