The subplot develops

So much on my mind - just found out I get to do another sermon mid- May, this time for the traditional AND the contemporary service. Much bigger deal. I was supposed to be doing Greek (almost done!!!) and instead I kept jotting down ideas. Who would have ever thought I would be a preacher? (think Meg Ryan...)

It's been summer-hot here lately, as in: can hardly sleep even with the fan on, I actually wore SHORTS in public, and I put sunscreen on before I went out to garden the other day. Garden! My new hopes and dreams are being realized in what I like to call my "subplot" in the community garden. It is a rejected bit of land right outside the fence. One half is "guarded" by a dumpy looking car. Which means people won't see the veggies and steal them. So far I have only removed a considerable amount of litter and weeded. Next, when Samm and I are lucky enough to have money again, I will buy manure and seeds and probably a few starter plants. Don't worry, I will keep you posted on that.

In other news, I had a really shockingly fun time at the first Youth Group retreat... I think everyone actually had an amazing time (the epic games helped, no doubt) and I felt like they really listened when we talked about them each being a "living stone."

Here is the quote that summarized my challenge to them:


Community is like a large mosaic. Each little piece seems so insignificant.

One piece is bright red, another cold blue or dull green, another

warm purple, another sharp yellow, another shining gold.

Some look precious, others ordinary. Some look valuable, others worthless.

Some look gaudy, others delicate.



As individuals stones, we can do little with them except

compare them and judge their beauty and value.

When, however, all these little stones are brought together

in one big mosaic portraying the face of Christ,

who would ever question the importance of any one of them?

If one of them, even the least spectacular one, is missing, the face is incomplete.



Together in the one mosaic, each little stone is indispensable

and makes a unique contribution to the glory of God. That’s community,

a fellowship of little people who together make God visible in the world.



— Henri Nouwen, Can You Drink the Cup?

The challenge must have taken root, because the group bonded a ton and now all my little stones are dating each other! Eeek! Had not planned on that.