Every generous act of giving, with every perfect gift, is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. James 1:17

For the month of September, our Epistle readings are from the Letter of James. This letter is a powerful witness to early Christian diversity and to the moral imperative of Christian identity for us today. The name of Jesus is mentioned only twice; however, this epistle is a rich collection of statements concerning the nature and activity of God. James gives us much wisdom on how to live together as a community of mutual gift giving and support, reminding us that every gift is ultimately from God.

As our sabbatical summer nears its end, I’ve been reflecting on the many gifts I see at St. John’s. God has blessed this parish so that you can be a blessing, sharing your gifts with one another and in the world around you.

As we move into the program year, we will be asked to share our gifts in different ways, and my hope is that we will remember what we have learned about sabbath time. It is commanded by God, it is important, it is good for all of creation, and it is a gift from God.

As summer ends and we return to fall schedules at work, home, and church, may we be intentional to include sabbath time in our schedule. It is in sabbath time that we will hear God’s voice leading us to say yes to healthy ways to share our gifts, and also to say no to those ways that are not healthy. Taking time to rest is good self-care. I leave you with this poem by Mary Oliver as a reminder. Rest well!

Today  by Mary Oliver

Today I’m flying low and I’m

not saying a word

I’m letting all the voodoos of ambition sleep.

The world goes on as it must,

the bees in the garden rumbling a little,

the fish leaping, the gnats getting eaten.

And so forth.

But I’m taking the day off.

Quiet as a feather.

I hardly move though really I’m traveling

a terrific distance.

Stillness. One of the doors

into the temple.