Isaiah 55 has a verse we’ll hear this Sunday: “Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread, and your labor for that which does not satisfy?” Those questions always get me. I often spend money on things which do not feed or nourish me. There are so many promises about how things we can buy will give happiness (especially in a consumer society). Yet I soon find they do not nourish me as much as a good conversation or a walk under the trees will do. Do you find that, too? Do you find that you labor but do not find your being nurtured?
The prophet Isaiah goes on to invite us to “Listen carefully, and eat what is good, and delight yourselves in rich food.” Isaiah tells the people that God’s desire is for them to eat and find delight. This is not a puritanical view of God, but one where God longs for joy in our lives – even for us to metabolize joy! Listening plays an important role. I find it helpful to set time aside each week to listen. To remember God is love. To remember what is sacred. To remember how I want to live. To remember our mortality and to cherish opportunities now for that which nourishes (and even rich food!).
People of St. Timothy – during these summer days, carve out a little time to listen for what feeds your soul. Grateful for your partnership in this journey.
Peace,
Hans
Three Holy Days
In our tradition, we make space on Maundy Thursday to remember central parts of our faith story. We hear about the...
