Dear Glen Morris United Church, 

Because it seems an unavoidable theme with almost every person I talk to these days, I want to take a moment to talk with you about these turbulent times we find ourselves in. As I write, forest fires rage in California, celebrations of a ceasefire in Israel/Palestine are fraught with ongoing violence, and Donald Trump prepares to take office as the next US president on Monday. (Trump’s recent comments about Canada have included economic threats that could have large consequences here in Canada, and especially South-Western Ontario). 

In times when so much feels uncertain, where we may feel like we have very little power to create change - our faith remains all the more important. When Mary (a teenager from a long-oppressed minority) found out she was pregnant, she believed that her child could change the world. The story of Jesus’ life is a reminder that our belief in a loving and just God is powerful enough to tear down a world built on fear, power, and control so that a new world of peace, restoration, and joy can emerge. This work isn’t easy or done overnight - but by building community, caring for the “last” and the “least,” and finding ways to serve others, God’s work is done. 

These are days of fragile joy and fragile peace. I find myself drawn to those short videos of animal rescues - seeing a sick stray dog that’s skin and bones come back to life once they receive shelter, food, and love. I think it’s because this is the embodiment of what the whole world is needing right now and proof that even if you can’t change everything, you still have the power to change an entire world for whoever you decide to show love and compassion for. 

 

May the Peace of Christ be with all of us, helping us in all our small acts of tending and mending of the world, 

 

Yours in Christ, 

Rev Michiko