Today’s Reflection
As we approach the work of creating safer sanctuaries, we strive for flourishing, not fear, to always be first and foremost in our minds. The fear of abuse, the fear of harm, the fear of litigation, and the fear of all the negative outcomes that we are trying to avoid with this work is understandable. These threats are real. Nevertheless, the goal of establishing healthy relationships and healthy boundaries that nurture strong and growing faith communities is always our guiding principle. . . . As we focus on the life-giving, nurturing work of God’s righteousness, our work and this ministry will become a source of joy. In return, God promises to fulfill all our needs, and this includes vanquishing our fears.
Bishop Peggy Johnson, “Flourishing, Not Fear: A Theology of Safety and Sanctuary,” in Safer Sanctuaries: Nurturing Trust Within Faith Communities (Discipleship Resources, 2023)
Today’s Question
How can healthy boundaries protect children and adults? Join the conversation.
Today’s Scripture
God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
—2 Timothy 1:7 (NKJV)
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.
2 Comments
Healthy boundaries are essential to protect women and children. The concept of these boundaries need to be rooted in everyone. Scripture tells us and guides us. Being a believer and follower of Jesus teaches us what to do. Be a witness to the Good News and more people will learn, understand, and uphold healthy boundaries. Bishop Peggy Johnson recently led the New England Conference of the UMC and preached at CCUMC. Thank You, Lord
Healthy boundaries are necessary for all, in order to promote respect and for all around health to prosper. This should not be assumed to organically happen. Intentional awareness and proactive measures should be the norm.
It was very good (and deceiving) to see sunshine for much of the day. But, it was oh so cold. I can remember growing up my mom saying – “you know it’s cold when the snow crunches”. Lots of crunching going on today. I found some outdoor spigot protectors my uncle had purchased for me several winters ago when it got bitterly cold. I managed to put them on today – I assume correctly enough.
It has been enjoyable to read leisurely these past few days. I also called up my doubles partner and we met to play tennis in the afternoon.
Will be getting to bed early tonight – as last night was a late one staying up and watching the game.
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