Dear Friends,

Last Sunday our reflection focused on being “called by name.” We noted Jesus, calling Thomas by name as he invited his touch upon his wounds; we celebrated Rafael….called God’s beloved as he was welcomed to the Spirit of Life and was baptized / immersed in the waters of baptism, and the call each of us personally receives by name. This Sunday, we have a view of the apostles as they wrestle “incredulously” with the image of the risen Christ….appearing out of nowhere…

entering into their locked space….and now, eating their fish!!!   I have ‘flesh and bones’ Jesus declares to them, which may reassure them that he can handle the fish, but does little to soften their amazement. Perhaps they had an image of how this risen Christ would be present to them…clearly eating their dinner wasn’t in it.  Amazing! Their amazement leads me to ask: “When was the last time I…or you…were “amazed” by God’s presence in my/your life?” …..perhaps showing up in a form or situation beyond what we’d imagined?”  We, like those gathered in the locked room, all have much to learn and experience as we search for a deeper or more ‘real’ way connection with our God. Keeping our eyes open….allowing ourselves to touch and be moved by the wounds and woundedness within ourselves and others…welcoming others into the ‘locked spaces’ of our own heart…or head, letting the Fire of God’s love light a flame within us so that we can bring light to others….and share our dinner with them as well.

At The Spirit of Life, we work together in prayer and companionship to loosen the attitudes and brokenness which can hold us bound. We believe that God’s desire for us is that we be “Whole” and thus “Holy”… full of life , unfettered by life-destroying prejudices and free to move openly as the Spirit calls us. Our belief in the sacredness of all created beings and loving relationships compels us to respond with care and compassion to all who are marginalized in our church and world. We invite you to come and to pray with us as we “do our own work” in growing into a deeper awareness of our own gifts and ‘growing edges’ and together create a community that invites diversity and honors the uniqueness of each individual and every journey. We are confident that you will feel welcome in the “home” of The Spirit of Life. 

Abundant Blessings of peace, hope….and amazement!

Jean & Ron