New Beginnings

There is something about getting away from the everyday that helps to re-order the soul. Retreating on a vacation to another place, another climate, another lifestyle stimulates creativity and possibility-thinking.

Bill and I returned last night from such a get-away. Nine days of travel and relaxation. A full week of warm clime, balmy breezes, sunshine, quietness and bird song. My mom and dad are experienced at being hosts. They have created their own island of tranquility in the desert in southern California. We are privileged to have visited there on three occasions so far. This last one was the most relaxing.

Bill seemed so sad to be going home. He truly enjoyed himself and was dreading the return to problems and conflict at the office. The only other time I remember him stating a similar soulful sigh was when we returned from Hawaii.

But I degress. Back to my original thought. Possibilities. Creativity. What now? Return to the "same old, same old"? Or follow the new path set before you? Can you relate? So, this morning I have been on the internet, as I often am, exploring things like art and gardens and flowers and discipleship. Hmmm. That last one happened, kinda by "accident." Southern Living, Big Picture Scrapbooking, ELCA.org. Don't ask me why. A bit of the quiet balmy breeze left in me. The article I read in "Charisma" magazine on the plane last night. So, elca.org it was. And there, in front of me was "Daily Discipleship." Sounds interesting. {Click} Hmmm... [reading] Gee, I miss our Koinonia group. We've talked about small groups in the Bridge Builders group. I wonder if this could work for our church. So, I am pondering this new thing. The Web pages created just for this "online lectionary Bible study" lays out objectives to be considered and a plan. My compulsive side says, "Rush right on in! Do something now! Let's go!" The Web page says "Count Down..... Week 8..... Week 7..... Week 4: Temple Talks.... Week3: Orientation and sign ups.... Week 1: Sermon on Discipleship... then GO!" Bummer! So, I'm thinking I could talk with someone else about this. Donna, Bill, Lois, Pastor Tim -- anyone else who might see the possibilities. Guess I'll spread the word and see what comes of it.

Check it out: http://www.elca.org/evangelism/dailydiscipleship/

Check back later..... at least 8 weeks later.