Browsing by Sharron R. Blezard
Giving REALLY is Better than Receiving!
“Human generosity, far from being a thin veneer of cultural conditioning atop a Machiavellian core, may turn out to be a bedrock feature of human nature,†concluded UC-Santa Barbara psychologists in a recent study. Writing in Scientific American, author Maria Konnikova cites research supporting that it is more blessed to give than to receive. (Photo: Asenat29, Creative Commons)
Preparing the Way in Process
Narrative Lectionary Reflection, Year 3, January 8, 2017
We are people in process. That process begins at baptism, when we are named and claimed as beloved children of God, but it certainly doesn’t end there. We walk wet in this world to prepare the way, proclaim the good news, and live as faithful folk. (Photo: Joe Mabel, Creative Commons)
Walk Wet and Share the Good News
Baptism of our Lord, Year A, January 8, 2017
This week’s gospel is a great springboard to remember and give thanks for your baptism, but don’t stop there! We have good news to share as we walk wet in this world. (Photo: Waiting for the Word, Creative Commons License)
The Budgeting/Happiness Connection
Budgeting may not only improve one’s financial condition but also one’s happiness. Good budgeting is also connected to smarter spending. Check out this article and see how you can adjust your spending habits to yield more satisfaction with life. (Photo: taxcredits.net, Creative Commons)
Seeing God and Living Hope
First Sunday of Christmas, Narrative Lectionary Year 3, January 1, 2017
The faithful witness of elders Simeon and Anna is important for our own faith and stewardship of the good news. They inspire us to praise, sing, and share the good news of enduring Christmas hope and promise in a world that has already moved on to the next new thing. (Photo: © Chariclo – Fotolia.com)
Unlikely Dance Partners: Lament and Hope
First Sunday of Christmas Year A, January 1, 2017
How quickly we move from the celebration and joy of Christmas day to the reality of the world’s brokenness. Yes, it’s a delicate dance between lament and hope, but Christmas isn’t nearly over yet, and we trust that the arc of justice does bend and find fulfillment in Christ. (Photo: semelina, Creative Commons)
Here Comes Christmas!
Christmas Eve/Day, Year A
Yes, Christmas comes—ready or not. For an hour or two we share God’s inbreaking into our human condition, hopefully in ways that can be heard but also seen, felt, tasted, and born afresh in each beating heart. Blessings on your preaching and teaching! (Photo: Waiting for the Word)
Enter Here
Narrative Lectionary Reflection for December 28, 2014 (Year One)
One of the wonderful aspects of the Narrative Lectionary is that we are afforded the opportunity to enter into the Christmas story one more time. And we’ll hear it without any of the pressures and expectations that so often accompany the faithful and seekers alike on Christmas Eve. How will you make the most of this opportunity? (Photo: Waiting for the Word, Creative Commons License)
Disposing of Waste Responsibly
4.4 pounds of trash per day? Yes, that’s the amount an average person throws away. In addition to reducing that amount, disposing responsibly matters. Here are some suggestions. (Photo: Grant Hutchins, Creative Commons)
10 Children’s Books that Inspire Simplicity
In this season of gift-giving (often to excess!), why not give children on your list a book that will help inspire simplicity and teach stewardship. Here are 10 suggestions to consider. (Photo: San Jose Library, Creative Commons)
