Perhaps you know that Jesus needed his own "me time." We hear this Sunday in Matthew's gospel that "after Jesus had dismissed the crowds, he went up the mountain by himself to pray." Finding time for personal prayer, meditation, openness to talking to and listening for God in ourselves is soul work—and we all need it. Prayer can look different for each person, but it is my prayer that you have this kind of "me time" for yourself. Maybe you're like Jesus and it's about getting to a quiet place for yourself; maybe you're someone who connects with God on a long run or a brisk hike; maybe you commune with God most clearly when serving others or sharing a meal with loved ones or putting pencil to paper. Whatever it is, you need it—I need it—to simply stay fully alive. This is our soul work, and as Jesus says: What does it profit someone to gain the whole world, but lose their soul? When you notice yourself getting close to that loss, you know how true it is that few things matter as much as tending to our souls. So, friends, make some time for yourself, perhaps with others, but let that "me time" be about connecting you with God's Spirit that is in you and nudges you towards a more abundant life. Beginning next week, I am taking time away to be with my family and out in the beauty of creation in northern Maine. You all will be in my prayers as I am away.
I look forward to returning over Labor Day weekend or shortly thereafter. On Sunday, September 10, we celebrate Rally Day. On that day, at the 10:00 am service, we will have a joyous service with baptisms and the Blessing of the Backpacks, as we begin a new school year. After the 10:00 am service, we will have a festive lunch provided by Bella Isla Café, a restaurant in Chelsea that we’ve partnered with over the years to engage food insecurity. Whether it’s been a week or a few years since you’ve joined for in-person worship at Epiphany, you won’t want to miss the joy and fellowship, the crafts, games, bounce houses, or your chance to see the rector (and maybe others) get wet in the Dunk Tank. I look forward to seeing you there!
Nick
