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“Shelter” by Karen Tamminga-Paton
by Karen Wilk
As I reflect on this month’s theme of discernment, I wonder if learning to discern is indeed part of the calling of God’s people to be “elders” in our communities. We first encounter the word “ecclesia,” which we usually translate as “church” in the Bible, when Jesus says, “On this rock I will build my ecclesia.” The ‘ecclesia’ originally referred to ‘a gathering of wise community leaders, brought together by their common vision of the ‘Shalom’ of the wider community. In essence, the ecclesia was a community within a community whose function was to add value to the place where they lived. (Michael Frost & Alan Hirsch, ReJesus, 32)
Paul tells Titus (1:5) and us, “To appoint elders in every city.”
But where should we appoint these elders? And what does it look like to not only grow older, but to grow older?
Could the church really be the wise, thoughtful, Shalom-seeking, and embodying leaders/elders among, with, and for their neighborhoods? I wonder and I invite you to think with me:
Parent vs parent
We are all getting older
That doesn’t change anything
We can try to cover it up, makeup
…..Hide where we are
Yet
…..That
…..…..Every day, month, year passes
…..…..…..…..…..…..…..…..…..…..is a fact.
The question is
Are we getting older?
Wiser, more present and aware
Not only ourselves, but also others to care for
Responsible, risky sharing
…..Willing to listen, our opinions sparingly
…..…..grow in integrity and humility
…..…..…..Our postures show respect and kindness
Ready to welcome, everyone accepts
God at work, image bearer of the Creator.
Not everyone who grows old grows older.
Some become selfish, grumpy, bitter.
Are we wrinkled by time?
…..Or with the thoughtful lines of the sage?
Do we only have pain from stiffness pain?
…..Or with sadness because you hold the rein?
Though tired from interrupted restless sleep
…..Do our eyes weep with those who suffer and mourn?
Can we,
…..shall we,
…..…..pay attention, stay awake
…..Will we speak out, ask questions, do what is necessary?
Will we not only grow older, but also grow older?
…..living love and grace, a helper, a shelter.
It’s time to sign up for our upcoming retreat Spiritual Discernment: Finding Direction in a Confusing World. Christine Sine will facilitate an exploration of practices that enable us to become “all ears” and listen to the voice of God in all circumstances. This session will be full of useful input, discussion and creativity. Come join us and learn to listen more deeply to the voice of God.
Register for all three upcoming retreats with a significant discount.
