This title is the first incarnation of the reflections on my heart, inspired by a healing story in Acts 3. It’s the first story after the story of Pentecost (the coming of the Holy Spirit). Like any action story it has many dimensions and possible emphases, characters etc. However, for 20+ years what’s captivated me is the Holy Spirit’s presence and power FOR SAYING NO. FOR DISCERNMENT. FOR BOUNDARIES. And all of these offered in a Christian way, a loving and wise way, from a commitment to service and healing.

As I prepare to invite us into discernment of the lessons from this story for 2022 (for you, for us, for me)… I ask you to pray. Pray for the Spirit’s strength to respond to the needs around you in a discerned way, following Christ’s example of sacrificial (FREELY OFFERED) love and blessing. Pray for the clarity to name your own needs as best you can, and the humility to accept what God responds with when it’s even better for you than you imagined. Pray for the gift of community, and for the grace and vision to build it together.

Pray, pray, pray.

Peace and love,

Pastor Jacki