Resilient Faith

As we tread the solemn path of Holy Week, we invite you to walk with us through the poignant contrasts of Palm Sunday and the ensuing days that shaped the very foundation of faith. In the latest episode of Resilient Faith, we'll unravel the complexities of trust, particularly during Lent, and the challenge of keeping faith amid life's inevitable uncertainties. Prepare to experience a journey through the key moments of Holy Week, as we take you from the jubilation of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem to the introspective reflection brought upon by His suffering and crucifixion. Together, we'll share a prayer and extend an open invitation to participate in the upcoming services at Brentwood Presbyterian Church, fostering a space for continuous spiritual growth and resilience.Amidst the trials we face, the strength of our faith is often tested. This episode of Resilient Faith is more than just a recount of biblical events; it's an exploration of how unwavering belief serves as an anchor in believers' lives, through prosperity and adversity alike. Delve  into Brentwood Presbyterian Church's dedication to nurturing a resilient community in West Los Angeles, reinforcing faith's role as a sustaining force. We discuss the importance of connection in these trying times and invite you to join the conversation through our social media platforms. This Holy Week, allow the Resilient Faith podcast to guide you in cultivating a faith robust enough to weather life's storms and emerge steadfast and hopeful.Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

Imagine the profound impact trust can have on our lives, the resilience it builds, and the depth it adds to our spirituality. That's exactly what we explore in this episode of Resilient Faith, where we delve into the beauty of the natural world and its cycles that offer us comfort and a sense of certainty. This episode will guide you through the simple yet profound act of breathing, the restorative power of sleep, and the importance of starting each day with a heart full of gratitude and hope. It's a conversation that will encourage you to contemplate the strength drawn from our connections with others, and how trust becomes an internal affirmation of our capacity to love, give, and believe in ourselves.Journey with us as we share inspiring stories that highlight the gifts we exchange in life, reminding us that the trust and love we foster will live on, even after our final moments. We discuss the unwavering support of friends during our darkest times and the beauty of trusting in oneself. This episode is an ode to the enduring nature of faith and the tapestry of life it weaves—inviting you to feel inspired by the power of trust, both in the divine and in the myriad interactions that define our existence. Be prepared to be moved and reassured that the trust you cultivate will continue to flourish, even in the hearts of those we leave behind.Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

“Not everything is going to be okay.And our assignment is to carry this truth without yielding to despair, and while tending to the flames of radical hope — the kind that demands our grittiest love and biggest imagination.“How do we hold onto hope when we're faced with the stark truth that not everything in life will turn out okay? Journey with Lora East, as we grapple with this haunting reality and the transformative power of radical hope. In this episode, inspired by the wisdom of Simone Sol, we contemplate the gritty reality of life's trials and the resilient faith required to move through them. You'll discover how to cultivate a trust in God that's as unwavering as it is necessary, even when the path forward is veiled in uncertainty. This isn't just about finding light in the darkness; it's about learning to navigate the shadows with a hope that is audacious and love that is tangible.As we move through our Lenten series, Trustful, we're reminded of the undeniable influence of Jesus Christ's example of gritty love and how His teachings can guide us in fostering trust. By embracing the idea that while not every outcome is within our control—or even within our lifetime—our capacity for hope and love can still flourish. Tune in and be inspired to imagine the boundless possibilities of faith and to employ the greatest version of yourself in the face of life's relentless challenges. Let's embrace this season together, understanding that although everything may not be okay, our trust in God's plan can still shape a future filled with grace and redemption.Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

When the ground beneath you crumbles and your world is riddled with loss, where do you find the strength to navigate the uncharted waters of grief? Nancy Reeves, from Brentwood Presbyterian Church, bravely opens up about her personal story of heartache and the resilience of her spirit.  She shares a poignant reflection that tested her faith and how music that helped pave the path to healing.In an episode that is as touching as it is insightful, Nancy discusses how the unexpected passing of her partner and mother within a short span shook the very foundations of her life. She explains how she found solace in the arts and the steadfast support of her church community. Her story is a profound reminder that amidst the depths of sorrow, there remains a hearth within our souls, a sanctuary where faith and love persist.  Through her testament, we're reminded of the enduring power of faith and the arts in guiding us through the darkest of times.Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

When the weight of the world seems unbearable, where do you turn for strength? Carol Maddon found her answer in an unlikely form—a tattoo, a symbol of her profound personal transformation and renewed faith. Embracing vulnerability, Carol recounts the tumultuous days of the mid-1980s that led her to the brink of despair. Through her gripping narrative, she shares with us the moment an unexpected figure, Scott, stepped into her life. His persistent faith despite his own battles with addiction sparked a light in Carol that ignited a journey toward healing and divine connection.Embark on an intimate exploration of resilience as Carol takes us through her life-altering experiences, from the depths of addiction to the peace she now knows. The conversation unveils the potency of a simple Biblical message found in Micah 6-8, a verse that Carol believes holds the key to resolving humanity's most complex challenges. Her story is a testament to the power of faith, and the peace that comes with surrendering to a higher power. Listeners are invited to discover how embracing resilience and fostering a relationship with God can lead to a most transformative and enriching life.Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

As we usher in the reflective season of Lent, I, Pastor Lora  East, invite you to join me on a journey of spiritual discovery and transformation. Embarking from the solemnity of Ash Wednesday, we'll traverse together through moments of self-examination and repentance, seeking the profound lessons of Psalm 51. The ashes we receive are not just reminders of our mortality, but signals of the rebirth to come through Christ. This episode is an invitation to explore the depths of our faith, as we prepare our hearts for the joyous celebration of Easter, and to contemplate the sustaining role of our beliefs in the face of life's inevitable challenges.In our sacred space at Brentwood Presbyterian Church, we gather not just as a congregation but as a community committed to nurturing resilient faith. Our reflection on adversity isn't just about enduring it, but finding strength and support within our belief and each other. I encourage you to immerse yourself in this conversation, where we aren't just passively listening but actively participating in the growth of our spiritual fortitude. Together, let's emerge from this season with a fortified sense of purpose and invigoration for the path that lies ahead.Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

As the dawn of 2024 breaks upon us, I extend my warmest wishes for a year filled with health, safety, and spiritual depth. This episode is a tender farewell to the old year, and a hopeful embrace of the new, weaving together the timeless story of Epiphany and the journey of the Magi with our modern-day quests for divine guidance. We explore the rich tradition found in the Gospel of Matthew and consider how, like the Magi, we too are called to follow the star in our own lives, seeking out the Christ child with gifts of our own hearts and spirits.This season of reflection reaches its zenith as we share "A Blessing for the Seekers," an evocative poem by Reverend Sarah Speed. Her words serve as a beacon for all who wander in search of wonder, hope, and the presence of God. Together, we uncover the beauty in being seekers, the joy of our discoveries, and the profound simplicity in offering our lives as gifts. Through poetry and prayer, let us journey into 2024 with eyes wide open to the manifestations of God around us, sharing love and light with every step. Join me in celebrating a blessed New Year and a joyous Epiphany.Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

Where do you see the spark of the divine amidst the hum of daily life? Join me, Reverend Laura East, as I guide you through a Christmas reflection that might just reignite your awareness of God's constant presence. In this special holiday installment of Resilient Faith, brought to you with warmth from the Brentwood Presbyterian Church community, we unwrap the joy and hope that faith assures us, even when life whirls in disarray. Embrace the season with a heartwarming poem from Reverend Sarah Speed, "Everywhere and Always Right Here," which we've cherished during Advent and now in the celebration of Christmas Tide.This episode is a tapestry of thoughtful musings, interwoven with the golden threads of God's love that show up in the simplest pleasures—pancake dinners, porch sittings, and the laughter shared with friends. As I share insights and personal stories, I invite you to become part of the conversation and contribute your own lines to this living poem. Reflect on where you've felt God's touch in your own experiences, and together, let's acknowledge the profound beauty of recognizing the sacred in our everyday lives. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast for more enriching discussions on nurturing a resilient faith through all seasons.Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

As the candles of the Advent wreath flicker with hope and love, we find ourselves at the junction of anticipation and celebration; the sacred time when the fourth Sunday of Advent meets the joyous eve of Christ's birth. It's a moment ripe with divine wonder, and on today's episode of Resilient Faith, we invite you into a space of contemplation and jubilation, reflecting on the profound themes of the season. Let your heart be warmed by the special blessing from theologian Kate Bowler, as it echoes through our conversation, illuminating the nativity's promise of new beginnings and God's relentless love.This year's transition to Christmas is a unique blend of tradition and reflection, with Taylor Swift's music harmonizing with Gospel truths, guiding our community worship. It's a powerful union of contemporary artistry and ancient faith, fostering resilience against life's trials. As we bid farewell to 2023 and cast our eyes toward the horizon of a new year, we extend an invitation to join us in embracing the peace and presence that only this time of year can bring. Through stories, songs, and scripture, this episode of Resilient Faith is a sanctuary of fellowship, designed to uplift and inspire as we journey together into the light of Christmas and beyond. Amen.Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

Imagine if we took a sweeping journey across time, tracing the complex dance between individualism and collectivism, dissecting its influence on society, religion, and pop culture. What would we discover about our own identities, our communities, and our shared humanity? That's exactly what we set out to do in this enlightening episode of Resilient Faith, drawing on the wisdom of Archbishop Desmond Tutu's interpretation of Ubuntu and the provocative lyrics of Taylor Swift. Join us as we dissect human history - from biblical tales of the Garden of Eden and the Tower of Babel to the rise of individuality in the Western world. We'll grapple with ideas of Marxism, capitalism, and socialism, and even ponder Darwin's theory of survival of the fittest. As we unravel these threads, we'll also bring in the perspectives of great thinkers like Martin Luther King, Gandhi, and Pope Francis. We promise this intellectual journey will provoke thought, stir conversation, and just might reshape your understanding of our world. So let's dare to dive deep and journey together into this exploration of our individuality and our communal callings.Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

Ever found yourself paralyzed by fear, yet deep down, there's a spark of fearlessness that you long to harness? Well, we're about to dive into a soundtrack of resilience inspired by none other than pop icon Taylor Swift's song, "Fearless." Our journey navigates through the highs and lows of life, where we uncover how fear can often commandeer our emotions, actions, and ultimately, our lives. Yet, we also reveal the power of embracing that fearless, innocent part of ourselves.But what's fearlessness without hope? We delve into the dichotomy of hope - its strength and its susceptibility. By reflecting on moments of unexpected sorrow, like the loss of a loved one, we stress the significance of both vulnerability and support during such times. Our journey of resilient faith is far from a life without fear; it's about clinging to faith and hope even amidst fear and vulnerability. So, are you ready to dance in the storm with us and embrace life in Christ with innocence and fearlessness? Tune in and let's embark on this transformative odyssey together.Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

What if we reframed being 'weird' as a symbol of divine distinction? Get ready to challenge societal norms and embrace your unique imprint of God's image as we delve into a faith-based exploration of diversity and individuality. Drawing inspiration from Taylor Swift's powerful lyrics and her mesmerizing performance at the Eras tour, we revel in the beauty of God's creation, celebrating how our differences enrich the world with a mosaic of God's glory. As we embark on the new year, we invite you to shine brightly as a beacon of divine love in your community, embracing the distinctive color you add to God's diverse canvas.How does walking with Jesus transform us in a way that we stand out, a little 'weird', in the world? Our faith should reshape our values, priorities and relationships - daring us to challenge societal norms. With an intriguing glance at the church's historic alliance with the state, we discuss the recent drift towards societal irrelevance. But let's not view this shift as a loss. Instead, we see it as a golden opportunity for the church to reassess its beliefs and stand firm against societal pressure to conform. So, come and embrace the weird with us, let your faith be the light that guides your path. We look forward to embarking on this thought-provoking journey with you.Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

Ever considered how a pop star's lyrics could intersect with the timeless tales of the Bible? Have you wondered how these narratives can tackle the pressing issues of mental health? Join us as we weave together the story of Jonah and the music of Taylor Swift to unravel the beautiful message of resilience in faith. We discuss how this biblical account echoes in modern struggles and mental health battles, offering hope and understanding to those grappling with these invisible challenges.In a candid conversation, we reflect on the rising mental health concerns and their societal impact, drawing parallels from personal experiences of celebrities like Simone Biles and Matthew Perry. This episode is a journey through the words of Jonah, interpreted through the lens of today's mental health issues. We explore the idea of a God who doesn't view us as problems but supports us in our struggles. Discover the power of resilience and faith in facing life's toughest challenges, and be inspired by the transformative potential of God's gracious and gentle presence in our lives. Through this unique blend of Christian perspectives and pop culture references, experience the scripture anew and find resonance in the struggles and victories of those around us.Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

What if embracing your unique 'weirdness' is the key to experiencing God's glory? Take a leap of faith with us as we draw inspiration from the strength and endearing awkwardness of pop icon, Taylor Swift, to explore a faith journey that's anything but ordinary. We speak straight from our hearts about embracing God's glorious diversity, the beauty of being fearfully and wonderfully made, and the calling to be a beacon of God's light in the world. Together, we ponder on the empowering question- do you let your faith paint you a shade of brilliant 'weird'?Let's take a radical detour from societal norms and discover how adopting the path of Jesus Christ can revolutionize our values, priorities, and relationships. We uncover the resilience of the Jewish people and their authentic faith journey, challenging the church's inadvertent support for conformity. We reflect on the freedom to be ourselves in the church and how it enables us to express our faith uniquely. As we wrap up, we invite a thoughtful conversation with God, as we contemplate on how our faith-tinged 'weirdness' can glorify Him. So, dare to be different, dare to be 'weird'. God's glory awaits!Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

Wondering how Taylor Swift's music can intersect with the Gospel? Join our Pastors Lora East and Dave Carpenter, along with our music director, Nancy Reeves, unpack the surprising and insightful journey of our recent unconventional sermon series - the Gospel According to Taylor Swift. We'll shed light on why this series was chosen, the divine timing around it, and how it sparked deep, meaningful conversations within our worship community. In this faith-filled exploration, we'll also discuss the importance of embracing current pop culture phenomena like Taylor Swift's music to connect with the younger generation and make our services more relatable.With new concepts come controversies, and we'll share how we navigated through these waters. But it's not all about challenges - we'll also look at the positive influence of integrating elements of modern culture into our faith discussions. Using themes from Taylor Swift's music as a springboard, we encourage dialogues that push boundaries, accept varying perspectives, and create space for discomfort - because growth often happens outside our comfort zones. We passionately believe that these conversations, although tough, have the potential to enrich our faith community's understanding and acceptance. So tune in to hear how our church, with its unique qualities, has become a welcoming space for people of all faith backgrounds and perspectives. Don't miss this episode, for it promises to be as enlightening as it is surprising.Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

How does collective grief impact our faith and resilience? In our recent heart-stirring episode of Resilient Faith, Pastor Laura East candidly explores this profound question. She paints a vivid picture of the shared pain and loss we all experience, emphasizing our interconnectedness during times of turmoil. Our conversation journeys into the inspiring pages of the book 'Lives we Actually have 100 Blessings for Imperfect Days' and shares a powerful blessing designed to comfort us during internal and external trials.Pressing onward, you'll find solace as Laura invokes a prayer for God's mercy and peace in the face of overwhelming violence and destruction. Her encouraging words prompt us to lean on our faith community for comfort, reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles. The icing on the cake is the thrilling announcement of a six-week series based on their popular sermon series, 'The Gospel according to Taylor Swift'. We also shed light on the Brentwood Presbyterian Church's online services, allowing you to join our Sunday service virtually. Tune in to this episode and find your strength, motivation, and solace amidst adversity.Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

Have you ever experienced the tranquil peace of a forest at night? Captivated by the melody of rustling leaves, the hooting of owls, and distant wildlife activities, we journey through a serene forest landscape, opening up an auditory treasure trove of nocturnal peace. As city dwellers, we may not all have access to a forest, but we show you how to create your own oasis of tranquility, whether that's in your backyard, on your patio, or just next to an open window. Welcome to Resilient Faith, a podcast dedicated to finding calm in chaos and connecting with God through the quiet moments life offers. This episode, we invite you to listen to the hum of the city as it slows down for the night, to the distant barking of a dog, or the muted sounds of evening traffic. We guide you to breathe deeply, release the demands of the day, and find calm in the quiet. As we journey together in search of resilience and peace in a busy world, we hope you'll join us in exploring the calming effect that nature and the night can bring.Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

Ready to embark on a journey of resilience and faith? What if I told you that in the ebb and flow of life and its trials, there's an unwavering presence that accompanies us? I'm Pastor Lora East and in this touching episode of Resilient Faith, I share an insightful undertaking of my summer experiences, teeming with travels, connections, and introspective moments, all under the compassionate aura of God. A soul-stirring poem 'For Summer's Ending' from the book 'Ash and Starlight' forms the backbone of our discussion, casting a gentle reminder of the sublime constancy of God in our lives.Drawing from my own experiences, we explore the essence of resilience in faith through times of adversity and change. As we transition from the warmth of summer to the crispness of fall, I urge each one of us to offer gratitude for our past while holding onto hope for the future. God's love remains steadfast, even as we oscillate between complacency and sacrifice. Engage in this heartening episode, and let your faith, resilience, and an understanding of God's ceaseless presence be your guiding light.Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

Thank you for tuning in to Brentwood Presbyterian Church's ‘Resilient FaithPodcast', where each week a meditation, a prayer, or quotes and discussion takeplace to ponder and consider….. I hope you can gleam something, even a littlesomething from today's listening… a prayer….. about us, our bodies, thosemiraculous things that hold our lives together with each breath we make, and witheach breath we make.Dear God-Thank you for each breath we take that gives us sustenance.Thank you for each breath that gives us.Thank you for each breath that gives.Thank you for each breath.Thank you.AmenSupport the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

By the seventh day, God had finished his work. On the seventh day he rested from all his work”.These ancient words are reflected in the fourth commandment; Exodus 20:8-10, “Observe the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Work six days and do everything you need to do. But the seventh day is a Sabbath to God, your God . . .” ·       Bring yourself into God's presence. Give thanks for God's great love for you. ·       Pray for the grace to see and understand God's work in your life. As you have listened to this Sabbath topic, what has been your reaction? Have you felt any resistance? Be honest with yourself and God. ·       Review a typical week in your life. Be specific. Do you have a rhythm between work and rest? If not, why not?·       Reflect on all that emerges from your review. What feelings arise? What feels positive? Negative? What possibilities for a personal Sabbath practice do you see?·       Look towards the future. How might you collaborate with Spirit's leading regarding a Sabbath practice? Take these next moments to pray either the Lord's Prayer or a prayer of your own. “There is more to life than merely increasing its speed.”“You are not made for the Sabbath; the Sabbath is made for you.” May we slow down and receive this gift from God. May it be so. Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

Dear God, As I attempt to slow down my breathing with each breath that you've given me, As I try to stop my feet from running with errands and side-trips and dropping off and picking up, As I pause my brain to refresh and take in …slowly… all that I see and hear and is wondrous around me…Be with me this week…. Be with me and all of my messy mistakes, all of my tripping, all of my stumbling, Be with me and all of my wrong words, my wrong turns. Be with me and all of my bad decisions, my poor judgments, my weak moments.  Be with me and all of my losing my patience, misplacing my keys,  mis-judging someone else.Help me to remember all of the good of all of my family,  all of my friends, all of my things I have… Even all of the things I have  - and don't need. Help me to remember that some don't have anything… some seem to have it all… and I have been given what I need. Be with me as I navigate this path called life….. the one that I get tangled up in every once in awhile… the life I get caught up in… all the good, and all the bad.  All the gifts I have been given… and all that I need to be forgiven for. The path that sometimes seems smooth sailing… and other times hits me in the gut like a wretched storm in the deepest and darkest of seas. The path that sometimes sees the best in other people, and  sometimes shows off the worst of me. Be with me as this path called life brings me utterly to my knees when I am in awe of an evening sunset and the glow everlasting  -not on the horizon ,but in my heart…. Be with me on this path called life when shock and sadness literally takes my breath away in pain and in  disbelief.  Be with me on this path called life.. when I pause, and give thanks for all that I have, all that I am, and all that has been given to me.  The bad, the good, the lessons, the losses, the prizes, the tears, and oh of course the laughter… the love, the light, and the grace that somehow seems to always find me…even when I am hiding in the deepest of crevasses; or standing high on a mountaintop reaching for the galaxies above…..however and wherever I am on that path  - surround me. Thank you for this slowing down moment in time… thank you for this slowing down with gratefulness… thank you for this moment in time .. with gratefulness. AMEN Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

Trees have been an important part of my life from my beginnings and during the pandemic they provided a welcomed presence and peace that I had not ever experienced in quite that way. I was raised in the hills of rural Ohio among many different kinds of trees. I have climbed them, eaten their fruit, hiked and walked among them, watched their autumn and spring transformations, enjoyed their dormant beauty in winter, day dreamed under them, inhaled their fragrance, marveled at the grandeur of so many, been thankful for their cool, shady canopy, and am very grateful for their life giving function of “breathing in” carbon and “breathing out” oxygen for the survival and well-being of all living things. Research has shown and continues to reveal just how amazing trees are. Among other things, trees communicate underground through fungi. These play an extremely important role in tree health and survival, and also in the soil biology and chemistry surrounding them. Fungi contribute to a vital support system, a life giving community, for all trees and especially young ones. To know more, and there is so much more, Suzanne Simard relates her lifelong love of and important research on trees in her national bestseller titled, Finding the Mother Tree, Discovering the Wisdom of the Forest. And then there's the Heart Math Institute in Boulder, Colorado, where research on the energetic life of trees is beginning in an effort to explain the feelings of calm and well-being we experience when we spend time in their presence. We come away feeling less stressed and more centered. Researchers at Heart Math want to know why and how this happens. Fascinating stuff!  And then there's the happy fact that trees inspire writers and poets. My favorite tree poem is by Wendell Berry, titled “I Go Among Trees”. It can be found in his poetry collection titled This Day, Collected and New Sabbath Poems. It can also be found online. The Simard book, the Heart Math Institute and the Berry poetry collection are referenced in the show notes.  I want to share the poem with you now and invite you to engage with it in a kind of lectio divina. Though usually associated with scripture, lectio divina can be used with any inspirational writing. So, we will use it with this poem. Let's begin by taking three deep breaths allowing the exhale to be longer than the inhale. Consciously relax your body and bring yourself fully into the present moment.  With the first reading, listen to become acquainted with it. Let the words sink into your being, body, mind and spirit.  In the second reading, become aware of images the words create. What images come to you as you hear the words?  In the third reading, become aware of the feelings and sensations the words and cadence stimulate in you, paying attention to your body's reactions.  As we complete the readings, you might want to write about your experience, the images and feelings that came to you. Allow time to explore the effects of the words as a kind of meditation.   Genesis 2:8a and 9 reads, “Then God planted a garden in Eden... God made all kinds of trees grow from the ground, trees beautiful to look at and good to eat.” This is an understatement given what we are learning about just how important trees are to life on this planet! May we give thanks for the life force they share with us.Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

Close your eyes and find a comfortable position, allowing your body to relax. Take a deep breath in, and as you exhale, let go of any tension or distractions.Today, we will focus on forgiveness and faith—a powerful combination that can bring profound healing and peace to our lives.Begin by reflecting on the concept of forgiveness. Consider any lingering resentments or grievances that weigh upon your heart. Visualize them as heavy burdens, weighing you down with their negative energy.Now, take a moment to acknowledge the pain these burdens have caused you. Understand that forgiveness does not mean condoning the actions or forgetting the hurt. Instead, it is a choice to release the grip these emotions have on you, freeing yourself from their hold.Imagine yourself standing at the edge of a vast ocean. With each breath, feel the waves gently washing away your pain, carrying it out to sea. Allow the cool breeze to soothe your spirit, reminding you that forgiveness is a journey towards inner liberation.As you forgive others, remember to extend that same compassion and understanding to yourself. Recognize that you are human, capable of making mistakes. Embrace self-forgiveness as a transformative act of self-love and growth.Now, let us turn our attention to faith—a profound belief in something greater than ourselves. Faith can provide solace, guidance, and the strength to overcome life's challenges.Picture yourself in a serene garden, surrounded by nature's beauty. In this tranquil space, feel a gentle presence—a guiding force that watches over you. This force is your faith, whatever form it may take—a higher power, the universe, or your inner wisdom.Allow your faith to fill you with a sense of hope and trust. Feel its warmth flowing through your veins, permeating every cell of your being. Let it remind you that you are never alone, that there is always light even in the darkest of times.Now, bring forgiveness and faith together in your heart. As you forgive, trust in the transformative power of forgiveness to heal wounds and mend broken relationships. Let faith be your anchor, reminding you that forgiveness is a courageous act of love and strength.Take a deep breath in, feeling forgiveness and faith infusing your entire being. As you exhale, release any remaining doubts or fears. Embrace the freedom and peace that forgiveness and faith bring.When you're ready, gently open your eyes, carrying the essence of forgiveness and faith with you. May they guide you on your journey of healing, liberation, and inner peace.Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

Enjoy this beautiful lesson in nurturing our bodies and mind. Mary Garbesi once again shares her insight on life. Mary is the Director of Congregational Care at BPC. Blessings and Peace, BPCSupport the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

Summer has begun.                                                                           Winter and Spring have said goodbye for now! Or maybe they are saying…”Look what's next!!  - We'll be back!  But look what we've brought you!  -Enjoy the summer!” Summer to many of us… means simple. Slowing down. A little easier maybe?Relishing the warm days, the nights with the crickets coming out and saying, “Thank you Summer! Over and over and over and over and over and over again.  Gratefully expressing themselves!! The summer floral quilts over the plains and the mountains… in our backyards, on our patios, or maybe just on our little windowsill.  They're enjoying the summer.  Pretty simply.  They grow, they bloom, they search for the sun..they color the soil above from which they are growing. They simply move with the breeze.Simple. Like breathing. Maybe we can use Summer …. To simplify. To make things calmer.  To slow down, To find peace and wisdom, moments of meditation – as well as joyful exhuberations.  Start your day by simply giving thanks that another day is yours. You've been given an amazing gift. Listen for the spoon clanging next to your cup as you stir your coffee or tea in the morning.  It's calling you to find the quiet when it stops…. It's calling you to say,  “Now my job is done… and I bet this is going to taste great.” Breathe.  Begin the day with a simple task…Make your bed…. And when those pillows get plopped just the way you want, and the comforter gets pulled up just  where you like…. Take a moment to remember how amazingly fortunate we are for the warmth, the comfort, the coverings.  For some have only a floor, some have only a sidewalk, some have only a rough patch of ground with some old, and I mean old, padding. Remind yourself the bed is there again for you tonight…. When darkness and quiet settles in and calls us to rest.  And breathing while we are sleeping, restoring us even more than during the day's inhales and exhales.  Over and over and over and over and over again. Breathe.  Water your plants…. You are nourishing them.  Nourish  yourself and your body the next time you take a long drink of water…or sit down for an evening meal…..and take your time to drink that single glass of water… or to savor each bite….all of which sustains you. And then…. Breathe.   Give thanks,  give thanks, that you have nurtured and nourished yourself as well as those plants in your kitchen window.  Encourage yourself to make simple choices this summer…small steps, little chores, minute decisions.  They are all progress.  Enjoy the warm sun.  Enjoy the pounding hard rains at night. Enjoy the cool evenings outside.  And breathe. Meet up with a friend… call an old acquaintance. … and realize and trust that you may be giving them the best gift they've had in a long time.  With each breath, know that you have engaged in a connection, knitting together memories and friendships. Breathe. Meet up with yourself.  In your simple Summer, Take into account all that you have accomplished in life, all that you have accomplished today so far…. And give thanks.  You are breathing. You are receiving daily bread…. In so many ways… the sunrise, the clouds breaking away to reveal  blue skies, the small tasks that your body allows you to perform, the chores that might seem mundane, the exhilarating experiences that leave you in awe and wonder .. and you know?... even breathless. So breathe.. inhale.. exhale… Breathe it all in....Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

A great practice to help us realize when we say yes or no. Saying yes is good, but saying NO is also good and important. Let us review our day with gratitude and joy for options of yes and no. Blessings and Peace.Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

In honor of our Podcast and 3 full years of success bringing you meditation, prayers and spiritual lessons, enjoy our most popular podcast, Resilient Faith! Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

Dear God,In the morning…… let me be thankful for the floor on which I place my feet. Strong,dry, solid…maybe even dirty… but waiting for me to stand … and see the day aheadof me. Let me give thanks for the sun rising and giving warmth to this Earth,whether we see it in the glistening of the dew on the leaves and grasses that rinsethemselves with moisture and give a sip of water to even the smallest of insects, orwhether it's shrouded in gray cloud or cotton-like fog, or whether it's smugly sittingabove the rain drops and rain clouds…giving off it's radiant sunlight beamssomewhere else. Let me rest assured in the morning… that this day has begun, and Iam in it.In the mid-day…… Let me give thanks for the energy I have been given, whether it isto simply trudge through my mail and sort and file, or to sit and listen long enoughfor the birds outside to welcome me into their world on Earth, let me give thanks forthe rest from last evening's darkness to get through these past few hours.. ….Whether they were restful --- or restless. …let me give thanks for even the mostmindless events, the important tasks, those small moments where I foundsomething to laugh at, feelings of love, handfuls of thoughtfulness…all that havecome my way … ….. For pausing, for taking deep breaths, for each heartbeat. Forfood that sustains me throughout this day that I'm experiencing… whether it's agrand meal hot and steaming to sustain me throughout the afternoon, or a few bitesof leftovers from last night's goodness, enjoyed again thoroughly, made especiallyfor me, or made by myself… just the way I like it. Let me give thanks for all that I amexperiencing while the sun is directly over me…and seems to be saying.. the day isstill here for you.In the evening's darkest….. let me have the strength to rest and calm my body and allit's hard-working parts, let me enjoy the dark and the noises slowly quietingdown….let me truly appreciate it wrapping around me gently, while it cloaks me in ablanket of comfort and peace. Let me allow the sun hiding away another night, forme to feel like it's for my benefit…stepping out for a few hours, and reassuring methat it will rise again…. to encourage me to stop, to pause, and to realize I was givenanother day to begin with just this very morning a few hours ago…. Whether it wasboring, tedious, exhausting, troubling, exhilarating, exciting, or thrilling withmoments of awe and amazing disbelief. And though I may struggle with concerningthoughts, with pain, with fear or with worry, let me know in my heart and in mymind that rejuvenation comes with quiet, rejuvenation comes with rest,rejuvenation comes with sleep, comes with gratefulness, comes with the newmorning's light waiting for me. …. To place my grateful feet on the strong and dryand solid floor again…and greet a new day with grace and mercy, and thankfulness.AMENBetsy Baker NewellSupport the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

I have been thinking about awe and wonder, so I have become curious and spent some time reflecting on and exploring their meaning and experience in my life.  I found that awe has become an area of interest in the field of psychology and research. Dacher Keltner, a psychologist at the University of California at Berkeley, has researched the subject and reported his findings in his recent book, titled Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Life. He defines awe as “the feeling of being in the presence of something vast that transcends your current understanding of the world”. Keltner continues, saying that it is about vastness, but it's really simple and uncomplicated. To inspire awe does not have to be dramatic to instill a feeling of awe. It comes from what Keltner calls “perceived vastness”. He writes that awe is critical for our well-being and his research suggests that it has big health benefits, such as a calming effect on the nervous system. Awe creates a different response in us than does either joy, happiness or love. For more on this topic: https://www.nytimes.com/2023/01/03/well/live/awe-wonder-dacher-keltner.htmlThe Psalmist in Psalm 33:8 says, “Let all the earth fear the Lord (In my words, “Let all the earth have a healthy reverence and respect for God's power and creative nature”); let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him!” My own interest and reflections on awe have come with the advent of spring. The hummingbird and her nest with two tiny eggs in the tree on my patio. The super bloom we are experiencing here in California. Nature is awe inspiring for me in all its beauty and grandeur. Its incredible diversity that informs us of the importance of diversity in every aspect of life, our life together as human beings and with all species. More reflection brings more examples. Sunsets, moonrise, the  night sky and its canopy of stars, the ocean and its treasures. Art, music, dance and ways the human body can move. Great thinkers, past and present. Ancient ruins, Stonehenge, the pyramids. Skyscrapers and cathedrals such as Chartres, Notre Dame. There's so much that can be awe-inspiring! The incredibly good in people, how we help and care for one another, sacrifice and share, endure and find hope in the midst of suffering. I hope this has stimulated your own thinking around what is awe inspiring for you!  Take some time to reflect. Bring yourself into God's presence. Give thanks for God's great love for you. Pray for the grace to see and understand how God is acting in your life, Review your day — recall specific moments and your feelings. Reflect on what you did, said, or thought and felt in all the instances of your day.  How did you experience God during your day especially around awe?Look toward tomorrow — think of how you might collaborate more effectively with Spirit. Poet of awe, by Mary OliverHello, sun in my face.Hello, you who made the morningand spread it over the fieldsand into the faces of the tulipsand the nodding morning glories,and into the windows of, even, themiserable and the crotchety.Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

Join Lora today as we talk about finding happiness and trusting God to know what we need. Have faith...have patience...trust in the Lord!Luke 12:22-31 22 Then, turning to his disciples, Jesus said, “That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food to eat or enough clothes to wear. 23 For life is more than food, and your body more than clothing. 24 Look at the ravens. They don't plant or harvest or store food in barns, for God feeds them. And you are far more valuable to him than any birds! 25 Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? 26 And if worry can't accomplish a little thing like that, what's the use of worrying over bigger things?27 “Look at the lilies and how they grow. They don't work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. 28 And if God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith?29 “And don't be concerned about what to eat and what to drink. Don't worry about such things. 30 These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers all over the world, but your Father already knows your needs. 31 Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and he will give you everything you need.Happiness, by Jane KenyonThere's just no accounting for happiness,or the way it turns up like a prodigalwho comes back to the dust at your feethaving squandered a fortune far away.And how can you not forgive?You make a feast in honor of whatwas lost, and take from its place the finestgarment, which you saved for an occasionyou could not imagine, and you weep night and dayto know that you were not abandoned,that happiness saved its most extreme formfor you alone.No, happiness is the uncle you neverknew about, who flies a single-engine planeonto the grassy landing strip, hitchhikesinto town, and inquires at every dooruntil he finds you asleep midafternoonas you so often are during the unmercifulhours of your despair.It comes to the monk in his cell.It comes to the woman sweeping the streetwith a birch broom, to the childwhose mother has passed out from drink.It comes to the lover, to the dog chewinga sock, to the pusher, to the basketmaker,and to the clerk stacking cans of carrotsin the night.It even comes to the boulderin the perpetual shade of pine barrens,to rain falling on the open sea,to the wineglass, weary of holding wine.Please join us in person on Sunday mornings at 8am and 10:30am (also online). Peace and love to you all,BPCSupport the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

Prayers to uplift us and bring us meditation time to rejoice and appreciate all that God has given us. Join us this week as our birthday girl. Betsy Newell, joins us a the guest leader of this podcast meditation. Use this time to pray and reflect. Amen!Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

Daily Prayer: Merciful God, You see deep into our hearts and know us better than we know ourselves. Forgive us, we pray. For the times we turn away from Your word, and forget of your grace,remind us that You are the Lord our God, and our eternal father and guide. For our impulses of anger, jealousy, guilt or sadness, grant us Your healing peace. For our resistance to forgiveness, abundance and mercy, inspire us with Your compassionate love.Welcome now the abundant grace of God: With Jesus, our sins are forgiven. And let God's love comfort and heal our soul.O God, so often we take you for granted. We take for granted that you will answer our prayers, that you will heal us and make us whole. Give us faith to see you in everything and everyone around us, so that we may be truly grateful. In Christ's name we pray.Amen and AmenSupport the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

If God called your name today, what would be the call, the charge, the ask? Pray and meditate on how you would answer and what you are willing to do....for God? We all have callings throughout our life and our answer can change things. Have you been called? Do you know a time that you have been asked to do something that seems questionable? Acts 9:1-20 The Damascus Road: Saul Converted9 Then Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest 2 and asked letters from him to the synagogues of Damascus, so that if he found any who were of the Way, whether men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem.3 As he journeyed he came near Damascus, and suddenly a light shone around him from heaven. 4 Then he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?”5 And he said, “Who are You, Lord?”Then the Lord said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. [a]It is hard for you to kick against the goads.”6 So he, trembling and astonished, said, “Lord, what do You want me to do?”Then the Lord said to him, “Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”7 And the men who journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice but seeing no one. 8 Then Saul arose from the ground, and when his eyes were opened he saw no one. But they led him by the hand and brought himinto Damascus. 9 And he was three days without sight, and neither ate nor drank.Ananias Baptizes Saul10 Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and to him the Lord said in a vision, “Ananias.”And he said, “Here I am, Lord.”11 So the Lord said to him, “Arise and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for one called Saul of Tarsus, for behold, he is praying. 12 And in a vision he has seen a man named Ananias coming in and putting his hand on him, so that he might receive his sight.”13 Then Ananias answered, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much [b]harm he has done to Your saints in Jerusalem. 14 And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on Your name.”15 But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children[c] of Israel. 16 For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name's sake.”17 And Ananias went his way and entered the house; and laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord [d]Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you came, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” 18 Immediately there fell from his eyes somethinglike scales, and he received his sight at once; and he arose and was baptized.19 So when he had received food, he was strengthened. Then Saul spent some days with the disciples at Damascus.Saul Preaches Christ20 Immediately he preached [e]the Christ in Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

Ecclesiastes 3:4A time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance. When we encounter setbacks, disappointments and failures in life; they are inevitable. This is the price we pay for our willingness to take risks, and to follow our dreams. We must never lose faith. God stands ready to protect us. We must call on HIM in prayer and meditation. Tell Him what is in your heart and ask for help and protection. He will answer - in his own time. While we wait for God's plan to unfold, and for his healing to restore us, let us be comforted in the knowledge that HE can overcome any obstacle! Our meditation today is in 3 parts:1) List the dark places, the disappointments, not to labor on them but to let them go. 2) Go to God and ask for what is in your heart, Ask for protection. 3) Then finally moments of gratitude. Think of the many ways your are blessed. Sit and listen to God. Dear Lord, even when I am afraid, find me the courage to try. Remind me that with you by my side, I have nothing to fear. Today, I will live courageously as I place my faith in you. Amen.Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

Easter celebration and resurrection through the lens of imaginative prayer. We will visualize the story and immerse in the sights sounds and feelings of the story.  Place yourself in the scene. Use your imagination.Pray as you are able.God will speak to you. Christ is Risen. He is Risen Indeed!Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

We are in the last days of Lent; Palm Sunday marked the beginning of Holy Week. For Jesus it must have been a week of very mixed and intense feelings; the entry into Jerusalem seemed to be a triumph.  Jesus observed Passover with his disciples and then, the Garden of Gethsemane; prayers for deliverance, his betrayal, arrest, incarceration, torture. Friday, the crucifixion. Jesus was surrounded by people who were in the process of grieving his death, and in denial of it. He was also surrounded by people who were plotting against him and those who were totally oblivious to what was about to happen. He experienced abandonment, desertion, and denial by his friends.  In Isaiah 53:3, the prophet writes, “He was despised and rejected . . ., a man of suffering, and familiar with pain.Like one from whom people hide their faces . . . Luke 19:41 reads, “As he came near and saw the city, [Jesus] wept over it.” In John 11:33, 35, “When Jesus saw [Mary] weeping, and the Jews who came with her also weeping, he was greatly disturbed in spirit and deeply moved. Jesus wept.” As Christians we come to this week after five weeks of Lenten reflection and self-examination. We knew where all this would take us and here we are.  Jesus' grief and suffering needs to affect us. His ability to suffer and grieve with others is a model for us. He also models grieving his own death.  At his crucifixion, Mary, his mother, demonstrates her love and care by remaining with him through the agony of his death. She had support from others as she kept vigil.Grief is a difficult emotion, especially when we experience the death of people we love. However, we also grieve the people we have had difficulty with in our lives, especially if we yearned for a closer, more loving relationship and never had it. Most of us resist grieving and are uncomfortable observing it in others. It's a temptation to avoid and deny and quickly move on from whatever makes us feel sad and vulnerable. We want to get back to “normal”. The truth is, once we experience a loss of any kind, life is altered even if ever so slightly. Things are never exactly the same.  We let go of unfulfilled dreams and plans throughout life.  There is much to grieve in life, just as there is much to celebrate. Coming out of the pandemic, we must realize all we have lost. We need to experience collective grief with our fellow human beings. Learning to grieve well is emotionally, spiritually and even physically beneficial. Unprocessed grief does not go away. It will make itself known in some way at some time.  We need to express our feelings freely without censoring them. Prayer and meditation are also beneficial. Opening to God's love and care while being totally honest is healing.This week, we explore our relationship with grief.  ·       Place yourself in God's presence. Give thanks for God's great love for you. ·       Pray for the grace to understand how God is acting in your life. ·       Review your day — recall specific moments and your feelings at the time. ·       Reflect on what you did, said, or thought in those instances. Were you drawing closer to God, or further away? ·       Look toward tomorrow — think of how you might collaborate more effectively with Spirit. Be specific.Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

In Luke 18:9-14, we read the parable of the two men who went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. Verse 9 states that Jesus told this parable “To some who were confident of their own righteousness and who looked down on everybody else.” The parable is among the many passages in the Bible that address humility which is not a popular topic these days. This ancient virtue clashes with current cultural values of self-worth and self-realization and accompanying narcissism. A Christian view of humility over the centuries has not always offered what would be seen today as an emotionally healthy attitude toward the self or way of functioning in the world. Being weak and self-effacing, demonstrating a low opinion of oneself, having low self-esteem and lack of self-confidence are not appealing to our modern sensibilities. Foster sites a document titled “The Litany of Humility”, written in the early 20th century, much of which is disturbing to me and evokes ambivalence in Foster! By contrast, we are coming to realize that current narcissistic attitudes and behaviors of specialness, entitlement and individualism so prevalent in our culture are not healthy. Self-aggrandizement in any form does not fit with a humble way of being. We are realizing that much of our present societal, cultural and environmental problems stem from our lack of humility, from our unwillingness to share the spotlight, to live cooperatively in community and to honor and cherish the natural world and its wisdom. So what is humility? It's the ability to view yourself accurately as an individual with talents as well as flaws while being void of arrogance and low self-esteem. This is being really honest with oneself. We accept and are comfortable with who we are, as we are. We don't see ourselves as better than or less than anyone or anything else. We are not to think less of ourselves, we are to think of ourselves less. Humility makes us less self-centered. We assess ourselves honestly and accurately, not denying the good and beautiful people we are, nor denying our mistakes, flaws and weaknesses. We are openly happy for and compliment others for their accomplishments. We are able to receive compliments graciously, without deflecting or downplaying. We are all beloved children of God, “fearfully and wonderfully” made. We are all unique, unrepeatable and loved as we are. We need not deny or downplay our gifts nor inflate or exaggerate them in order to be enough and acceptable. We know our place in the universe. We are a part of creation, just like all other creatures and living things. Humility is an ongoing practice of self-awareness and vigilance. ·       Place yourself in God's presence. Give thanks for God's great love for you. ·       Pray for the grace to understand how God is acting in your life. ·       Review your day — recall specific moments and your feelings at the time. ·       Reflect on what you did, said, or thought in those instances. Were you drawing closer to God, or further away? ·       Look toward tomorrow — think of how you might collaborate more effectively with Spirit. Be specific. Be strong enough to learn humility. Be courageous enough to learn humility and be compassionate enough to learn humility.Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

In Mark 12:28-31, Jesus is approached by a teacher of the law who asks Jesus which of all the commandments is the most important. Jesus answers him with this. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' 31 The second is this: Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these.” In this devotional we will focus on verse 31, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself'. Much has been preached and written about loving one's neighbor, but less on loving oneself.  It's a very clear directive from scripture that we are to love ourselves and that love of neighbor is directly connected to love of self. In the Greek translation, the love of neighbor and the love of self are connected with a word which is like an equal sign. Love of neighbor equals love of self. We hear, “Take care” as people say good-bye to one another. Or a friend says to you when you are being hard on yourself, “Cut yourself some slack!” or “Give yourself a break!”, “Be easy on yourself” or “Don't be so hard on yourself”.  But what is true love of self? Is it merely self-care as we have come to know it from modern advertising? Is it indulging ourselves in the newest, shiniest thing, the novel experience, the new situation or person that promises to make us happy? We often look for love in the externals which is ultimately unfulfilling and affects the quality of our love of self and, therefore, our love of others.  In the past, psychology has offered us such terms as self-esteem and self-confidence to describe love of self. We deserve compassion just because we are human. We can learn self-compassion. It's a practice. So when we notice a mistake, a flaw or imperfection in ourselves, we offer ourselves kindness, not judgement. We are warm and understanding towards ourselves as we encounter our inevitable mistakes and failures. Next, we accept our human-ness and, therefore, the truth of our imperfection. We are just like other human beings. This reminder helps us feel less alone in our pain and suffering. And finally, being mindful of our negative thoughts and self-talk in a non-judgmental way is important so as not to be swept away by or over-identified with them. This practice of mindful self-compassion is beneficial by making us more resilient, less ruminative and better able to acknowledge our mistakes. It's also an effective motivator, much more so than being harsh and judgmental of ourselves. As we practice the Daily Examen this week, we will focus on self-compassion.Let's begin: ·       Place yourself in God's presence. Give thanks for God's great love for you. Take a moment to focus on the deep and limitless compassion that God has for you.·       Pray for the grace to understand how God is acting in your life. Grace to recognize where you feel God's compassion towards you. ·       Review your day — recall specific moments and your feelings at the time. As you reflect, recall when you were being hard on yourself, critical and judgmental. ·       Reflect on what you did, said, or thought in those instances.  Were you drawing closer to God, or further away? ·       Look toward tomorrow — think of how you might collaborate more effectively with Spirit. Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

This week, we tackle the challenge of holding on and letting go.  Ecclesiastes 3:1, 6b (MSG)There's an opportune time to do things, a right time for everything on the earth … A right time to hold on and another to let go.” Ecclesiastes 3:1, 6b (MSG) Deuteronomy 30:15, 16a NIV“See, I have placed before you today life and happiness, and death and adversity, in that I am commanding you today to love the Lord your God, to walk in His ways and to keep His commandments, His statutes, and His judgments, so that you may live… Deuteronomy 30:15, 16a NIV“Life is a balance of holding on and letting go”. Finding that balance is a lifelong challenge.  Another phrase you have probably heard and possibly repeated to yourself or others is, “Let go and let God.” Letting go is, however, easier said than done! It's easier to hold on, whether it's to an unfulfilled dream, a long held grudge, hurt feelings, rejection, trauma, old beliefs, old ways of living, outgrown behaviors, long held attitudes that no longer serve us, relationships we have outgrown or are toxic. What we hold onto and the associated feelings are obstacles to our mental, physical and spiritual well-being. They may have served us well in the past, when as children we were dependent on others for our survival and had to adapt. As young adults we work to create and develop our lives according to the norms of family and society. As Christians, we are called to discern what is offering us “life” and what is offering us “death” in these times and at this age and stage of our lives.We often want to avoid it as too challenging, too scary, too hard, too disruptive. It will require too much of us, our time, effort, resources, etc.  Or, if we're really honest with ourselves, we may like holding on. It somehow feels “good” to hold onto it, whatever it is. We kid ourselves into believing that holding on really isn't that bad for us. Or, we'll deal with it later. We must be easy on ourselves as we seek change. Letting go, then, can bring us face to face with the issue of forgiveness. Forgiveness requires a lot of us.  It's a process that takes time, patience and love. Forgiveness is a deliberate and intentional choice. It's an act of the will and takes commitment. It requires a change of attitude; a reframing of the situation, an acceptance of what is and knowing that forgiveness is not about forgetting. It takes great faith, believing that God will empower us to forgive. To raise our awareness of letting go and holding on, we turn to our Lenten spiritual practice of the Daily Examen. Place yourself in God's presence. Give thanks for God's great love for you. Pray for the grace to understand how God is acting in your life. Review your day — recall specific moments and your feelings at the time. Reflect on what you did, said, or thought in those instances. Were you drawing closer to God, or further away? TLook toward tomorrow — think of how you might collaborate more effectively with Spirit. Be specific.  Conclude with The Lord's Prayer or a prayer of your own.Podcast reference/referral on "Letting Go"https://katebowler.com/podcasts/richard-rohr-learning-to-hold-on-learning-to-let-go/Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

Psalm 139:14 “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful; I know that full well.” You may also want to read Luke 12:22-34. What is enough?  Has that question ever occurred to you? Do you struggle with the question of your being enough? Smart enough, pretty/handsome enough, talented enough, caring enough, generous enough? A good enough friend, parent, spouse, coworker, citizen? Then there is the question, do I have enough? Enough of the things that help me feel that I am enough, that I can compete with others as I feel I need to, that I am acceptable and belong. Do I need the latest, the best, one more thing that will surely fulfill me? And finally, do I do enough? Am I contributing enough, am I involved enough, do I work hard enough? Each of these lists can be endless.  If any of these questions have nagged at you in that deep place you would prefer not to acknowledge, you are not alone. I believe that most, if not all of us, struggle with this very basic sense of not being, doing or having enough. I have heard this in my work as a therapist and spiritual director. I have struggled with it in my own life. Deep down inside, we question if we measure up. Does who we are, what we have and what we do rise to the standards that have been created and set by a demanding and consumer oriented society? A society that continually seeks to show us where we fall short and need to be, do and have more to be accepted, loved, safe and secure. We have been sold the belief that we can achieve perfection and “have it all”. The result is exhaustion and frustration. Enough is forever an elusive goal.  This affects how we are present to God, others and ourselves, and how we respond to the call of the Gospel to live simply, love greatly and care for our world with justice, equity and sustainability. Minister, author and therapist, Wayne Muller opens the first chapter of his book “a life of being, having and doing enough”, with the statement “We have forgotten what enough feels like.” The remainder of the book develops this and explains how we can become more balanced as we practice what truly matters in life.  As you begin this week's Examen, become aware of your body and take three deep breaths to relax, making each exhale longer than each inhale. ·       Place yourself in God's presence. How does it feel to come into God's presence? Give thanks for God's great love for you. Is this great love enough for you? If so, how? If not, why?·       Pray for the grace to understand how God is acting in your life. ·       Review your day — recall specific moments and your feelings at the time. When were you aware of “not enough” feelings; feelings of scarcity and lack? When did you feel the opposite? A sense of enough? How did that feel? Stay with that feeling, savor it.·       Reflect on what you did, said, or thought in those instances. How did your sense of enoughness or lack thereof affect what you said, did and thought? Were you drawing closer to God, or further away? When did you feel close to God or far away from God?·       Look toward tomorrow — think of how you might collaborate more effectively with Spirit. Be specific. How might you become more content with what is enough in your life? Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart . . .” Proverbs 3:5a As we begin our Lenten journey, it seems appropriate to explore the topic of trust, trust in God, trust in ourselves and trust in others. Trust influences our experience of life and is fundamental to our sense of safety and security in the world. It is foundational to our psychological and spiritual development from birth through adulthood. The well-known psychologist, Erik Erikson, developed one of the most popular and influential theories of human psychosocial development. The first stage he describes is Trust vs. Mistrust which begins at birth and extends to about 18 months. During this period, the child forms a view of whether or not the world is a safe and loving place. According to Erikson this is the most important stage since it shapes the child's world view and influences the personality she/he develops. James Fowler, a theologian and professor at Emory University, developed the Stages of Faith in which he describes a process of human faith development. His first stage, Stage 0 extends from birth to 2 years. He calls this stage Undifferentiated Faith. It is similar to Erikson's first stage in that this is the period when a child learns about the safety and security of his/her environment. If the child experiences consistent nurture and care, then she/he develops a sense of trust and safety in the universe and the divine. If neglect, hurt and abuse are experienced, then mistrust in the divine and the universe develops.If we are to engage in the process of reflection and self-examination that we are called to during Lent, then trust in that process is important. Trust that we will be safe embarking on such a journey; that God will be with us and we won't be challenged with more than we can handle.No one is completely trusting or totally mistrusting. We are all somewhere on a trust continuum. As we are willing to be open to where we are on that continuum and explore our life experiences that have landed us there, we have the opportunity to change and grow.As you move through each of the five steps, consider this issue of trust and your relationship with it. Try to practice it as many times as possible this week.·       Place yourself in God's presence. How does it feel to place yourself in God's presence?  Give thanks for God's great love for you. Do you truly believe and trust God's great love for you?·       Pray for the grace to understand how God is acting in your life. Do you trust that God will give you grace to understand God's action in your life?·       Review your day — recall specific moments and your feelings at the time. What moments during the day brought feelings of trust or mistrust?·       Reflect on what you did, said, or thought in those instances. Were you drawing closer to God, or further away? How did trust or mistrust influence what you said, did and thought and your sense of being close to or further away from God?·       Look toward tomorrow — think of how you might collaborate more effectively with Spirit. Be specific.How would you like to be different in the coming day? How might you practice greater trust? Conclude with The Lord's Prayer or your own prayer around trust. Ask for clarity and guidance where you need it. Ask for wisdom and courage where you need it.Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

Weekly Lenten Devotional Ash Wednesday 2023 You may wish to light a candle as you begin this Ash Wednesday reflection. May its light illumine your Lenten days.  Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts. Ps. 139:23“. . .we come from dust and return to dust” is a paraphrase of the familiar Ash Wednesday pronouncement from Ecclesiastes 3:20 as we receive the imposition of the ashes on our foreheads. Socrates is credited with saying “The unexamined life is not worth living”.  So what we do with the “in between” time of dust to dust is important. Lent calls us to reflection and self-examination; to give some thought and prayer to our “in between” life. We take up the Inward Journey in order to continue the Outward Journey with renewed energy and insight. Doing Lent in this way may not be easy or appealing, but it is healthy both spiritually and psychologically. Undertaking this work together is helpful and supportive. Therefore, the church, locally and globally, embarks on the Lenten journey at the same time. We are not alone in this deep work and Spirit is with us throughout. Each week we will reflect on a topic, explore it and be as honest as possible with ourselves and God. We will use a practice known as the Daily Examen originated by St. Ignatius Loyola as the lens through which we will explore our experience of the week's topic. Below is a version of the Examen. This link https://www.xavier.edu/jesuitresource/jesuit-a-z/terms-e/daily-examen offers a more detailed version. The Examen is practiced as a prayerful review of your day and is best done in the evening. Before each practice time, take a moment to settle into your body, relax and take three deep breaths allowing each exhale to be longer than each inhale. Below is the 5 step process.·       Place yourself in God's presence. Give thanks for God's great love for you. ·       Pray for the grace to understand how God is acting in your life. ·       Review your day — recall specific moments and your feelings at the time.·       Reflect on what you did, said, or thought in those instances. Were you drawing closer to God, or further away? ·       Look toward tomorrow — think of how you might collaborate more effectively with Spirit. Be specific. Conclude with The Lord's Prayer or a prayer of your own. “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts.” In Richard Foster's book, Prayers from the Heart, he offers this prayer in response to the scripture.  “God, I pray these words of the psalmist with great hesitation. They lay things so bare. They allow no room for negotiation or compromise. I fear the scrutiny. I dread the probe. I resist the intrusion. I know that you are all love and so I am entering nothing more than your scrutiny of love. And yet . . . No! I refuse to allow my fear to keep me from your love.”May it be so.Mary GarbesiDirector of Congregational CareSupport the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

The Giving Spirit provides both direct tangible aid and educates communities on how workable solutions informed by direct community engagement, powerful data, and our common humanity can alleviate and ultimately end homelessness leading the “first mile” of service to our unhoused. The first mile of care provides immediate, tangible aid to the unhoused by procuring, assembling, and directly serving them diverse and robust “survival kits” containing dozens of essential life-sustaining items.  The first mile of learning informs, engages, and educates individuals, businesses and communities through curated platforms on the human face of homelessness, myths and realities surrounding the unhoused. With nearly 25 years of service, The Giving Spirit has touched over 90,000 unhoused lives and educated thousands in the broader Los Angeles community by putting faces and stories to unsheltered community members. About our guest, Tim:Tim Ingram, Treasurer and Operations Director: tim@thegivingspirit.orgTim is an attorney in Los Angeles. After serving on TGS' Board for 10 years, Tim currently serves as Treasurer and Operations Director. After serving more than a decade in a variety of roles as a volunteer, Tim became the Operations Director for The Giving Spirit in 2015, where he oversees the day-to-day management needs of the organization as well as providing reports and strategic advice to CEO Tom Bagamane, team members and the Board. Tim also serves on The Giving Spirit's Development Committee in a variety of capacities, including coordinating grant proposals. Tim also uses his background to guide The Giving Spirit's compliance with local, state and federal regulatory requirements. Tim received a BA in Economics from Washington and Lee University and a J.D., from George Mason University School of Law.How to contact TGS:https://www.thegivingspirit.org/Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

Over forty years ago, Gayla Cooper felt reluctant to spend even one day ministering to children in a Tijuana orphanage.  However, after meeting a group of children from a Mexican orphanage, Gayla's heart was touched so deeply that she decided to pack her bags and move to Mexico to work in the orphanage full-time.Meanwhile, Scott Congdon traveled to the very same orphanage with a community service group from his college.  The children had such a profound impact on Scott, that when he returned home, he began collecting food and clothing for the children, returning to deliver the collected items.Together, Scott and Gayla soon discovered that they shared the same dream of ministering alongside the poor in Mexico.  In March of 1980, Scott and Gayla founded Amor Ministries.  That fall, they recruited their first ministry group to participate in a building project at a Tecate orphanage.Scott and Gayla were married a year later and four more missions teams traveled to Mexico with Amor.  Today, the ministry continues to live out the Congdon's initial calling and builds homes alongside families each day.What we believe in:#1 – We love Jesus.In all things we look to Jesus. We work because of him and we want our work to point to him.#2 – We are diverse.The churches we serve are diverse and our staff reflects that diversity. You are guaranteed to find someone here who thinks differently than you about just about anything theological, political, or even where the best tacos are. Iron sharpens iron and, in the end, see #1.#3 – We have healthy conflict.We are learners, which means that we are open to being better in all things which means we need to be able to discover with our coworkers how we can be better. Even when we seek to be better, it doesn't always feel good to hear how to be better, so we always refer back to #1.#4 – We eat together.Any Christian community worth its salt breaks bread together. It breaks down barriers and creates opportunities for deeper relationships. When we meet, more often than not, we eat together. Sometimes we even compete in our annual Chili Cookoff!#5 – We laugh.Ministry is fun. We serve a savior whose first miracle was turning water into wine at a party. We are at a nexus point of people's lives being transformed. Ministry is also hard which is why we make sure we laugh a lot.#6 – We are servants.The words, “That's not my responsibility,” don't exist with us. We go the extra mile with our groups, our donors, our pastors, and our teammates which frequently takes us outside of an eight-to-five schedule.#7 – We constantly seek God.We are structured like a business but we spend time listening to what God is saying to us as part of the body of Christ. When closeness and proximity to God is your top priority (see #1), there's no more exciting place to be than to be listening.How to volunteer, donate and help:https://amor.org/Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

Westside Food Bank (WSFB) was founded in 1981 by the Westside Ecumenical Council, when several Westside social service agencies worked together to create a food bank warehouse that could deal with food purchases and collections on a larger scale than any single direct service agency could.Now, we provide nutritious food for more than 112,000 households in need and their families with the help of well over 55 member agencies throughout our service area. We collaborate with a host of community coalitions and multi-sector partners to strengthen the food assistance network on a large scale.How to volunteer and learn more:https://www.wsfb.org/About Genevieve Riutort and WSFB:Genevieve brings more than 20 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising and management to her role as Westside Food bank's leader. Her personal experience as a single woman of color raising a family amidst food and housing insecurity informs her hunger relief and anti-poverty work. Born and raised in Bronx, NY, as a child Genevieve benefited from numerous social service programs including food assistance, childcare, summer camp, performing arts, and scholarship programs. Years later, as a single mother of three in the midst of a divorce, Genevieve relied on government safety net programs such as SNAP (formerly known as food stamps) WIC, state subsidized healthcare, and subsidized housing. It was getting a job at Westside Food Bank in 2004 that put her on the path out of poverty and being able to support her family.Genevieve is passionate about bringing innovative approaches to difficult problems and collaborating for community impact. She loves sharing her expertise in nonprofit management, fundraising, communications and media relations to lift others up and expand the collective impact of the social good sector. Over her more than 20-year career in the nonprofit world she has provided education on issues and impact through workshops and presentations, by facilitating meetings and roundtables, organizing conferences and convenings, and providing coaching and mentoring.She has worked at Westside Food Bank since 2004, previously serving as Deputy Director and Chief Development Officer. WSFB's income has more than tripled during her tenure with strong support from private foundations and individuals.She plays a key role on WSFB's Strategic Planning Committee and works on updating systems, revising policies, staff engagement, emergency preparedness and disaster planning. She facilitates communication and coordination between multiple food service providers in West Los Angeles County working with the Westside Coalition on Housing, Hunger and Health as well as Westside Food Bank's member agencies.Genevieve has represented Westside Food Bank in hundreds of media appearances including on-air interviews for radio and television programs, podcasts, webinars, live talks, and newspaper and magazine articles. She was the host and producer of the City TV Santa Monica talk show Nonprofit Profiles  for 3 seasons where she interviewed nonprofit leaders, staff, volunteers, and clients and has produced numerous promotional videos and PSAs.Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

In this episode, you will learn about our Mission Partner, MBF and how Spiritual healing is necessary in medical healing of the body. Our guest is Patrick Coughlin, VP of Partner Engagement. He will share the reason behind the mission and how and why MBF started. About Patrick:Patrick Coughlin was called to Medical Benevolence Foundation (MBF) in May of 2018. As Vice President of Partner Engagement, Patrick is responsible for setting and implementing strategy to connect U.S. partners with overseas partners. He leads an MBF team, which spans coast to coast, engaging churches, foundations, families, and individuals in medical ministry in developing countries.Patrick's primary functions include communicating the needs, goals, and successes of partners in under-resourced countries, securing support from U.S. partners to meet those needs, leading mission trips, and helping grow the MBF organization.With strong leadership skills in strategic planning, team building, and communication, Patrick was chief executive officer of five chambers of commerce and founded 4ward consulting before joining MBF. His experience in building communities taught him the need to positively impact several foundational issues at once, to build capacity, and to enable populations to seize opportunities. Building sustainable medical ministries through MBF requires the same approach.Patrick, his wife Melanie, and daughter Isabella share their blessings by finding opportunities to serve as the hands of Christ by sponsoring a child in Mali, participating in their church's sponsorship of a class in Haiti, supporting local churches' mission events which serve the poor and disadvantaged, contributing to ministries which fight the sexual abuse, exploitation, and trafficking of teen girls, and of course, supporting MBF.How to connect with MBF:https://mbf.org/Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

Join Resilient Faith Podcast as we interview Tracey Evans, Hospitality Manager with Hope on Union. To learn more and to volunteer, contact Tracey here:Hope on Union l United University Church  uuc-la.org   How does BPC focus on Mission work? BPC is a Matthew 25 Church!Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry and gave you food, or thirsty and gave you something to drink? And when was it that we saw you a stranger and welcomed you, or naked and gave you clothing? And when was it that we saw you sick or in prison and visited you?' And the king will answer them, ‘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.'Matthew 25:31–46 calls all of us to actively engage in the world around us, so our faith comes alive and we wake up to new possibilities. Convicted by this passage, Brentwood Presbyterian Church joins our denomination, the PC(USA), to act boldly and compassionately to serve people who are hungry, oppressed, imprisoned or poor.The themes of the Matthew 25 invitation are grounded in the gospel. Jesus calls us to serve with and for “the least of these” — not as a group to be pitied, but as people who are deeply loved by Jesus. This loving commitment to radical and fearless discipleship has three focuses:• Building congregational vitality by challenging congregations and their members to deepen and energize their faith and grow as joyful leaders and disciples actively engaged with their community, seeing new disciples engaged in ministry and longstanding believers develop in faith as the gospel of Jesus Christ is shared in word and deed.• Dismantling structural racism by fearlessly applying our faith to advocate and break down the systems, practices and thinking that underlie discrimination, bias, prejudice and oppression of people of color.• Eradicating systemic poverty by acting on our beliefs and working to change laws, policies, plans and structures in our society that perpetuate economic exploitation of people who are poor.· Link to current OPPORTUNITIES TO SERVE· Link to BPC's INTERNATIONAL MISSION PARTNERS· Link to BPC's SEASONAL OPPORTUNITIES TO SERVEBE A PART OF THE BPC MISSION TEAMInterested in becoming part of the BPC MISSION TEAM or learning more about the Church's mission activities and partnerships?Contact Mission Elder Steve Ruth (sjruth123@gmail.com) or Pastor Lora East (Lora.East@bpcusa.org). The Mission Team meets monthly, in person as well as via Zoom, usually after the final service of each second Monday of the month. ALL ARE INVITED.Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

Join Resilient Faith Podcast and Pastor Lora East as she interviews Rev. Heidi Worthen-Gamble, the Mission Catalyst for the Presbytery of the Pacific.How does BPC focus on Mission work? BPC is a Matthew 25 Church!Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry and gave you food, or thirsty and gave you something to drink? And when was it that we saw you a stranger and welcomed you, or naked and gave you clothing? And when was it that we saw you sick or in prison and visited you?' And the king will answer them, ‘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.'Matthew 25:31–46 calls all of us to actively engage in the world around us, so our faith comes alive and we wake up to new possibilities. Convicted by this passage, Brentwood Presbyterian Church joins our denomination, the PC(USA), to act boldly and compassionately to serve people who are hungry, oppressed, imprisoned or poor.The themes of the Matthew 25 invitation are grounded in the gospel. Jesus calls us to serve with and for “the least of these” — not as a group to be pitied, but as people who are deeply loved by Jesus. This loving commitment to radical and fearless discipleship has three focuses:• Building congregational vitality by challenging congregations and their members to deepen and energize their faith and grow as joyful leaders and disciples actively engaged with their community, seeing new disciples engaged in ministry and longstanding believers develop in faith as the gospel of Jesus Christ is shared in word and deed.• Dismantling structural racism by fearlessly applying our faith to advocate and break down the systems, practices and thinking that underlie discrimination, bias, prejudice and oppression of people of color.• Eradicating systemic poverty by acting on our beliefs and working to change laws, policies, plans and structures in our society that perpetuate economic exploitation of people who are poor.· Link to current OPPORTUNITIES TO SERVE· Link to BPC's INTERNATIONAL MISSION PARTNERS· Link to BPC's SEASONAL OPPORTUNITIES TO SERVEBE A PART OF THE BPC MISSION TEAMInterested in becoming part of the BPC MISSION TEAM or learning more about the Church's mission activities and partnerships?Contact Mission Elder Steve Ruth (sjruth123@gmail.com) or Pastor Lora East (Lora.East@bpcusa.org). The Mission Team meets monthly, in person as well as via Zoom, usually after the final service of each second Monday of the month. ALL ARE INVITED.Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

What am I doing here? Why were we born and what is my purpose?  - Dave asks this or us in this sermon. It makes us all think, right? WHY was I born, why were we born. Let's use 2023 to find out! Romans 8: 5-14 NIV5 Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. 6 The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. 7 The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God's law, nor can it do so. 8 Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot please God.9 You, however, are not in the realm of the flesh but are in the realm of the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ. 10 But if Christ is in you, then even though your body is subject to death because of sin, the Spirit gives life because of righteousness. 11 And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.12 Therefore, brothers and sisters, we have an obligation—but it is not to the flesh, to live according to it. 13 For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live.14 For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

Scripture: Isaiah 9:2,6-7The people walking in darkness    have seen a great light;on those living in the land of deep darkness    a light has dawned.For to us a child is born,    to us a son is given,    and the government will be on his shoulders.And he will be called    Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,    Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.7 Of the greatness of his government and peace    there will be no end.He will reign on David's throne    and over his kingdom,establishing and upholding it    with justice and righteousness    from that time on and forever.The zeal of the Lord Almighty    will accomplish this.Scripture: Luke 2: 1-7 In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2 (This was the first census that took place while[a] Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 And everyone went to their own town to register.4 So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. 5 He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. 6 While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.Scripture: Luke 2: 8-20And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven,    and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5: 17-20Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come:[a] The old has gone, the new is here! 18 All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: 19 that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. 20 We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God.Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

In the quiet, we hear God. It's easy to reflect on the past; that iswhy they say hindsight is 20/20. As we reflect on this past year, let us be grateful. When we take moments of silence and still, we can hearGod. It may not always be great at deciphering the message, but I do knowthat God soothes me and allows me to get through stressful times.This holiday season can be one that is stressful, lonely, frustrating,busy, and full of the hustle and bustle that is the holiday season.Many of us have suffered sickness during this time, and many of ushave to travel and juggle busy schedules. Some of us have sufferedgreat loss and others are celebrating their best year ever. Through itall when we have a chance to be still, and  listen to God,  that isthe best gift of all.Luke 2: 8-20 NRSVThe Shepherds and the Angels8 In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: 11 to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah,a the Lord. 12 This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.” 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host,bpraising God and saying, 14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors!”c15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us.” 16 So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the child lying in the manger. 17 When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child; 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them. 19 But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.Support the showSupport us here:https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch