A faith community has always been important to me. My father helped to found a church in the lake community where I grew up. I enjoyed Sunday School and youth group as a child and teenager. I went to a Presbyterian college, where we were required to attend a chapel service each morning before classes and take a Bible course as a freshman.
During my adult years my faith community was Sudbury United Methodist Church, for 45 years. Here I grew in my faith and met many wonderful, faith-filled people who became my friends. I fondly remember teaching Sunday School, attending the annual church retreat, participating in Bible studies and a covenant group, serving on the Education and Membership committees, being a Stephen Minister, being part of a Women’s Circle, and so much more. Now I am active in a faith community in Plymouth, Massachusetts. I try to share my faith and encourage others. A faith community has and always will be important to me.
I want to share the following thoughts to encourage you on your life and faith journey. I hope it resonates with you.
“You (God) show me the path of life. In your presence there is fullness of joy.” (Psalm 16:11)
Stop, Relax and Rest
Relax, relax. Let mind, body, and soul relax.
Wander in your imagination to a quiet place.
Leave behind worries, burdens, the rush of life.
Stop, relax and rest in God’s presence.
Smile, believe that life is good.
Believe that God cares for you, believes in you.
Do not ponder why bad things happen.
Just imagine light and love bursting forth like Spring.
Soak in the sunshine, the warmth, the compassion.
Imagine Jesus or peace or God’s Kingdom on earth.
Relax, relax; don’t worry.
Look around you; see the beauty of nature unfolding.
Listen to quiet music; give thanks for family and friends.
We are together in faith, in sharing, even in silence.
Relax, relax. Let mind, body, and soul relax.
You are in the presence of God.
Now and forever!
-Nancy Sweeney
(former SUMC member; now a member of a UCC Church in Plymouth, MA)
Sudbury UMC Lenten Devotions 