Browsing by Sharron R. Blezard

Jesus > Chaos + Fear + Doubt

Ninth Sunday after Pentecost Year A, August 10, 2014
Going through chaos into unknown and/or hostile territory makes for some fine drama, unless of course you are the one who is experiencing it. In this week’s gospel reading, Jesus sends the disciples into life’s storms, and they fail to recognize him. How might we be like those early followers? (Photo: Binny V A, Creative Commons)

Divine Hospitality & Abundance

Eighth Sunday after Pentecost Year A, August 3, 2014
There is so much more than mere money to God’s abundance; in fact, by honoring all aspects of God’s abundance and desire for us to live life to its fullest, we are equipped to better understand how to weave our understanding and right use of financial resources into our daily living. (Photo: Amy Gaertner, Creative Commons)

Do You Really Get It?

Seventh Sunday after Pentecost Year A July 27, 2014 Have you understood all this?” They answered, “Yes.” And he said to them, “Therefore every scribe who has been trained for the kingdom of heaven is like the master of a household who brings out of his treasure what is new and what is old.” Matthew […]

Too Much, Too Fast, Too Unhealthy

Yep, new Barna Group research shows that Americans are concerned about their weight and unhealthy eating habits. Check out this article and ponder Paul’s words in Romans 7:15-17. How can we be better stewards of health and self? (Photo: Doc Searls, Creative Commons)

Plastic Purge

Want to know more about plastics, their effects on humans and the environment, and how to recycle them properly? Here’s a comprehensive article from UTNE Reader by Plastic Purge author Michael SanClements. You’re almost there. Click the title to be redirected. (Photo: Katherine Davis, Creative Commons)

In Process

If you’ve ever undertaken a church renovation or home restoration project, you understand a thing or two about what it means to be “in process.” Dwellings need continual upkeep and maintenance to remain sound and functional. So do organisms and organizations. The Body of Christ is no exception to the rule. (Photo by Jeremy Levine, used by Creative Commons license)

How Giving Transformed Grief

We all have something to give in every stage of our lives. Here’s a story by Cindy del Rosario about how one dad transformed the grief of losing his son to cancer into a way to help other children facing the disease. (Photo: Emilio Nares Foundation)

The Human Face of Climate Change

Check out this excellent article by Ben Lowe in the current issue or Relevant Magazine. To read the entire article, you’ll need to register, but it’s well worth it. (Photo: William Warby, Creative Commons)

Word

Fifth Sunday after Pentecost, Year A
How are we respond to the creative word and redeeming purpose of God? The answer is a simple one. We, the created and beloved, are to praise God and offer our thanks. We are to use our humble gifts of human voice, word, and action in joyous and grateful response to God’s amazing “Word” of grace, love, and mercy. (Photo: John Morgan, Creative Commons)

What! No More Pledge Cards?

Ever wonder what might happen if your stewardship team or committee decided to ditch the annual pledge cards? Check out this short drama written by the Rev. E. Angela Emerson, Minister of Stewardship Development, The Episcopal Diocese of Vermont. (Photo: Richard Rutter, Creative Commons)