A New World

God is creating a new world out of this one. God is making all things possible, starting here and now. God is renewing life, love, and connection for the benefit of what is and will be. This week, worship centers around the creative process God has modeled for us, starting with what is and building what will be.

For the terrarium or other display this week, add some nutrients to the soil so that it will support life more fully. To do this, start with a few leaves. If they are small, add them, but shred or rip most of the leaves into smaller pieces. Water the leaves with the rest of the soil, so that the leaves can release nutrients into the soil. Make sure the plants are getting enough (and not too much) water.

This week, invite someone new to your community to talk about what it’s like to be new. If the individual is learning the language or the dialect spoken in your community, they may have stories about what it’s like to not fully be understood. That person can explain how to walk alongside those who enter your community, learning and helping with systems that may be confusing to newcomers, such as filling out forms for school registration or driver’s licenses.

Rev. Laura Baumgartner is pastor of Haller Lake United Methodist Church in Seattle, WA. She is also active in her local Interfaith Power and Light affiliate, Earth Ministry. Before attending seminary, Laura was a high school chemistry teacher for over 20 years. Her interests at the intersection of faith, science, and environment lead her outdoors, to the handbell table, or to the pet shop on her e-bike frequently.