Podcasts about where we begin

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Best podcasts about where we begin

Latest podcast episodes about where we begin

Unitarian Church of Edmonton (UCE)
“Why Are We So Afraid of Conflict?”, March 23, 2025

Unitarian Church of Edmonton (UCE)

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 23, 2025 50:07


The Right Relations Team explores the importance of promoting healthy relationships and addressng conflict in constructive ways. ORDER OF SERVICE Welcome and Announcements Land Acknowledgement Chalice Lighting - Beloved is Where We Begin by Jan Richardson Prelude - A Beautiful Distraction by Michele McLaughlin Hymn 346 - Come Sing a Song with Me Canvass Presentation – Lynne Turvey Sharing Our Abundance - WINGS - Women In Need Growing Stronger Sung Response – Just One Step Hymn 1008 - When Our Heart is in a Holy Place Reflections – Carol Hutchings and Lynn Wolff Small Group Work (not recorded) Hymn of the Month - Clear Blue Morning by Gordon Ritchie Reading – What Took You So Long by John Roedel Candles of Joy and Concern Musical Presentation – Rise Up by Andy Armer and Randy Badazz Alpert - performed by Andrea Graham and Gordon Ritchie Extinguishing the Flame Benediction Video - Try a Little Kindness by Jann Arden (not recorded) Carry the Flame Postlude

BRAVE NEW YOU TRIBE
Harnessing our human capacity to rise again, with war correspondent & author Ros Russell

BRAVE NEW YOU TRIBE

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 16, 2024 32:56


How can we learn from human stories of survival to understand our own capacity to rise again?Rosalind Russell is a journalist & editor whose reporting included the fall of the Taliban in Afghanistan, the war in Iraq & Myanmar's Saffron Revolution. She's the author of Burma's Spring & The End of Where We Begin which won the 2021 Moore Prize for excellence in human rights writing.The End of Where We Begin is about three, young South Sudanese refugees, Veronica, Daniel and Lilian. They are from a young country ripped apart by war. Each has had a different experience and come from different sides of the ethnically-fuelled conflict. But their lives collide in a refugee camp in Uganda, and with the help of the community they build there, and rudimentary counselling, they start to carve out new futures for themselves.Ros gives us a better understanding of people who are part of the global refugee and migration crisis- their needs, desires and motivations as human beings, but also gives us an insight into the strength and resilience within ourselves, the power of the human spirit.She shows us the power of human beings to withstand horrifying circumstances, and with the right support, to be able to rise again. You can find out more about Ros's work on https://rosrussellauthor.com/And follow her on Instagram @ros_russell Join Lou on LinkedinFollow her @brave_newgirl on Instagram Music by Melody LoopSupport the showLou is the founder of Brave New Girl Media, helping put your expertise in the spotlight by helping you launch a new podcast, producing your existing podcast or guesting you on other people's podcasts. https://bravenewgirlmedia.comPODCASTING SERVICES:Done-for-you podcast production serviceDone-for-you podcast guesting representationCOURSES:Podcast Guesting introductionFull Podcast Guesting coursePodcast planning workbookBOOK A CALL:Get in contact to book a 30 minute discovery call with Lou.Books by Lou Hamilton: Dare to Share- bestselling guide to podcast guesting FEAR LESS- coaching guide to living more bravely Brave New Girl- How to be Fearless

Another Chapter
Chapter Six - Interview with Aoife Cassidy

Another Chapter

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 17, 2023 65:45


If anyone can tell you how to make time to read amid the chaos of day to day life, it's mum of 4 Aoife Cassidy! In this episode, Rebecca chats to Aoife and discovers what it is like to become an advocate for secular education, who Aoife's literary dinner guests would be, and what plans Aoife has for her future! - - - Books recommended in this episode are: “From Caucasia, with love” by Danzy Senna “Nothing but Blue Sky” by Kathleen McMahon “We don't know ourselves” by Fintan O' Toole “The End of Where We Begin” by Rosalind Russell “Bessborough” by Deirdre Finnerty “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald “The Neapolitan Quartet” by Elena Ferrante Young Adult Recommendations: “Noughts and Crosses” by Malorie Blackman. “The Hate U Give” by Angie Thomas. “A Good Girl's Guide to Murder” series by Holly Jackson “I'll Give You the Sun” by Jandy Nelson. “The Hunger Games” series by Suzanne Collins - - - Thanks to Helen Becerra for the artwork and Mark Neville for the mixing. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/make-it-work License code: PLGGIGEZMJI9NR3G --- Follow us on Instagram: @another.chapter.podcast Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/another-chapter/message --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/another-chapter/message

The Storied Living Podcast
Five Phases of Healing Through Story Pt. 1

The Storied Living Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 8, 2022 25:13


Brainstorm: The Power and Purpose of the Teenage BrainBeloved is Where We Begin, By Jan Richardson - PoemJohn O DonohueCathy LoerzelThe Allender Center

Where We Begin
Where We Begin Season 3 LIVE (recorded 9.22.2022)

Where We Begin

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2022 90:35


In today's episode, the group recorded a live episode via YouTube and Facebook on September 22nd, 2022! They answered questions that YOU, the listeners, have sent in as well as questions that were asked live via chat. Today's episode is longer than usual but we think it's worth the listen as the Where We Begin team continues to point people to the love of Jesus Christ. Website - https://lightengroup.org (https://lightengroup.org) Instagram – https://instagram.com/lightengroup (https://instagram.com/lightengroup) Facebook – https://facebook.com/lightengroup (https://facebook.com/lightengroup) YouTube – http://youtube.com/lightengroup (http://youtube.com/lightengroup)

Where We Begin
Where We Begin Season 2 LIVE (recorded 8.25.2022)

Where We Begin

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2022 88:31


In today's episode, the group recorded a live episode via http://youtube.com/lightengroup (YouTube) and https://facebook.com/lightengroup (Facebook) on August 25th, 2022! They answered questions that YOU, the listeners, have sent in as well as questions that were asked live via chat. Today's episode is longer than usual but we think it's worth the listen as the Where We Begin team continues to point people to the love of Jesus Christ.   Website - https://lightengroup.org/ (https://lightengroup.org) Instagram – https://instagram.com/lightengroup (https://instagram.com/lightengroup) Facebook – https://facebook.com/lightengroup (https://facebook.com/lightengroup) YouTube – http://youtube.com/lightengroup (http://youtube.com/lightengroup)

Homeschool Unrefined
187: Most-Loved Episodes #6: Where We Begin with Deschooling

Homeschool Unrefined

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 20, 2022 56:44


We're sharing some of the most-loved episodes from our archives. Here's #6!   We do two episodes a week—this is our free one. Join us on Patreon to unlock a NEW episode every week for just $5/month!   #6: Where We Begin with Deschooling This episode originally aired on January 27, 2020.   So, like, what even is deschooling?! The fact is this: We are immersed in a schooled mindset. It's the air we breathe, the water we swim in. Deschooling is a way to reprogram our thinking about learning.  We're going to talk through this essential homeschooling tool: What is it? Why bother? What does it actually look like? And what comes next?   Highlights from this episode: Learning is natural and happening all the time. Deschooling doesn't mean it's a free for all.  Deschooling lets us concentrate on connection.  Deschooling teaches us that deep thinking is deep thinking--it doesn't matter if it's about math or Minecraft. Don't use your status as an adult as a weapon. As parents, we are continually deschooling ourselves.      It's all happening on Patreon! You can always get new content on Patreon! Join our $5 Squad on Patreon to get an extra episode every week. Every month, you'll get 2 Listener Q&P (Question & Process) Episodes, an LTW Extra episode, and a monthly check-in where we get real about what's going well, what's hard right now, and what we're doing for self-care. You'll also get plugged into our community of like-minded parents for support, encouragement, and fun!   More About Homeschool Unrefined We are an inclusive and nonsectarian podcast. We believe Black Lives Matter, and we are LGBTQ+ affirming (for more, read our piece on Romper). We are listener supported and are donating 10% of all Patreon income and product sales to The Conscious Kid, a Black and Brown-led organization that has been instrumental in our own evolution and in leading the way in both ideological and tangible change with their work in “parenting and education through a critical race lens." Read our full ABAR Statement here and on Instagram.   Connect with us!  Visit our website | Sign up for our newsletter. | Support us on Patreon. | bookshop.org Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Youtube Angela on Instagram: @unrefinedangela | Maren on Instagram: @unrefinedmaren Email us any questions or feedback at homeschoolunrefined@gmail.com

Where We Begin
Where We Begin Season 1 "Best Of"

Where We Begin

Play Episode Listen Later May 19, 2022 8:38


Season 2 of Where We Begin is coming out soon! We're excited to share it with you! In the meantime, here are some of our favorite responses to the questions we had in our first season. In these clips, Lou, Xandra, Alycia, and Derek show us how every question can point us back to Jesus Christ. We believe that the responses that Christianity offers will help us all step into rest, clarity, and joy. At Lighten, we extend God's invitation to all those who ask, "Why?". Email - wherewebegin@lightengroup.org Website - https://lightengroup.org Give - https://lightengroup.org/give/

Where We Begin
What's So Bad About Porn?

Where We Begin

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 1, 2022 29:14


Where We Begin is a podcast where we discuss some of the toughest objections to the Christian faith. In this episode, the group discuses how pornography can not only affect the viewers, but also those around them, and how the objectification of others can cause physical, emotional, and spiritual pain. The good news is that God gives us grace from the shame and hurt that comes with pornography. References: Justin Holcomb, Episcopal Priest and Theology Professor C.S. Lewis - "The Great Divorce" St. Augustine, Bishop and Theologian Email - wherewebegin@lightengroup.org Website - https://lightengroup.org/ (https://lightengroup.org) Give -  https://lightengroup.org/give/ (https://lightengroup.org/give/)

Where We Begin
What Can't God Do?

Where We Begin

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 1, 2022 26:45


Where We Begin is a podcast where we discuss some of the toughest objections to the Christian faith. In this first episode of "Where We Begin", we meet the group and they discuss the character of God and if there is anything that He can't do.  References: Alvin Plantinga, Philosopher Email - wherewebegin@lightengroup.org Website - https://lightengroup.org/ (https://lightengroup.org) Give -  https://lightengroup.org/give/ (https://lightengroup.org/give/)

god where we begin
Mixtape Book Club
Track 25: Alt Endings

Mixtape Book Club

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 26, 2021 115:54


In this episode, Ellen and Mal welcome back author MandalaRose to discuss fics that rewrite the end of Supernatural. Fics include The End is Where We Begin by MandalaRose, Buffer Time by SundayZenith, and Anamnesis by cenotaphy, among others. The post Track 25: Alt Endings appeared first on Mixtape Book Club.

Mixtape Book Club
Track 25: Alt Endings

Mixtape Book Club

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 26, 2021 115:54


Ellen and Mal welcome back author MandalaRose to discuss fics that rewrite the end of Supernatural. Fics include The End is Where We Begin by MandalaRose, Buffer Time by SundayZenith, and Anamnesis by cenotaphy, among others. The post Track 25: Alt Endings appeared first on Mixtape Bookclub.

Seattle Mennonite Church Sermons
Beloved & Gripped by the Spirit

Seattle Mennonite Church Sermons

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 24, 2021 19:05


You are beloved and God's Spirit is with you. Y'all are beloved and God's Spirit is with y'all. We are beloved and God's Spirit is with us. Sometimes the sermon is a mantra. With a couple of plump, plucked cherries atop.Sermon begins at minute 4:20.Scripture: 1 Samuel 16.1-13; Psalm 51.10-14Image: Photo by Mae Mu on Unsplash.“Beloved is Where We Begin,” Jan Richardson, from Circle of Grace: A Book of Blessings for the Seasons (2015), 96.Bibleworm podcast: Episode 308 - The Anointing of David, Amy Robertson and Robert Williamson, Jr.

The Integrated Schools Podcast
Where We Begin - An Integrated Schools Webinar

The Integrated Schools Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2021 48:00


Please join us for How We Show Up (part 1) on April 19th, 5pm PDT / 8pm EDT. Registration is free!Our country has, at times, and in fits and starts, worked toward desegregation, but never meaningfully worked toward real integration. Desegregation is about the moving of bodies, the demographic percentages in a school building. Integration is about, in the words of David Kirkland, "fundamentally working to organize our society in a different way, where our differences are seen as spaces that we not only celebrate but LET BE, where this forms the vibrancy of our being as a society." It is about decentering Whiteness, it is about creating new forms of shared power, and it is about recognizing the full humanity of every kid.Historically, the ways White &/or privileged people talk about “good” vs. “bad” schools, the choices we make, both individually and collectively, about where to educate our children, and the ways we show up when we do enroll in global-majority schools have served to maintain our advantages and in turn, continue to oppress others. This didn’t happen by accident.Todays episode is an edit of our first ever webinar- The Integrated Schools Movement: Where We Begin.  In it, we explore how our schools got to where they are now, and what role we play in either maintaining or disrupting this system. Members of our all-volunteer crew share personal stories of enrolling our kids in global-majority schools, and the joys and missteps we experience while showing up as parents and community members. LINKS:A video of the webinarSlides shared during the webinarThe original resource list shared after the webinar:Native Land FinderEpisode: White Supremacy and Black Educational Excellence: Hidden Stories of the Integration Movement – Integrated Schools podcast featuring a conversation with Dr. Vanessa Siddle Walker and Dr. Elizabeth McRae facilitated by Dani McClainVanessa Siddle Walker: The Lost Education of Horace TateElizabeth McRae: Mothers of Massive ResistanceEpisode: White Women and the Politics of White SupremacyThe current levels of segregation in our schools.The wealth gap – from Brookings, and The Washington PostRichard Rothstein – The Color of LawMichelle Alexander – The New Jim CrowEdBuild on the $23 billion funding gap between districts serving predominantly students of color vs White students.David KirklandEpisode: Kirkland on IntegrationRucker JohnsonThe Children of the DreamEpisode – Rucker Johnson and the Grandchildren of DesegregationDr Kfir MordechayEpisode: GentrificationDr. Amanda LewisDespite the Best Intentions: How Racial Inequality Thrives in Good Schools with John DiamondEpisode: Desegregation without IntegrationEngage with Integrated SchoolsFind your local chapterSign up for our Parent-to-Parent programListen to the podcastJoin our PatreonJoin our Facebook groupCheck out our full resource listSign up for Book ClubUse these links or start at our Bookshop.org storefront to support local bookstores, and send a portion of the proceeds back to us.  Join our Patreon to support this work, and connect with us and other listeners to discuss these issues even further.Let us know what you think of this episode, suggest future topics, or share your story with us - @integratedschls on twitter, IntegratedSchools on Facebook, or email us hello@integratedschools.org.The Integrated Schools Podcast was created by Courtney Mykytyn and Andrew Lefkowits.This episode was produced, edited, and mixed by Andrew Lefkowits.Music by Kevin Casey

Potter's Inn Soul Care Conversations
The Bible as Stories of Rescue, not a Weapon

Potter's Inn Soul Care Conversations

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 9, 2021 55:28


SHOW NOTES Dear Friends of the Soul Care Podcast: I love hanging out with smart people.  That's what happened in this conversation with Dr. Bob Mayer. We talked about how the Bible has become a club which we have weaponized to beat one another up with these days.  We quote a Scripture; use a Bible verse to prove our point and to establish a basis of believing rather than accepting the Bible as a book of rescue stories.  Bob Mayer explains that the Bible is a book of rescue stories.  Stories --that help us in our own rescue to come home. When we unlearn what may have gathered as "fact" about our view of what the Bible and relearn that the Bible is a spiritual book and must be learned in a spiritual way.  You'll want to listen to this with a pen in hand and paper to take some notes. It's like going back to school. And this is the reason I really like THIS podcast.  We need to unlearn and relearn so much because so much is not working for us anymore.  THIS conversation will help you so much and I hope you'll listen in and join the conversation where the soul meets the world.  As you listen, Bob's trusted voice will become a beacon to help you find your way home about what you will WANT to believe about the Bible. The Bible is a series of stories about a rescue mission with the similar them of a loving God who wants us to come home!  We are all slow learners--I know I am. This particular podcast is foundational and so very important. I commend it to you. As you listen this week, Gwen and I will be on retreat with a brand new cohort of men and women who will begin a two year journey with the Soul Care Institute. We'd appreciate your prayers .  Every blessing dear friends!  Steve   SPECIAL GUEST DR. ROBERT MAYER Dr. Mayer joined Gordon-Conwell in 1997 as Senior Librarian and Director of the Gordon-Conwell libraries, and Director of the Harold Lindsell Library at the Charlotte campus. Dr. Mayer’s scholarly interests include American church history, Advent Christian Church history and theology, and 20th century American evangelicalism - with a B.S. at the University of San Francisco; M.A. at Fuller Theological Seminary; D.Min. at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary and an MLIS at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. He enjoys visiting historical sites, which he does often with his wife, Renee, and has been an avid supporter of the San Francisco 49ers football team since he was nine. His other personal interests include collecting campaign buttons (of which he has over 70) and attending concerts and the theater.   MENTIONED IN PODCAST 2 Timothy 3: 15-16 (MSG) Shaped by the Word by Robert Mulholland Reading: Beloved is Where We Begin by Jan Richardson. Read by Joe Chambers. Ancient Words by Lynn DeShazo, performed by Michael W. Smith Lyrics       SOLO: CREATING SPACE WITH GOD by Stephen W. Smith and Peter Ivey LEARN MORE ABOUT THE BOOK!    

The Next Step
Radical Advocacy

The Next Step

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 11, 2020 19:53


This message was originally preached on October 11, 2020. I recommend before listening to this message that you consider the blessing: "Beloved is Where We Begin" (by Jan Richardson) as you remember how Beloved you are as a Child of God even before considering the advocacy that God is calling you to on behalf of the other. I pray this message - as compelling a call to advocacy as I can hope to preach - touches your heart with a name, a face, and a cause from the Lord. May we understand and demonstrate what it means to be a Radical Advocate.

Published...Or Not
Christie Nieman and Melissa Davey

Published...Or Not

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 27, 2020


A mother is too full of shame and a daughter is too full of anger. When the past secrets meet the secrets of the present, will there be any forgiveness in 'Where We Begin' by Christie Nieman.Melissa Davey undertakes a forensic examination of all the court proceedings in ‘The Case of George Pell’.

First Presbyterian Church Red Wing's Podcast
Wilderness: Wilderness is Where We Begin

First Presbyterian Church Red Wing's Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 1, 2020 15:42


The sermon preached on March 1, 2020 at First Presbyterian Church in Red Wing, MN by Rev. Greg Bolt. This week's sermon text was Genesis 2: 15-17, 3:1-7, Matthew 4: 1-11, and was entitled, "Wilderness: Wilderness is Where We Begin". This was the first in a series on the theme of Wilderness for the season of Lent. Inspired by the work of A Sanctified Art.You can find us at www.firstpresbyterianredwing.com on facebook, or on twitter (@FPCRW)

Homeschool Unrefined
127: Where We App School

Homeschool Unrefined

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 10, 2020 48:54


It’s seems like there’s a lot of stigma and shame around screens, especially for us homeschoolers. But should there be? Is all screen time created equal? We’ve embraced what we call “app schooling” for a few years, and now we want to help take away some of the shame around using screens for learning. Apps can take the pressure off us (and our kids!) on busy days and around difficult subjects (*cough* math *cough*). We love the variety, efficiency, and freedom apps have to offer. Listen as we talk about how app schooling can help keep homeschool simple, real, and fun!   Show us your apps! Tag us in your stories with the apps you’re using! We’ll share some in our stories and create a highlight!   Highlights from this episode: App schooling frees us up to expend energy on other things, including our strengths and activities we enjoy. App schooling keeps us moving forward academically, even through busy days and challenging seasons. Apps can offer a more efficient (and exciting!) method of teaching and learning. Technology is kind of our kids’ language—it can be a more comfortable way for them to learn. Did we have a preconceived notion about how we would teach our kids, formed long before we reached this educational stage? Do we need to reevaluate our ideas and standards around screens? App schooling can give all of us a much-needed break from direct teaching. Be ok with trying something! You can always pull back.   Mentions Episode 126: Where We Begin with Deschooling Nature Series   Introducing the $5 Squad on Patreon: One Level. All the Rewards We've simplified our Patreon reward levels. Join for just $5 a month and get all this: - 2 monthly episodes (including live recordings!) - Discounts on classes - First-to-know news and announcements - Access to our exclusive behind-the-scenes feed - Extended guest interviews - All the archived Patreon episodes - Squad-only Facebook group   Classes Check out our Personalities & Homeschool classes! Each class is $10, with all four classes bundled for just $30. (Psst... Patrons get an additional discount on the four-class package.)   Merch! Treat yourself to Homeschool Unrefined totes, hoodies, mugs, and more in our Merch Shop!   Show Some Love Leave us an iTunes review! Your reviews help more people find the podcast. When new people find us, they'll see how much YOU love the podcast and want to listen, too! Loving This Week  Angela: Know My Name: A Memoir by Chanel Miller Maren: Cheer on Netflix   Before You Go... Share this episode with a friend and let’s keep the conversation going in our closed Facebook group: Unrefined Homeschoolers.⁣   Connect with us!  Visit our website | Sign up for our newsletter. | Support us on Patreon. | Join our closed Facebook group: Unrefined Homeschoolers. | Merch Shop Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Youtube Angela on Instagram: @unrefinedangela | Maren on Instagram: @unrefinedmaren Email us any questions or feedback at homeschoolunrefined@gmail.com Visit our Amazon Shop: https://www.amazon.com/shop/homeschoolunrefined We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

Christ Lutheran Church in Webster Groves, MO
Persistent Reminders That We Are God's Beloved

Christ Lutheran Church in Webster Groves, MO

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 13, 2020


January 12, 2020. Our interim resident pastor, Stephanie Doeschot, is ending her time with us very soon. Today, in one of her last sermons for us, she again reminds us that we are all beloved children of God. *** Transcript ***Grace to you and peace from our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.Just to put your minds at ease, if you were here last week and either witnessed or heard about my little episode with overheating and dehydration, I'm going to take a large drink of water right now. [Takes a drink.] There, that's done. It is fitting anyway to talk about water today, since we are looking at the baptism of Jesus -- and baptism always requires water. Here in this church it requires very little, but water is essential. You may have heard this analogy before, but some have likened the practice of baptism to some of the branches of the military. Some Christian churches are like the Navy: they love a lot of water. They would be like the Baptists, who require full immersion for a legitimate baptism. Others are like the Army, who deal only with small amounts of water such as we have here in the baptismal font. A sprinkling of water will do, and that suits us just fine. Other churches are like the Marines. They operate on either land or sea, so they will do immersions or sprinkling. It's all the same to them. Regardless of the mode, all in the church see water as a means to communicate that we are washed in the forgiveness of Christ, and we emerge from either a lot or a little bit of water as people with a particular identity. In the rite of baptism, we are reminded of the great love that God has for us in Christ, and are called the beloved children of God.I wonder, though, if that is the first thing we think about when we are asked to define ourselves. Think about it. Most often when we think about who we are, and someone asks us, we answer with some version of "I am what I do." I work in an office. I paint houses. I sell real estate. I teach children. I perform surgeries. I write music. I clean homes. I go to school. Those are all fine, important things to do. But what we do doesn't define us. It tells something about how we spend some of our time, but it's still not truly who we are at the core. And that's a good thing, because what happens when a job gets outsourced, or we become disabled? Then, seeing ourselves as what we do becomes very, very inadequate.Another way we may describe who we are might be well, "Here is what people say about me." And we could list the accolades and awards we've received and feel really, really good about ourselves. It's a powerful thing to have people speak well of us. But then what happens to our sense of ourselves when negative things are said about us? If our identities are tied to what is said about us, we'll be on a very, very narrow balance beam, because no one hears only positive things about themselves. And studies have shown that a person can get ten compliments in a week, but if there's that one insult or criticism or negative comment that strikes at their heart about their character or something they've done, that is likely what they'll remember the most.Another way we can view ourselves is to think, "I am what I have." I have things that make my life enjoyable: good health, good friends, and family. That too is all well and good until losses come, and they do come in every life. What if I lose some of what I have that most defines me? When our identities come from what we do, what people say about us, or what we have, we are set up for living a roller coaster life. Because all these things vary throughout life, and they will at some points fail us, because they are a poor substitute for understanding where our true identity lies.Henri Nouwen, in his book The Life Of The Beloved, reminds us that Jesus was tempted to define himself in every one of those three categories, in what we call the Temptations of Jesus in the Wilderness. The first temptation that Jesus faced was to define himself by what he did. If you'll remember, the tempter whispered, "Turn these stones into bread, and then you'll really be somebody." Jesus refused. The second temptation Jesus faced was for him to uphold his reputation as Son of God and test God by jumping from the top of the temple. Again, Jesus refused. The third temptation came when he was shown all the kingdoms of the world. If only Jesus would bow down and worship Satan, he was promised, then Jesus could have it all. Jesus once again refused. Jesus responded to each of these lies of the false narratives of his true identity in each case. At his core he knew he was not what he did. He was not about keeping up a reputation based on a distorted self-image. And he could not be defined by what he had or did not have.The story of his baptism precedes these temptations for a very good reason. It was in the context of our baptism story today that Jesus could say no to the wrong ways of identifying himself, and say yes to his true identity throughout his earthly life. It was through his baptism that he heard these sweet and all-powerful words that told him most clearly who he was: "You are my beloved and with you I am well pleased." That message guided Jesus' three-year Ministry that followed. Whether he was able to see a person receive wholeness or wellness that he had to offer, or when he was met with stubborn resistance to God's love, he kept hearing the voice that told him he was God's beloved. Whether Jesus faced warm welcomes or was met by angry crowds, he kept hearing the voice that told him he was God's beloved. When he had a sumptuous meal at the home of friends, or when he said he had no place to lay his head, he kept on hearing the voice that told him he was God's beloved. That is the same message that you and I need to hear about ourselves, because it is the truth that we affirm in our baptisms. It is the truth about the way God views each and every one of us. We are God's beloved.Now, in a few weeks my time of serving as your interim resident pastor will conclude. As I move forward from our time together, I will take with me so very many good memories of conversations and interactions with you as a congregation. You have enriched my life through your faith and witness to the gospel of grace, that has clearly formed you as the beloved people of God. Honestly, you are just some of the best people I've ever been privileged to know. And I've been alive for a very long time and I've known a lot of people, so I do not say that lightly. You do demonstrate well what it means to be the beloved children of God.One of the many conversations that will stick with me long after I depart occurred in my office with the Mudd family, as we talked about the baptism of Rick in early December. Not only were parents Philip and Sarah well-prepared to bring their son to receive baptism, they had also prepared his big sister Katie well for the occasion. Two-year-old Katie confidently answered her parents when they asked her to tell me what was going to happen to Rick soon. "He's going to be baptized," she answered. And then this: "And Katie, what will we call Rick then?" "A child of God." Well, we did not need to talk any longer about the theological implications of baptism after that. I did not have any more questions for the parents, because they were clearly telling their two-year-old Katie about her own identity in Christ, and also how her brother was to be identified. Both were told that they were the children of God, God's own beloved ones. Rick (eight months old at his baptism) may not have heard the words telling him that day that he is God's beloved, but I can well imagine that his parents and sister, all of you, will continue to tell him, and then tell him again as he grows up, that he is a child of God. Every time he sees others baptized he can remember that just as that person is proclaimed a child of God, all of these people and more, that also describes his fundamental identity.We all need persistent reminders that the truth about us from God's perspective -- the perspective that matters the most -- is that we are God's beloved. We are cherished. We are safe, and ultimately well and tethered to the source of life and love. We are made in God's image. And just as God proclaimed when creating all things, God delights in us and calls us created beings very, very good. Imagine for yourself that you hear these words from God: you are my beloved child in whom I am well pleased. There are additional words that have been addressed to us from God throughout the Bible. Here are just a few: I have loved you with an everlasting love. I have written your name on the palms of my hands. I have knitted you together in your mother's womb. Precious. That's what you and I and all people are to God. Beloved. God's own children in whom God delights.Can we carry that message with us as the dominant way we see ourselves, day in and day out, year in and year out, in the good times and not-so-good times? God gives us that message because it frees us from the baggage of ill-fitting and destructive identities. It is most truly who we are, independent of other voices and circumstances. Embracing the identity of "beloved child of God" is the only way we can love God and love others who are also beloved children of God. It is from a place of deep security that we are cherished, that we can live the full life that God wants us to have. But granted, it's a lifelong journey to claim that identity and live into it.In closing I share with you a poem written by Jan Richardson. It's entitled "Beloved is Where We Begin."If you would enterinto the wilderness,do not beginwithout a blessing.Do not leavewithout hearingwho you are:Beloved,named by the Onewho has traveled this pathbefore you.Do not gowithout letting it echoin your ears,and if you findit is hardto let it into your heart,do not despair.That is whatthis journey is for.I cannot promisethis blessing will free youfrom danger,from fear,from hungeror thirst,from the scorchingof sunor the fallof the night.But I can tell youthat on this paththere will be help.I can tell youthat on this waythere will be rest.I can tell youthat you will knowthe strange gracesthat come to our aidonly on a roadsuch as this,that fly to meet usbearing comfortand strength,that come alongside usfor no other causethan to lean themselvestoward our earand with theircurious insistencewhisper our name:Beloved.Beloved.Beloved.As you come forward later for communion, you may want to dip your fingers in the water to remind yourself that you truly are the beloved of God. I encourage you to do whatever it takes to repeat that mantra to yourself, so that that becomes truly the way you see yourself, because it gives great honor also to God.Please rise now to sing our hymn of the day, and thanks to God.*** Keywords ***2020, Christ Lutheran Church, Webster Groves, sermon, podcast, transcript, Pastor Stephanie Doeschot, Matthew 3:13-17, Circle of Grace

The Word Is Resistance
TWIR 1.12.20 Baptized in Belovedness

The Word Is Resistance

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 10, 2020 28:12


There is something on the other side of the end of the world. Rev. Anne Dunlap discovers belovedness running like currents through the servant song of Isaiah 42 and Jesus's baptism. Transcript with action links can be found here: https://www.showingupforracialjustice.org/the-word-is-resistance.html Special gratitude to Jan Richardson for her blessing "Beloved is Where We Begin," from her book "Circle of Grace" and on her website here: https://paintedprayerbook.com/2016/02/11/lent-1-beloved-is-where-we-begin/ (c) Jan Richardson janrichardson.com

Sinner Saint Sister
MINI EPISODE 1- Spiritual Friendship

Sinner Saint Sister

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 11, 2017 10:14


Left overs from Episode 1 Spiritual Friendship and a Jan Richardson poem, Beloved is Where We Begin

Podcast – The Uncle Earl
“Stage, Film & Action Down Under”

Podcast – The Uncle Earl

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2015 119:38


In today’s show, meet filmmakers Mitsuyo Miyazaki, Peter Maestrey & Yvonne Jimenez, as we discuss their new indie dance short “Where We Begin” which is screening at Tribeca film Festival in NYC this weekend.   Go way down underground with our Australian correspondent, Willow chatting it up with Rapper/Activist Imperial C.   Last but not […] The post “Stage, Film & Action Down Under” appeared first on The Uncle Earl.

Podcast – The Uncle Earl
“Stage, Film & Action Down Under”

Podcast – The Uncle Earl

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 13, 2015 119:38


In today’s show, meet filmmakers Mitsuyo Miyazaki, Peter Maestrey & Yvonne Jimenez, as we discuss their new indie dance short “Where We Begin” which is screening at Tribeca film Festival in NYC this weekend.   Go way down underground with our Australian correspondent, Willow chatting it up with Rapper/Activist Imperial C.   Last but not least, Uncle Earl was invited […] The post “Stage, Film & Action Down Under” appeared first on The Uncle Earl.

Kentucky Chapel
This is Not the End but Where We Begin

Kentucky Chapel

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 5, 2013 21:23


December 5, 2013 - This is Not the End but Where We Begin by Corbet May

where we begin
Kentucky Chapel
This is Not the End but Where We Begin

Kentucky Chapel

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 5, 2013 21:13


December 5, 2013 - This is Not the End but Where We Begin by Corbet May

where we begin