Today’s Reflection
The personality of a church is shown through the way people interact, the care they have for one another, the nurturing fellowship, and the sweet fragrance of respect that permeates everything. Even the architecture, windows in every classroom, open spaces in the pastor’s study with an administrative office nearby, speaks to openness and honesty. The presence of two teachers in every classroom, the sign-in and sign-out sheets for parents with children in the nursery speak to accountability. These are neon signs that shout, “We care about you, we want you safe, we hide nothing here.” This is the kind of church people want to join because there is a promise of openness and honesty, a promise of boundaries and safety.
Bishop Peggy Johnson, “The Effects, Known and Unknown,” in Safer Sanctuaries: Nurturing Trust Within Faith Communities (Discipleship Resources, 2023)
Today’s Question
How would you describe your church’s personality? Join the conversation.
Today’s Scripture
Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture.
—Psalm 37:3 (NIV)
Prayer for the Week
Holy God, we recognize that all people are entrusted to our care. We respond to your will for us to watch over one another. Help us keep our eyes alert to dangers and keep our ears attentive to even silent cries for help. Use our community to be a place of safety for all. Amen. [prayer adapted from Safer Sanctuaries]
Submit your prayer to The Upper Room.
Something More
Now available in Spanish, Safer Sanctuaries is a trusted source of guidance for churches and other affiliated institutions as they work to reduce the risk of abuse in their communities. Learn more at SaferSanctuaries.org.
Lectionary Readings
- Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10
- Psalm 19
- 1 Corinthians 12:12-31a
- Luke 4:14-21
Read the lectionary texts courtesy of Vanderbilt Divinity Library here.
Looking for lectionary-based resources? Learn more about The Upper Room Disciplines.
4 Comments
Outreaches I!!
Outreaches I!! / Outtreaching/Missional
I can’t find the one word that describes the personality of CCUMC. that’s not a skill I have.. There are positives and and issues. I’d like to think we are making progress. Thank You, Lord, for being ever present.
Robert, All churches have issues, resolving them with Grace is our calling !!!
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