"I wish it need not have happened in my time,” said Frodo. “So do I,” said Gandalf, “and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”

- The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring,
J.R.R. Tolkien
Tolkien is one of my favorite authors. I love his epic tale. This exchange between Frodo and Gandalf really resonates with me, especially now. I know it must reflect how our high school youth feel this week as they are unable to embark on their annual trek to ASP. Imagine my surprise when I came across a local protestor the other day with the same quote afixed to her backpack! It really sums up our national strife. So, what are we going to do with the time we're given? God is the Good Shepherd that has fortified us to take a stand for the whole flock, our siblings in Christ. Pray this prayer this week and see if you can discern God's call for you.
May God bless you with discomfort,
At easy answers, half-truths,
And superficial relationships
So that you may live
Deep within your heart.

May God bless you with anger
At injustice, oppression,
And exploitation of people,
So that you may work for
Justice, freedom and peace.

May God bless you with tears,
To shed for those who suffer pain,
Rejection, hunger and war,
So that you may reach out your hand
To comfort them and
To turn their pain to joy

And may God bless you
With enough foolishness
To believe that you can
Make a difference in the world,
So that you can do
What others claim cannot be done
To bring justice and kindness
To all our children and the poor.

Amen.

- A Franciscan Blessing
Thanks to everyone who shared your parable fun from last week. Here's a look at a few of your responses to the parable of the sower:
This week, Pastor Brad Fuerst, preached on the parable of the good shepherd. How can you live this parable this week? Download the June activity PDF here . Feel free to be creative with your own expression! Remember to email me ( barnabas@fumcaustin.org ) or post on social media ( #FUMCBarnabas ) the ways you play along with the parable this week. We'll share a few submissions during worship Sunday. See you soon!

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