For you shall go out in joy, and be led back in peace; the mountains and the hills before you shall burst into song, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.
[From Worship Resources Year A: Beginning Advent 2013 up to Advent 2014, Herald Publishing House, p. 145]
A few years ago, I was director of an arts retreat sponsored by Community of Christ. In years past we had been able to count on many of the same talented church members to teach classes, lead choirs, and provide leadership at the retreat. This year was different. It seemed most of the regulars I called to invite to participate in the planning were either too busy or were dealing with family or personal challenges. Some found themselves feeling burnt out and felt they needed a break. Soon I was overwhelmed as the months of planning came and went. I found myself praying and seeking God’s guidance as I desperately searched for new ways to “do” the retreat.
Although I was still stressed about planning the retreat, pieces were falling into place, and I could see God was listening. They seemed simple coincidences at first: my husband got in touch with an old high school friend who happened to be an oil and acrylic artist. She was thrilled when we invited her to offer a painting class at the retreat. A co-worker of a Community of Christ member had a wife who volunteered to offer her arts-focused worship. My brother was introduced to a friend of a friend who taught creative movement, native dance, and led drumming circles. This woman was excited when she heard about our retreat and was receptive to bringing her family to the campgrounds to offer three classes. A church-member writer who was unable to be at the retreat in person graciously called another published author who agreed to teach two introductory creative writing classes.
None of these people were Community of Christ members but they were excited about the opportunity to share their giftedness with such an enthusiastic group as ours. In addition, several church members we had underutilized in the past came forward and offered to teach classes or take on new responsibilities. We decided to open the retreat to the local community and were blessed when a family of musicians and several local artists attended the retreat. We all experienced something unique and precious.
As I opened myself to God’s creative solutions, I was forced to let go of my own ideas and sense of control. I began to trust people in new ways as they longed to share their talents and be part of a creative community. The Enduring Principle Sacredness of Creation was evident in the glory and generous nature of God. When we are vulnerable to God’s vision for our lives, our talents are magnified. May we find ourselves open to many ways we can give. God will provide if we commit our lives to God’s work in this world.
Prayer Phrase
“See, I am making all things new” (Revelation 21:5).
Weaving a Life
Hold, or imagine yourself holding, a piece of patterned cloth. Examine it carefully. Notice overlapping threads, mingling colors that form the design. Write a journal entry or meditate about the threads and patterns of your life. What design do you see? How does the life pattern you are weaving create justice and wholeness in God’s world? What new pattern is God calling you to weave?
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.