Some Bible stories become so familiar that we forget how unsettling they really are. Noah’s ark may be one of the clearest examples. Many of us first encountered it through children’s books with brightly colored animals and a sturdy wooden boat.
But the story of Noah and the flood asks many difficult questions about judgment, suffering, human violence, and the character of God. These are questions that do not disappear simply because the story ends with a rainbow.
And yet, that rainbow still matters. Because after the waters recede, God makes a covenant not only with Noah, but with “every living creature.” Again and again, God’s promise is often wider than we expect. I think that’s a good place for us to begin as we enter our fall worship theme, Called for More.
God’s “More” is rooted in expanding our understanding of who our neighbor is and what faithful life can become. To put it plainly, there is always more love to practice. More grace to receive. More of ourselves to offer for the sake of one another.
As we consider how God calls us to more, I wanted to share that one of the families our community has been accompanying as they seek asylum will travel downtown on Tuesday, September 8, for a routine court hearing connected with their case. The family is doing well, and we are grateful for the ways our congregation has been able to surround them with warmth and support.
At the same time, experiences surrounding immigration proceedings can carry considerable stress. The visible presence of immigration enforcement makes an already difficult day even more frightening.
So on Tuesday morning, as you wake up and begin your day, we invite our whole congregation to pray. Pray for their family. For safety, peace, and an awareness that they are surrounded by people who care for them. Pray for those of us who will accompany them as friends willing to stand beside them. Pray for everyone who enters our immigration and court systems.
Pray, because our flourishing is connected. The safety of all families matters to God. The health of creation matters to God. All of us belong beneath the same rainbow.
From there, hear this invitation again: You are called for more. This week, one expression of that calling can be remarkably simple. Wake up Tuesday. Remember this family from our community. And pray.
And then watch for the places where your prayer might become presence, generosity, hospitality, advocacy, patience, or love. Let this be a reminder that even in a wounded world, God is calling us for more.
A Prayer for Tuesday
God of the covenant,
you placed your bow in the clouds
and promised your faithfulness to the whole earth.
When our neighbors face uncertainty,
make us generous with our presence.
We pray especially for the family from our community
who will enter court today.
Surround them with safety and peace.
Calm anxious hearts and give courage for each step of the day.
Be with those who serve in our courts, government, and communities.
Grant wisdom, humanity, and a commitment to justice.
Call us again into your wide and faithful love. Amen.
Peace,
Pastor Katie
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