Our first responsibility, the most potent offering we possess, is gratitude.
Robin Wall Kimmerer Braiding for Sweet Grass
Gratitude. It is a word that can make one’s heart light and also can become stuck in one's throat. Gratitude can fill your soul with joy until you read a certain email or text that sinks like lead to the pit of your stomach. Gratitude is a practice of trusting that God is good and greater than our closed, human created systems. And, it is not easy.
There is a reason our scripture invites us again and again to a posture of gratitude toward God, who is our Creator (it is God who made; and we are God’s - Ps. 100:3) AND our Lord who is near to the brokenhearted (Ps. 34:18).
We invite you into a week of Journeying with Gratitude. This is a real journey that involves honestly expressing what you are NOT grateful while giving space to pay attention for what you are thankful. Here are some ways to engage.
Note these special events coming for Thanksgiving week.
Wednesday, November 24: Thanksgiving Eve Worship |7:30 pm | In person and online
A time of prayer & reflection on gratitude about how God is in the midst of our families and community as we move into this holiday season that can be filled with joy, grief, confusion, and expectation. Take a deep breath and BE in the presence of the One who delights in you.
Thursday, November 25: Thanksgiving One Another!
Once again Union is providing turkey dinners to St Martin’s Senior Men’s Housing and Lake Union Tiny House Village (LUV) on Thanksgiving Day and there is a place for you --even if you have early plans on Thanksgiving! Jump in on Wednesday to carve turkey, clean pans or prep dessert. On Thursday: chop, mash, pack, count, clean or deliver! Enjoy community serving community! It would help planning immensely to know if you will be there either Wednesday (anytime between 3:30pm-7:00pm) or Thursday (anytime between 8:30am-1:00pm)—please text availability to 206.355.5751 or email jeanette@415Westlake.com. Thank you!!
Sunday, November 28: Worship in Action & First Sunday of Advent| 10 am
Outdoor Worship at Lincoln Park.