Do not let your hearts be troubled. That’s what Jesus said to his disciples on the night that he was betrayed and arrested. How could he say that? Their world was about to be torn apart. The readings this week are troubling. The first reading tells the story of Stephen being unjustly accused, dragged outside the city and beaten to death with rocks. Peter is writing to a group of people who were being severely persecuted. The Psalmist cries out to God in a time of trial.

There are two key truths that this week’s readings remind me of:

First, life is hard. The domination systems of the world operate through fear, intimidation and violence. Standing up for truth, justice and righteousness will almost always bring persecution. That’s a tough pill to swallow.

Second, the LORD is our refuge. Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. He went to the extremes of persecution, forgave his executioners, buried our sin and shame in the tomb, and rose to new life. There are many dwelling places in the house of God. The grace, love, and power of God are expansive.

Children of God, remember this. You are a royal priesthood, called to be the love of God in the world. God’s got you. Do not let your hearts be troubled.

Gather with us in Chapel on Wednesday to lean into the shelter and refuge of the LORD as we practice a contemplative liturgy and Holy Communion. We will hear scripture, sing, pray, light candles, and sit in silence together.

We will observe our normal weekly rhythm of spiritual practices this week:

Monday

11:00am | Text Study – Zoom

Tuesday

11:00am | Contemplative Practice – OCC Meditation Chapel and on Zoom

Wednesday

11:00am | Service of Holy Communion – Chapel of the Incarnation or on YouTube. Rev. Dr. Steve Thomason, Dean of the Chapel and Associate Professor of Spiritual Formation and Discipleship, will lead a contemplative liturgy.

11:45am | Chapel Cafe – Luther Cafe

Thursday

11:00am | Lunch Church – Dining Room A