Dear Friends,

A heartfelt thank you to Molly Sturges for her inspiring presentation last week, "The And-Both of Surrender & Inspired Action." Molly shared about the healing power of music and explored the delicate balance between action and contemplation. She reminded us that without contemplation, we lack awareness, and our actions lose their effectiveness. If you missed it or would like to revisit her talk, you can watch the recording here.

This Sunday marks the second Sunday of Advent, and the theme is peace.

My sermon this week is titled “How to Find Peace in a Troubled World?” What does it mean that Jesus is called the Prince of Peace, yet we live in a world where it feels like every global hotspot is erupting in war? What does it mean when I say, “The peace that passes all understanding,” in my benediction each week? We’ll be exploring the path of peace this Sunday, and I hope you can join us.

Blessings,

Rev. Rich

Readings for the Coming Sunday

Isaiah 9:6-7 - New King James Version

6 For unto us a Child is born,

Unto us a Son is given;

And the government will be upon His shoulder.

And His name will be called

Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,

Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

7 Of the increase of His government and peace

There will be no end,

Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom,

To order it and establish it with judgment and justice

From that time forward, even forever.

The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.

John 14:27 - New King James Version

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.

Swedenborg Insights

Secrets of Heaven 8455

Within peace, you see, lies trust in the Lord: trust that He is in complete charge, takes care of everything, and leads it to a good ending. When we believe this, we are at peace because we fear nothing and have no worries about the future to disturb us.

Thought of the Week