Read the full issue of this week’s email newsletter here: The Weekly Liberal Feb. 2.

In this week’s issue, Rev. Justin writes:

Dear Ones,

These are turbulent, unsettled times, and they are calling us to be more mindful than ever before. They are calling us to deep spiritual work.

The truth is, if we’re not careful, we can be swept away in the swirling currents of Social Media. Unplugging for a period of hours, or even a day or two, can help calm our nervous system, and hear the “still, small voice” of the Spirit of Life, or the whispers of love, calling us in a particular direction. One of our spiritual practices can be to unplug, and to connect with ourselves, our neighbors, and those in our immediate community. In a time when everything is going fast, we can intentionally carve our space to “go slow.”

Another spiritual practice can be to act with intention and purpose. We can march, rally, protest, plan, and organize, as we act on our religious values. Pick an event or action that speaks to you, invite a friend, or join people from church, and act. There are a number of events coming up: on Saturday, Feb. 11, from noon to 3 p.m., there’s the MN Caravan of Love: A Walk of Love for Refugees and Immigrants; then at church on Sunday, Feb. 12, at 1 p.m., we’re offering a workshop called “Using Your Moral Power.” This hands-on, non-partisan workshop is designed to help people understand exactly how to best make their voices heard politically.

Another spiritual practice we can employ is one of discovering joy in the midst of it all. This practice is about noticing the bright spots amidst the gloom. It’s anchoring in gratitude for blessings large and small. Joy isn’t about ignoring the difficulties of life; instead, it’s the practice of opening one’s heart to the abundant gifts that surround us

In the coming days, may we tend to what matters: our own spirits, the health of our communities, and the ways that joy – as an unexpected guest – enters into our lives.

I’ll see you in church,
Justin