Long Talk….

Over the last few days, I have been more intentional in my encounters with God.  Early this morning, I was greeted by the sounds of cicadas.  I could not see them, but their sound would out blast an alarm clock.  As the sunlight broke through the trees, I could hear birds singing, and even hear a splash in Lake Granbury, it was an elusive fish, reminding everyone that they too were present.  This may seem too mystical or even contemplative for some, but for me, it was a reminder of God’s presence.

George Fox wrote, “Walk joyfully on earth and respond to that of God in every human being.”  Throughout my sabbatical, I have enjoyed re-reading my collection of Barbara Brown Taylor books.  I can’t seem to put down the book, “An Altar in the World.”  The thoughts from this book have heightened my awareness of discovering sacred places to encounter God, even in ordinary, daily activities and places.  I now have a greater appreciation and have been challenged to be more intentional in looking for God through nature, songs, reading, exercise, others, and worship.

As day 47 of my sabbatical approaches, I know that my sabbatical time is reaching its final month.  The question that is looming is, “How will I be changed?”  “What changes do I need to make?”  As I have pondered these questions and more, Barbara Brown Taylor’s idea of divine union or divine encounter.  Yes, we can encounter God by ourselves>. As an introvert, it is far too easy for me to isolate myself away from well-meaning circles.  As I have learned, this has not been beneficial for me.  However, there is something sacred about encountering God through others.  By this I mean, people with different perspectives and life experiences.  

One of the great experiences the United Methodist Church offered me was the opportunity to experience seminary in different settings through the Course of Study and Advanced Course of Study.  By traveling to places like Duke Divinity School, SMU, and the campus of Wesley Theological Seminary in Charlotte, North Carolina.  The older I get, the more I appreciate the education received and the friendships made.  For me, these are divine encounters at their best.  It is in these settings, we truly learn what it means to love your neighbor as self, especially those with different perspectives and life experiences.  Learned, that even if I disagree, these people are still my neighbor.  Again, for me, this affirms a unique characteristic of the United Methodist Church, our theological task is both individual and communal.  The older I get, the more I appreciate differing opinions, uncomfortable conversations, and respectful dialogue that helps me see God and God’s world through a wide-angle lens.  Admittedly, I need reminding daily that God has not called me to help him issue judgment, rather God has called me to embrace divine encounters with every living creature and being.  

I’m sure we all know Matthew 25: 34-37 by heart.  “I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink….Truly, I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.”  For me, this passage not only includes humanity but the world in which we live.  The world in which we live is one of God’s greatest gifts and avenues in which we can encounter the Living God.  When was the last time we felt like a stranger?  How did this make us feel?  Barbara Brown Taylor affirms that the one thing we have in common is NOT religion but humanity.  As we encounter both friends and strangers, we are as close to God as we can get.  Let that sink in for a moment.  How does that change our attitudes or conversations?  Does it? 

As I read, and practice encountering God, the question that comes to mind frequently is, what preconceived notions do I need to let go of so that my encounters with others can be divine?  I am also asking over and over, how will my learning “to be” help me as I re-enter another season of ministry.  At this writing, I tend to believe that the answer is in learning to seek divine encounters, there I will encounter God.  To do this, I will need to let go of myself.  

Luke 10: 25-28, “do this, and you will live.”  

Blessings, 

Tom