I preached this sermon today at North United Methodist Church, the place I've called my church and my job for the past nine years. This sermon is a reflection on the Parable of the Sower as well as my time in ministry with the youth, parents, volunteers and congregation of North UMC. +++ Luke 8:4-8… Continue reading Seeds, Fruit and Roots – A Sermon
One Word Check-In
When I chose Gratitude to be my one word for this year, I really had no idea how appropriate it would be. I initially chose it because I wanted to be happier with my life and by focusing on gratitude I figured my attitude and perspective would change. I was right about that. Each morning… Continue reading One Word Check-In
However
I just read a John O’Donohue blessing called For the Time of Necessary Decision. I wish I had read it six months ago, but perhaps reading it after the fact was meant to be. Reading it in its entirety left me a little awe struck at how far I’ve come. Here’s one section: We drift… Continue reading However
Laps
For most of the country this is Memorial Day weekend. Here in Indianapolis it’s more likely to be called Race Weekend. The Indy 500 is a huge tradition – some are more invested than others. Growing up I recall the race being broadcasted on the radio. It was background noise for me. I’ve never understood… Continue reading Laps
Interim
I often start my day with a poem or blessing – to get my mind moving, to get beyond the thoughts rolling around in my head. More often than not, these words of others bring together ideas I’ve had but were unsure how to express. This morning was no different. From John O’Donohue, I read… Continue reading Interim
Anyone
Yesterday I listened to the most recent episode of the Unhurried Living Podcast by Alan and Gem Fadling. This first season of the podcast is focused on themes from Alan’s newest book Unhurried Leader that comes out next month. In the latest episode Alan had a conversation with Doug Fields – a well-known leader and… Continue reading Anyone
Lasts
As I’ve been preparing for tonight the only thing I had in mind was this: It’s Josh’s last youth group and we need to make it awesome for him. Josh was my intern for the past two years. Over my time at North I’ve had a college intern most years – some for a semester,… Continue reading Lasts
Abundance
It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the grief and sadness. Some days staying in a dark place is more comfortable than seeking out the light. However, for the most part, I have found myself preferring light over dark. Instead of living in scarcity, I’ve chosen abundance. When I look for abundance, it’s so easy to… Continue reading Abundance
Drained
Ever since college, I’ve tried to give blood regularly, although it doesn’t always happen regularly – I’ve gone years without donating. Something will trigger me and then I’ll find myself back in the habit. Even though I hate needles, I know the importance of giving blood and I don’t usually mind taking the time out… Continue reading Drained
Tomorrow
Each morning as part of my routine, I read a blessing before I begin any journaling, prayers or Bible reading. Some blessings are connected to the season, like many of Jan Richardson’s. Right now I’m reading through John O’Donohue’s To Bless the Space Between Us. I come back to this one during the “ordinary times”… Continue reading Tomorrow
Anne Brock 