Based on the scripture for this week, I wanted to share the devotion I wrote for the Speaking Truth devotion and prayer book that came out in 2020 featuring young United Methodist clergywomen:
Do not remember the former things, or consider the things of old. I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. – Isaiah 43:18-19 NRSV
When a new opportunity, relationship, career, project, etc. comes along do you find yourself in a state of overthinking, self-doubt, and restlessness? Perhaps these feelings surface immediately and you find yourself unable to take the first step. Or maybe you begin confident, eager, and ready to take on the world, but when an unexpected bump hits – the paralyzing fear sets in. No matters when the doubt, worry, and uncertainty strikes, you are not alone!
The Divine is inviting us to be co-creators as we grow through life’s experiences. While the Spirit is nudging us forward to witness and take part in the new thing, we hold ourselves back by focusing on the past. It might seem as though you are trapped or strangled by negative thoughts and feelings, or the haunting voices of others will not allow you to fully explore or embrace the new opportunity or season God is calling you to. It is the former things that are familiar and known, even if it is negative, that can give us a sense of false comfort. It takes courage to not only let go, but walk away from the things in our past that do not give us life. Name the voices, either your own or those of others and face them so they no longer have power over you! God calls us to rise up from the ashes of what was and courageously move forward to the new and unknown carrying with us what we have learned rather than being stuck in the pit of what was.
This new life can, and often starts, in the wilderness. In fact, the new thing that God is doing might even seem like a mirage! But look and reflect again – God is faithful in bringing light to even the darkest of moments, thoughts, and feelings. What former things do you need to let go of in order to rise up and move onto the new things God is showing you, calling you to, or doing in your life?
This Sunday, the creation care practice you are invited to participate in is picking up an Earthbreeze laundry sheet in the Welcome Center to try at home as a way to reduce laundry waste, prevent single-use plastic, and support wildlife. Rev. Becky Motter, the Executive Director of the Wesley Foundation, a campus ministry at the Univ of Cincinnati, will be joining us to share about the ministry and how you can get connected!
Peace,
Pastor Kate