"Do not get lost in a sea of despair. Be hopeful, be optimistic. Our struggle is not the struggle of a day, a week, a month, or a year, it is the struggle of a lifetime. Never, ever be afraid to make some noise and get in good trouble, necessary trouble."
-Rep. John Lewis,
June 2018
This weekend, we lost two civil rights icons, Rep. John Lewis and Rev. C.T. Vivian. I found myself spending the entire weekend reflecting on their lives and the legacy they each left behind. These two men were just that. Men. But they were so much more than that. They were heroes. They did not get lost in despair. They got into good trouble in the struggle of a lifetime.

Maybe that's why Pastor Taylor's sermon about yeast and the kindom of God was so powerful for me. Lewis and Vivian were like yeast that is present in the everyday, regular places. Through their strength and activism, they exemplified how seemingly small actions can grow into something that yields so much more. We, too, are called to rise up and make a difference in bringing forth the kindom of God.
We have two great opportunities to bring about the kindom of God this week. Our online Vacation Bible School, Compassion Camp, starts TODAY! It's not too late to register to receive the emails. All ages are invited to participate. And, Pastor Brad Fuerst is leading a workshop this Saturday on the spiritual practice of ... bread making!

I hope you will join one or both and send me pictures or notes about how you are rising up, seeing and showing compassion to your neighbors, or experimenting with bread and yeast! Email me ( barnabas@fumcaustin.org ) or post on social media (#FUMCBarnabas). I can't wait to see what you share!

Be encouraged.
Barnabas
First United Methodist Church
1201 Lavaca St.
Austin, TX 78731