We need to talk about race
I’m committing to educating myself about racial issues in our world today and what they look like from the perspective of others.
And I’m starting with a book called We need to talk about race – Understanding the Black Experience in White Majority Churches. It’s written by Ben Lindsay, a black British pastor and activist based in South London, and gives much needed insights into the black religious experience, challenging the status quo in white majority churches. Filled with examples from real-life stories, including his own, Lindsay offers a comprehensive analysis of race relations in the Church in the UK and shows us how we can work together to create a truly inclusive church community.
Join me in reading this book and using it to help us live more faithful lives in Christ - who called us to remember that we are one race, one family – all children of the same heavenly Father.
The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry
I’ve just read this short book by John Mark Cromer, a pastor in Portland, Oregon – and thoroughly recommend it.
Cromer says that hurry is the great enemy of our spiritual lives today. And this is true. Just ask yourself how you can experience love, joy and peace in your life - if you are always in a hurry.
Cromer says that, if we are not careful, we end up skimming our lives rather than living them.
So what’s the remedy?
Cromer gives us four strategies – all starting with S: Silence & Solitude; Sabbath; Simplicity and Slowing Down. There’s lots of wisdom here – so switch off NetFlix for a couple of hours and pick up this book!
Ignore Everybody!
Another great book I’ve read recently. By Hugh McLeod.
Despite the rather alarming title, McLeod looks at what it takes to release our innate creativity. And part of that is not listening or caring too much about what other people say..
Start a journal
I’m trying to get my journaling habit back to a few daily notes – as above. Why not give it a try yourself? It doesn’t matter if your drawings are bad. Who cares? Just have fun. And create a wonderful record of your everyday life.
Among the Trees – at the Hayward Gallery
Many of us are probably missing cultural things in our lives like going to the theatre or exhibitions. I came across this absolutely beautiful online exhibition of works of art based on trees. It’s truly uplifting. You can see it here https://www.southbankcentre.co.uk/whats-on/exhibitions/hayward-gallery-art/among-the-trees
Tea parties
Flour is back in the shops. So there’s no excuse for not getting out your baking tins and making a lemon drizzle cake or some chocolate brownies! And then inviting a few friends round for a socially distanced cup of tea in the garden.
If you don’t have a garden – you are welcome to use our lovely Church garden. There are plastic chairs left out that you can use. Just make sure you stay alert and keep safe!