Each week, Winthrop Wesley sends out a mass email to students called “Wesley Weekly.” This email includes a reflection of some sort, events in the coming week, events down the road, and any job postings or other announcements. Here are the reflection portions of past Wesley Weekly’s that my gmail would let me find.
April 5, 2012
February 22, 2012
February 13, 2012
February 2, 2012
January 19, 2012
December 1, 2011
November 21, 2011
I can’t believe it’s Thanksgiving. I can believe that we’re all ready for a break and for those of you with classes tomorrow night – my heart really does go out to you! But, I can’t believe it’s the end of November and the semester is winding to a close with some tests, papers, projects standing in between you and the end of the semester. Some are probably feeling pretty confident and on top of things, while others wonder if there are enough hours in the day and if they’ll ever get a break. No matter where we land on this spectrum, I think there are things on Thursday that we can find to be thankful for. I talked to a student earlier today who, like many is struggling at the end of the semester after eating ramen for every meal the past couple weeks. I know that times are tough and there is hardship and real struggle all around us whether with money or academics or family stuff or significant others/best friends/roommates or our own “stuff.” May we know and realize that we don’t have to carry any of this alone but that there are people and communities willing to share the load. May we not just look at the things that we don’t have or we wish we had, but at the things that we do we have – the things that we treasure, that neither moth nor dust can destroy. Each of us can hopefully name at least 3 things that we’re thankful for. My prayer for each of us is that we are open and ready to experience this spirit of gratefulness and a sense of wonder in this season of thanks and as we prepare for Christmas. May we let our cynicism, pessimism, elitism, and other crud get out of the way so that we can feel and know the mighty power and grace that is offered to us each day.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H_0Y4aSY1hM&feature=related
October 20, 2011
October 10, 2011
This is one of those crazy times in the semester when people have tests and papers and projects galore and the seasons are changing so theirs sickness and allergies and all sorts of things going around. When people are this over-burdened, it’s easy to get frustrated and cranky and just DONE with everything. Tonight we’re continuing our look at Romans and this week is really talking about sin. Sin is one of those words that we toss around a lot and most of us have a pretty good general idea of what it means. How does it affect our life every day? Does it? What does that mean in the life of a college student? Is it a word that people still use? What does it mean in our relationship with God? What it means to me this week is that we serve a God who gives us strength when we need it. And perseverance and hope and rest and grace and love. I’m also reminded that none of us are defined simply in that one narrow way, but we are defined by the whole of who we are in Christ – which is smart, kind, beautiful, whole. Golly Romans makes me theologize in a different way. Bottom line – hope you have a great week leading up to fall break! If you’re sick, I hope you feel better soon. If you’re tired, I hope you get the rest you need even in the midst. If you’re frustrated, I hope that you find ways to let that frustration out and that you find that release. If you’re totally counting down the days to the break, I hope it’s as amazing as you’ve hoped it would be. If you’re feeling pretty blah at this point, I hope that you make it through the next couple of days getting done everything that you need to get done, and that you come back with renewed enthusiasm and passion. My hope for you is that no matter what you’re doing this week or what you’re facing, you know that God is with you every step of the way.
September 29, 2011
One of the verses in the Upper Room email devotional today was Matthew 11:28 which says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” It’s always hit or miss when sending these out because some students have had an awesome week and it feels like everything’s coming together while others have had a really difficult week and have felt the weight of the world’s challenges on them. At some point in the semester though, all of us may relate and sometimes even resemble this verse – weary and burdened people with to do lists that never seem to get completed and all sorts of other things we’d rather be doing. We know someone though that can give us that rest, peace, strength, grace, perseverance, wisdom and release that we need. If you’ve been pulling some all nighters or if worries about school or friends or family or work or money have been keeping you up, know that there is One who wants to give us peace that transcends all understanding. We’re also called to share that message with the world. I’m not saying we bash people over their heads with it or that we’re patronizing, but that we share the Living Water that has been provided to each of us with the whole world in big and small ways. Sometimes we’re refreshed by talking to a close friend or one of our parents, sometimes it’s walking outside, sometimes it’s reading our Bibles or a good book, sometimes it’s putting our faith in action through service…whatever it takes for you to know that you can come to God with all of your weariness and burdens…know it. Whatever it takes to give you that extra boost or that extra re-charging, seek ways to add those to your life. Blessings on each of you in the ending of this week and for a great and restorative weekend!
September 1, 2011
So what is the Wesley Weekly? The Wesley Weekly is a weekly newsletter of sorts that is sent out to give a short reflection-ish thing, a weekly schedule and upcoming events at Winthrop Wesley. We also use it to post job postings for students that people have sent us and for any other kind of announcement. It will come out every Monday and nope, we won’t spam you at other times.
“If you see some brother or sister in need and have the means to do something about it but turn a cold shoulder and do nothing, what happens to God’s love? It disappears. And you made it disappear. My dear children, let’s not just talk about love; let’s practice real love.”
- 1 John 3:17-18 The Message
wesley is for lovers.
=0), Narcie
April 28, 2010
Hope everyone has a great exam week! Head over to Wesley tonight if you want a break. Below is the benediction we gave seniors on Sunday – may it be for each of us!
Commencement Benediction
Go now and may passion inspire you,
May injustice trouble you,
May hope comfort you,
May friendship, old and new, nourish you,
May you laugh aloud and be refreshed,
May you breathe freely and without fear,
May you be given strength, wisdom, and rest in your times of need,
May peace surround you and wash over you,
May love permeate you and nurture you,
May a sense of grace and gratitude overwhelm you.
O, the places you will go.
Grace and Peace, Narcie =0)
April 21, 2010
I honestly can’t believe we’re in the last week of class. I think I’ve been in denial or things have just been too busy and this has snuck up on me. If you are in the heat of crunch time right now – facebook tells me – you’re not alone! There are loads of projects, papers, tests, and the like due this week. If you want to take a break for some good food and some fun in the sun – tonight is our fellowship program which is all about relaxing, enjoying, and breathing! I just got Amy Grant’s new CD (yes I know that she is an oldie but a goodie) and there’s a song called “Overnight” with her daughter Sarah. Maybe it’s just me but I think it speaks to all of us – seniors, young adults, college students, young, old, all those yearning for something else, the next step, a place to attain. The words are below but the music and words are on youtube here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Gm1lVWXwEs. May you get to the other side of assignment land/exam time and believe and try to do that to the best of your ability! Prayers for peace, strength, determination, perseverance, tenacity, and mad study skills!
Grace and Peace, Narcie =0)
Overnight
(written by Natalie Hemby, Luke Leird, Audrey Spillman, and Amy Grant)
So, you’ve handed in your resignation,
contemplatin’ why nothin’ turns out right.
A little fed up with all the disappointments,
so what’s the point in wastin’ any time?
It’s only temporary, so what’s your hurry?
No need to worry. Don’t you know that,
(chorus)
If it all just happened overnight,
you wouldn’t know how much it means?
If it all just happened overnight,
you would never learn to believe
in what you cannot see,
what you cannot see.
I feel like pace is at a standstill.
Do I wait till it falls into my hands?
A long highway ahead, gettin’ started.
Steady hearted, is what I think I am.
There’s somethin’ to be said for experience.
Who knows what’s ahead. Keep on goin’.
Chorus
(Take it a day, a day at a time)
One foot in front of the other,
(Take it a day, a day at a time)
No need to hurry, hurry.
(Take it a day, a day at a time)
It won’t happen over night.
It won’t happen over night.
Have a little faith,
(Have a little faith)
Must appreciate,
(Must appreciate)
Every single day,
Don’t give up, no.
April 14, 2010
Yesterday was a beautiful sunny day! Students bagged 41,000 pounds of potatoes at the Potato Drop and made sure that agencies all over York County and surrounding areas had beautiful huge potatoes to give out to their people. It was amazing to see! Yesterday afternoon many of us celebrated the beginning of a scholarship for the Peace Studies Minor in honor of Father David Valtierra. Father David was one of my campus ministers while I was a student at Winthrop. At the time Wesley was an ecumenical ministry called Wesley-Newman-Westminster and we were United Methodist, Catholic and Presbyterian USA. I remember clearly Father David’s dry humor, unwavering strength and dedication to justice, and his wonderful way with students – answering a question with a question and always giving you more to think about. Below is a prayer of St. Francis of Assissi that was read yesterday. It exemplifies who he is and as he continues facing a long battle with cancer – I’ve never seen someone so at peace with such a full life. Hope to see y’all tonight for the continuation of Hunger Week. May we each seek justice and truth any chance we get and grasp hold of these opportunities with all our might!
Grace and Peace, Narcie =0)
Prayer of St. Francis
Lord, make me an instrument of Thy peace;
Where there is hatred, let me sow charity;
Where there is injury, pardon;
Where there is error, the truth;
Where there is doubt, the faith;
Where there is despair, hope;
Where there is darkness, light; and
Where there is sadness, joy.
O, Divine Master,
Grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled, as to console;
To be understood as to understand;
To be loved as to love;
For it is in giving that we receive;
It is in pardoning that we are pardoned;
And it is in dying to ourselves that we are born to eternal life. Amen.
April 7, 2010
As I’m writing this Erica is cleaning out the Wesley clothing closet for our yard sale on Saturday. I guess it is true that one person’s trash is another person’s treasure. At least I hope so. It’s good that some of the old stuff we keep around will be useful and “new” to someone else. There’s new life blooming and budding and throwing yellow “resurrection dust” all over the place right now. I don’t think my car is going to make it much longer without some rain. May we ever remember that God makes all things new – our shirt that we can’t fit into anymore being given to someone who needs it, the dead trees of winter springing forth to new life, a relationship we thought was dead being set free by forgiveness and peace. Next week we’ll be celebrating Hunger Week at Winthrop – it’s going to be jammed pack. May new life of witness and advocacy and justice and hope and transformation spring forth through these days! Hope to see you soon!
Grace and Peace, Narcie =0)
March 31, 2010
I admit that there’s something that always bothers me about Sundays that jump straight from Palm Sunday to Easter. I love watching the kids swing the palm branches shouting Hosanna and who doesn’t like a good Easter service with the lillies and the triumphant resurrection story. It’s awesome. But there’s a lot of folks that skip right over Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, don’t remember that after Jesus rode in, kicked money changers out of the temple and as always stood up for justice even in the midst of his impending death. The CDCA where we visit when we’re in Nicaragua wrote something yesterday that was really powerful to me – that Good Friday is the day most remember and celebrate in Nica. They wrote that the people “understand the suffering and death of Jesus so much more than the hope of Easter.” Yes, Easter is there for each of us, but for some it is hard to imagine. Yesterday morning some students and I met with Congressman John Spratt as part of the ONE campaign to encourage him as the Chairman of the budget committee to fund international aid and to let him know that there are people behind him who advocate and lift up the voice of the poor amongst us in our communities, country, and greater world. It was a good meeting. It was nice to see people from different walks of life, age, race, gender, religious ideology and political party coming together to combat injustice. Easter is coming and yes we as Christians are Easter people, but we must not forget the suffering that is also apparent in our world and that our Saviour was not one who came for the wealthy, nice looking, high GPA folks – he came for each of us. May you remember either by going to a service or in your own way – the steps of Holy Week – Maundy Thursday in the sharing of the Last Supper, Good Friday and the stations of the cross, and the joy and promise to each of us of Easter. Blessings on your journey!
Grace and Peace, Narcie =0)
March 24, 2010
I hope everyone had a good and restful Spring Break! Wow – what a beautiful day. These are the days when you want to scratch your to-do list and go outside and just enjoy. As y’all know, Wesley took a trip to the Bahamas last week and I can’t say enough how amazing of a trip it was. There were some things that were eye-opening like a single roll of blue painter’s tape for $13.75 (that’s US or Bahamian dollars people) or the gigantic waves that the group faced at Hidden Beach or the radical hospitality of the Bahamian people as we worshiped, studied, worked, and ate with them. There are many things I take away from this trip, but one that stands out is that we can’t put off til tomorrow the things that we really want and crave in our life. If we want more peace and quiet and rest, we’ve got to make that happen. No one’s going to do that for us. There’s a mindful and present way of being in the world that brings a contentment and peace that does transcend all understanding. We can’t wait for New Year’s or Lent or next year to make simple and sometimes radical changes in our worlds. If all we do is talk about something and consistently do the complete opposite than no matter how “busy” or “whatever” we are, we’re hypocrites. We can’t control the other people or cars or roomates or family members or weather around us but we can sure as heck try to reign in our attitudes and be thankful for the many gifts we’ve been given. Thank you Creator God for this beautiful day and the freedom to see things new and fresh during these last Lenten days.
Grace and Peace, Narcie =0)
March 10, 2010
Blessings to each of you as you finish up midterms and safe travels as you enjoy your break! Below is a blessing that I love – can’t remember where I got it. You know how that is!
“Prayer is one of the best gifts we receive. May today there be peace within. May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith. May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given toyou. May you be content knowing you are a child of God. Let God’s presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. It is there for each and everyone of us.”
May you get rest this break and may you refuel your mind, body, and spirit as we go into the second half of the semester!
Grace and Peace, Narcie =0)
March 3, 2010
So I’m one of those people that talk in my sleep. Generally that’s not a big deal. You may hear me on a retreat or a mission trip but poor Mike is the one that is bothered. This morning he asked if I’m stressed right now. Well, duh. Who’s not? Apparently I talked in my sleep four times last night. Ugh. From what I hear from some of you – many of you are stressed right now too with job searches, graduation looming, midterms in full swing, papers due after spring break, questions of where you’re going to live next year – all swirling in your minds. Have you ever looked up the definition of stress? Check out the lovely wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stress_(medicine). Hmmm….”failure to respond appropriately to emotional or physical threats, whether actual or imagined.” So how do we respond “appropriately”? How do we keep our sanity? How do we react when we’re maxed out? Do you go to a quiet place and meditate or do breathing exercises? Do you go to the West Center and clear your head? Do you talk it out in a journal or with a close friend or loved one? Do you take time to settle your heart and pray about it? To be completely honest I’m much more likely to grab some chocolate and escape watching Lost or cruising through facebook. I don’t know how much those things actually help me to respond to stress though. As we continue our Lenten journey, as we look at our mounting to do lists – may we take time each day to center ourselves and realize we don’t have to have everything all together at all times. Let’s give ourselves some grace and may the peace of God that transcends all of our stress be felt within us this day!
Grace and Peace, Narcie =0)
February 24, 2010
We are one week into Lent and 2 and a half weeks away from Spring Break. Wow to both of them! Have you ever eaten something really sweet like a delicious cake from Pat-a-cakes Bakery only to find that you absolutely have to have something salty? The sweetness is amazingly wonderful and you want to savor it but the salty like a good bag of potato chips goes so well with the sweet that you just can’t shake the craving. So many folks make Lent all about themselves – what they’re giving up or adding or what a good devout person they are. It’s a wonderful thing to focus on the inward and to keep growing and tweaking – but if it’s not paired with outward – the salt of life – it doesn’t matter how “sweet” your core is. A clergy friend of mine posted as his facebook status earlier in the week “It’s called Lent – perhaps we should remember to return what we have borrowed.” I’ve been thinking about this all week – how do we return what we’ve borrowed? How do we give back in authentic and tangible ways? How are we both salt and light in the world? As we do the whole Lent thing – let’s not just look in our belly buttons to our own needs/wants/desires/neuroses, let’s also add a little flavor to our world by being that change we wish to see. Looking for an easy-going, relaxing and introspective night – check out Tom Conlon tonight in concert at Wesley. You don’t want to miss it!
Grace and Peace, Narcie =0)
February 17, 2010
Today is Ash Wednesday in the life of the church. There’s a great article on Relevant about Ash Wednesday here http://www.relevantmagazine.com/god/deeper-walk/features/20533-the-many-lessons-of-ash-wednesday. To be honest I don’t remember celebrating Ash Wednesday growing up. I know we probably did. There was also some church service to go to and burn something or eat something or sing about something. As a college student and seminary student I began to find Ash Wednesday and our church calendar more fascinating. For me Ash Wednesday in some ways became the catch all for all of the New Year’s resolutions that I didn’t keep or like this year, that I never made in the first place. This is a day where we can recognize and know that we don’t have it all together; that we don’t do the right things every day; that we mess up and screw up and overall do a pretty sucktacular job at living the life of a disciple a lot of the time. For me – I don’t think we need more beating ourselves up and certainly not more self help books out there about all that we can accomplish all by ourselves. I do think it’s helpful and healthy and freeing to know that we don’t have to have it all juggled and figured out every day and it’s nice to actually take time in the midst of being pulled in so many different directions for some silence, for some self-reflection, for some room for growth and a whole lot of God. Whether you are giving something up for Lent or whether you’re adding something to your life, may it be to draw closer to God and to live the life of a disciple more truly and freely. May we not get “smudged” on Ash Wednesday just to wash it off and do the same things tomorrow. What a waste that will be. May we open ourselves up to this season of preparation and awaken our souls to the things that matter. What is that for you? What stands in the way of that? Let’s keep the conversation going…
Grace and Peace, Narcie =0)
February 10, 2010
Blow wind blow! Wow – that wind is no joke out there. Don’t bother brushing hair today. Praise God for the sunshine! I love the rain but boy am I sick of the gray days. Looking out the window of my office it’s perfect – beautiful sunshine and blue skies and I can watch the wind blow the trees but not have to be knocked down by it. It’s a magnificent thing watching the wind blow these great big trees to and fro. I think about driving down the interstate in strong wind and how your car can’t help but be affected by that great force. I think it’s easy to get set in our ways and complacent in life. Wow, that’s a general statement. In all seriousness though – I think it’s easy to get bogged down and just pushing towards the end of semester or the end of student teaching or the end of our internship or the end of our college career and get so deep and stuck in a rut that we don’t let the spirit move over us in fresh ways. But if the solid trees and the sturdy cars can be blown around than us little folks will certainly be. I really do love the wind. I like the idea of the Holy Spirit blowing over each of us igniting and inspiring, calling us forth to new life and new beginnings, moving us in directions we never thought possible. May we each be moved out of comfort zones and the humdrum of life to grab onto the force around us and within us, may we be blown far and fast to meet the call for justice and righteousness that echoes in our heads and hearts each day, and may we feel this mighty wind lifting us up and covering us with grace!
Grace and Peace, Narcie =0)
February 3, 2010
Tonight we’re talking about leading a life of balance and in some ways I think I may be the worst person in the world to talk about this. The lovely wikipedia site has over different definitions of balance but the one that caught my attention is the one related to metaphysics “a desirable point between two or more opposite forces.” We’ve heard the phrase that we need to live balanced lives, but what does that mean? What are those opposite forces – rest and exhaustion, fulfillment and emptiness, life and death, pease and stress, workaholic and laziness? We all know that we can’t watch all 6 seasons of LOST in one sitting or stay on Farmville all day or sleep in and get pedicures all the time. But we also can’t run ourselves ragged meeting to meeting to work to studying to meeting to crash and burn either. Where is the balance? And what in the heck does God have to do with it anyway? Living a life of balance shouldn’t be as precarious as tightrope walking and it shouldn’t be something that’s so easy that we’re always compromising on it either. Think about it. Where is the balance of our lives? Who cultivates that? Continue the conversation with us tonight at Wesley. Also a quick heads up about a new thing at Wesley – Pasta Night – Mondays from 5 – 7 pm. Anyone can come – there’s no program – it’s just food, love and hospitality. Hope to see you and your friends there!
Grace and Peace, Narcie =0)
January 27, 2010
Anybody remember that old country song that says “I’m in a hurry to get things done, oh I’m rushing, rushing, til life’s no fun….” Any of you ever feel like that? I know that some of you are in the first weeks of your internships and student teaching and others of you are gearing up for first assignments and first tests. In the midst of the ever-growing to do lists and the sometimes all encompassing procrastination that follows, let’s take time to enjoy the simple things – a beautiful sunny day, a call or email from someone you really care about, a good candy bar or home-cooked dinner, a rare night when you can just relax. We’re given opportunities each day to share and grow and learn and dream and discover. May we not wait til “later” to enjoy life, but may we embrace all that it has to offer us right now. Tonight we’ll be having some delicious food from Woodland UMC and we’ll be getting to know one another better – come take a moment to relax, eat some good food, and have an amazing time. Take time for yourself to breathe!
Grace and Peace, Narcie =0)
January 21, 2010
So this past week I’ve been at a Coordinating Committee meeting for the United Methodist Campus Ministry Association. Wow. We have worked hard – drafting a new mission, vision, and a strategic direction with action items. We are exhausted at this point and the cupcakes that we just ate from GiGi’s across the street don’t have nearly enough sugar to keep us snapping on all cylinders at this point in the day. It is important to name our mission and to dream our vision. If our missionas the church is to “Make disciples of Christ for the transformation of the world,” what would be our strategic direction and action items? How are we making disciples? How are we tranforming the world as Christ followers? Especially in the wake of the ongoing devastation in Haiti – what are the practical ways in which we live out our faith and back up all of the “stuff” we say we believe in? These are all important and potentially life-changing questions with which to wrestle. A huge thanks to all those who last night created UMCOR Health Kits that will be sent to Haiti. For those still interested in creating them – the list of what is needed is below. We will send the kits off Thursday of next week. There are also three other opportunities for you. Two are summer or year-long opportunities – a Bread for the World internship and Project Transformation – as well as the possibility to go to Haiti and serve. Attached to this email is a letter from Wesley asking for a 20 passenger mini-bus on behalf of the CDCA in Nicaragua. If you know anyone that may have a bus, has bus connections, or if you have any ideas on making this happen please do contact us! If we are going to make disciples for the transformation of the world we’ve got to be actively engaging in the work of Christ in all the ways we can, by all the means we can, all the days we can. Love, hope, and justice to each of you!
Grace and Peace, Narcie =0)
January 13, 2010
Wow – I cannot believe the semester has begun! Where was the break? There are many thoughts swirling from semester planning and the Wesley schedule attached to our new interns Jonathan and Megan – wohoo and new student assistants Adrienne and Leanna and I can’t shake thoughts of Haiti. I was in a lectionary group yesterday with some local pastors and we were talking about upcoming texts and how they relate to our world and economic crisis. We started getting into a dialogue about ownership. I don’t always necessarily like ownership language because I think it takes a lot out of community and carries so many connotations related to mortgages and borrowing and money and power. Somehow we ended up at the statement of God owns everything. Hmmm….I do believe that everything is God’s. Duh. But I don’t see God walking around saying – “That’s mine, that’s mine, that’s mine….I own this and that.” That just doesn’t seem quite fitting. We are all children of God and God has called us each by name – amen. We also remember the scriptures that all good things come from God. My thing is that whatever we may “own” or not, we all have a part to play and a hand to lend and a coat to offer in the body of Christ. It doesn’t matter if we have enough or plenty or if we’re really struggling – we have to look at our fellow humanity and lend a hand when needed. That goes for those falling on hard times in our shelters and food banks, those in our churches and classes, and those across the waters in Haiti. You know the saying – for whom much is given, much is expected and I think there’s something to that. For those who have been richly blessed, may we then give what we can to others always. This semester at Wesley we’re going to be looking at who we are and where we are and what we’re called to do. It sounds pretty basic and elementary and it is, but my heart says that these simple commands are life changing as well. Pray for our community. Pray for those in Haiti. Pray for one another. Hope to see you tonight! Welcome back!
Grace and Peace, Narcie =0)
December 9, 2009
Blessings on your exams! May God give you strength, focus, perseverance, motivation, and energy. Have a wonderful holiday and safe travels for each of you! If you’re looking for an exam break tonight – check out our Wesley Christmas Party. It starts at 6 pm and we’ll have some good food, dessert, songs, and a Christmas gift exchange! We have some extra gifts if you haven’t gotten one and still want to come! See you tonight!
Grace and Peace, Narcie =0)
December 2, 2010
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas. Our stores and radios have looked and sounded a lot like Christmas for some time now. Whether you’re one of the uber-Christmas people who already have their lists checked twice and decorated long ago or if you’re just starting to listen to and enjoy your favorite Christmas music—this special season is now here in full force! As we all frantically begin the final countdown of the semester with final papers and projects and exams looming, there are great connections to the season of Advent. The word advent comes from the Latin verb advenire, which means “to come toward, to draw near, to approach.” We remember during this time that God, Emmanuel, has drawn near to each of us and we wait for the kingdom of God to be fulfilled in all the earth. May God draw near to each of us during this Advent. May God give each of you gifts of perseverance, strength, focus, and motivation to finish out the semester. May God bless each of us during this season with a sense of expectation and wonder that all of the consumer-driven hype be drowned out and that we may be unexpectedly surprised by a Savior who breaks forth into our lives daily. May we be prepared not just for a cute little baby Jesus a la Talladega Nights, but may the Redeemer of all the world sow justice and righteousness in each of our hearts this day!
Grace and Peace, Narcie =0)
November 18, 2009
Any time we do anything around here food is involved. It’s one of those things that’s a given. Tonight is the one exception during the year. One of the Wesley student’s facebook status “looking forward to the Hunger Vigil with Wesley tonight, but doesn’t really enjoy fasting! I guess it’s like sleeping outside in a box – something you do, once a year, to stand in solidarity with those who do it every day. For that, it’s worth it.” There are all sorts of spiritual awakenings having to do with fasting, but it’s not something that people necessarily enjoy. All of us crave sustenance of some sort. This time of year as we look forward to Thanksgiving break and as we think about where the semester has gone, let us be thankful for all of the many blessings we have been given. Let us not take for granted the blessing of a roof in the rain, a warm comforter in the cold, and a hershey bar when you need that extra pick me up. Let us not take for granted the gift that is learning, the privilege of being at a wonderful university, the awesome adventure of friends and all that is college life. Tonight you won’t find the typical home-cooked meal at Wesley but hopefully you still will be fed. Blessings and thanksgivings for you!
Grace and Peace, Narcie =0)
November 11, 2009
Rain, rain, go away…. Some of us love rain! Others of us just want to stay in bed when it looks like this outside. I don’t mind it for the most part because I know we need it, but having to walk in it in the cold just makes me want to get some hot cocoa and sit around a nice, warm fire! So tonight in the midst of the push for the final crunch in academia land we’re going to have a mini-devotion and some games around the fire as we drink hot cocoa and make some s’mores. If you’ve never been to Wesley before because it’s been a hectic semester and you just never fit it in – tonight would be a great, low-key night to get to know some folks and have a good time. All of us need a break some times and in the midst of flu/allergy/yuck season, you’ve got to take care of yourself, especially when assignments and studying are calling and you’ve been procrastinating. Get your work done. But don’t forget to breathe, connect with the ones you love, go to your happy place, and feed your soul! Blessings on all of you!! As always let us know if you need anything.
Grace and Peace, Narcie =0)
November 4, 2009
Can you believe that you only have a month and a half of classes left this semester? And that doesn’t even factor in Thanksgiving break, study day, and exams…..WOW! For some that is welcome and exciting news. For many I’ve seen this week though it seems that with the end in sight also comes a whole host of papers, projects, and looming deadlines. If you find yourself already pretty busy, keep plugging away – you can do it! If this is your down time before the final push – get started early as much as possible so that you’re not pulling your hair out in the end. Tonight at Wesley Gretchen Baldwin will be joining us – Gretchen brings a peaceful, open, and stress-free presence and is a great listener! As crunch time starts to loom, take time to rest, re-charge, and center yourself as much as possible so that when the whirlwind reaches lift off – you’re grounded and ready to ride it out. This week’s reading in our freshman group had this quote from Donald Miller, “I think a person who is lonely should dig into a community, give herslef to a community, humble himself before his friends, initiate community, teach people to care for each other, love each other. Jesus does not want us floating through space or sitting in front of our televisions. Jesus wants us interacting, eating together, laughing together, praying together.” No matter where you are on this crazy college journey, our community invites you to join us for the ride!
Grace and Peace, Narcie =0)
October 21, 2009
What a beautiful afternoon! This is what I like about the Fall – not just the beautiful leaves but this gorgeous weather before winter and turtlenecks and after shorts and sunscreen. Hope each of you had a restful and amazing fall break and that you’ve jumped back in ready to go! All day I keep thinking about hearing Donald Miller last night at Charlotte ONE and the challenge he offered each of us about writing our story filled with risk, possibility, beauty and meaning. It’s really easy somtimes to float along and life come to us but harder to be proactive and step out when we don’t know what the outcome will be. A chance to step out this weekend – the York County CROP Walk. Registration will begin at 2, the African Drum Ensemble will begin playing at 2:40, and the walk will begin at 3 pm. With such a big event, as with our lives, it’s easy to get lost in the details and logistics and to forget about what we’re really doing – walking in solidarity with people who have to walk each day for food and water. We’re walking alongside fifth grade girls in developing countries who have spent a third of their lives walking for water. We’re walking for folks right here in York County who at the end of the month when pay checks have run out have no idea what they’re going to feed their children much less themselves. We’re walking because hunger is something that could be solved in our lifetime. Do we believe that could happen? Is that part of our greater story? Or do we list all of the arguments on why it can’t? Let’s step out in faith for one afternoon and say that this is a world of possibilities especially when people of faith stand up and claim their stories of hope and liberation.
Grace and Peace, Narcie =0)
October 14, 2009
It’s almost the break. You are so close to this mini-finish line. On this rainy day I’m divided on what to write to you. The first is that there is an awesome cultural event tonight sponsored by Wesley and Career & Civic Engagement at 7 pm in Tillman Auditorium. This short interactive hunger talk and demonstration will be both very cool and informative and will let you know more about CROP walk which changes lives every day. Come on out and brave the drizzle – you won’t be disappointed! The second thing I’ve been contemplating started several weeks ago when I married two Winthrop alum. I was talking about keeping a record of wrongs and all of that lovely coupley stuff and I think some of us don’t have much of a problem with keeping a record of wrongs but maybe it’s that we too often keep a record of “rights.” Whether it’s in our personal relationships – I’m not going to talk to my friend from high school/annoying roomate/sister/parent/best friend/significant other and say I’m sorry or give them any slack because I’ve done blank, blank, blank. I’ve been a great ______ to them and there’s no reason for them to be mad at me. (insert holier than thou/surprise/shock voice) If we’re only concerned with how “right” we are and how “wrong” they are – where in the world does that get us except alone and highly pleased with ourselves? Or if we don’t take a step out of our comfort zone to continuously challenge ourselves to be followers of Christ because we’re already going to Salkehatchie every summer, trying to recycle in our residence hall, or going to church most Sundays – if we just rest on the things that we’re doing because they’re “right” and should be “enough” to cross off our list….what does that say about our faith or how we view God? Lots of questions to ponder on this rainy day. Lots of rationalizations and justifications we (I) make every day to end up doing what we (I) want to do instead of doing that whole Jesus thing – putting others before self, turning the other cheek, siding always with the poor, slighted and oppressed, speaking the truth in love, giving grace instead of pointing out how perfect we are… Have a good couple of days before break! Give yourself some grace as you finish things up and have a good, restful, productive, amazing break!!
Grace and Peace, Narcie =0)
October 7, 2009
This past Sunday night some of us traveled up to Charlotte, NC to hear author Shane Claiborne speak. It was a wonderful word on being good stewards of God’s creation, making a difference in your context, and really living out what we say as disciples of this crazy Jesus guy. Shane lives in an intentional community in Philadelphia and this is what he writes about this life, “We hang out with kids and help them with homework in our living room, and jump in open fire hydrants on hot summer days. We share food with folks who need it, and eat beans and rice our neighbor Ms. Sunshine makes for us. Folks drop in all day to say hi, have a safe place to cry, or get some water or a blanket. Sometimes we turn people away, or play Rock, Paper, Scissors to see who answers the door on tired days. We run a community store out of our house. We call it the Gathering, and neighbors can come in and fill a grocery bag with clothes for a dollar or find a couch, a bed, or a refrigerator. Sometimes people donate beautiful things for us to share with our neighbors; other times they donate their used toothbrushes….We try to make the world safe, knowing that the world will never be safe as long as millions live in poverty so the few can live as they wish. We believe in another way of life–the kingdom of God–which stands in oppositionn to the principalities, powers and rulers of this dark world (Eph. 6:12).” Wow. I don’t know about you but I’m challenged every day to try to live out my faith in concrete ways. Sometimes that’s sharing a kind word, sometimes that’s turning off a light that nobody’s using, sometimes that’s figuring out how we could compost or turn our waste into something useful at Wesley or the Wesley House, sometimes that’s thinking about taking some much-needed sabbath time. Many of us have heard the old Franciscan slogan, “Preach the gospel always. And when necessary, use words.” Sometimes though it’s a challenge. Tonight Rev. Horace White is going to tell us about volunteering at HOPE which is right down the street from Winthrop. Come listen, get some good food, and help us try to figure out what it means to try to proclaim the gospel with our lives.
Grace and Peace, Narcie =0)
September 30, 2009
For some reason it seems that a lot of people are swamped this week. At our small groups and in my talks with students it seems like to do lists are expanding and demands on time are coming full force. It’s hard to balance all of the practical and necessary of the academy while also enjoying and flourishing all of the other wonderful aspects of college life – late night chats, fun convo over pizza, doing something spastic and spontaneous just because, talking about “stuff” that really matters and that you feel passionately about all the way to your toes. In the midst of these weeks leading up to midterms and in the rhythm of tests, papers, projects, and assignments that characterizes all of college life, make sure that you take some time to breathe, get some peace and quiet, a good night’s sleep every now and then, and a little retreat from all of the hustle and bustle. Don’t worry if you totally blitzed on that first test or quiz or homework assignment – you can pull it up, study harder or more wisely, and ask for help. Don’t freak if you get a paper back and for the first time in your life you got a C. It happens. Doing your best is important and you know what that is. Also realize that your grades don’t define all of who you are and that sometimes you need to take a break from the pressures of parents, teachers, family, friends, RA’s, and roomates and regroup, take a breath, yell if you need to, and laugh – out loud and do something that refreshes your soul! God is with you each step of the way – in the cramming, in the frantic paper writing when it’s due in 10 minutes, in the lack of sleep daze and also in the awesome random connections you make in the elevator, the class where you finally figure out what you want to do the rest of your life, the amazingly tight-knit friendships and community that are formed in the most random of ways. Blessings to you in these days of midterms! Hope to see you tonight!
=0), Narcie
“But nothing important, or meaningful, or beautiful, or interesting, or great, ever came out of imitations. What is really hard, and really amazing, is giving up on being perfect and beginning the world of becoming yourself…Perfection is static, even boring. Your unvarnished self is what is wanted.” — Anna Quindlen
September 23, 2009
Earlier this week 14 of us traveled to Clemson University to meet with their Wesley Foundation. It was great to meet some new folks, see how another Wesley gathers in fellowship, and to have a good old-fashioned road trip. The topic of the night was the beginning of a 7 week series for them on the 7 Deadly Sins and the 7 Christian Virtues. The series began with a discussion of pride. Pride and people’s hang ups with pride are prevalent in our society. It’s hard to think of an area where I struggle or where I see others struggle that doesn’t end up pointing to pride. Sometimes we don’t think certain things apply to us or that we’re above them. Other times we just see the faults of those around us and not those of our own making. Frequently when I do pre-marital counseling I talk about the whole not keeping records of wrong thing. And boy is that a tough one to follow. But as I have been thinking about this topic of pride all week, I’ve also started to think about the problems that come with keeping a record of “rights” as well. I must be “right” because I’ve done this, this, and this, and that person has only done this. I must be “right” because I get up to go to church on Sunday and my roomate does ______. Whether it’s a record of wrongs of the other or a record of rights of ourselves, either way if we’re using it to judge or bash or skirt the blame – it’s pride. And selfish pride certainly doesn’t build community or help the flow of God’s spirit in each of our lives. Pride in and of itself isn’t bad if it comes with thanksgiving and grace knowing that every good thing comes from God, but when it is used to look down on others – we’ve got some real work to do. Is that a total ramble? Could be. But I trust that God doesn’t leave us where we are in the mud and the muck but that we keep moving forward, growing, changing, contemplating, tweeking, and becoming the person we were created to be. Thankfully God’s not finished with us yet.
=0), Narcie
September 16, 2009
Can you believe we’re already in the midst of the fourth week? For some now’s about the time when things start to get interesting – you may need to do some laundry, your roomate may have started to get on your nerves, you may have gotten back some of the grades for those first tests and papers, you may have started to really miss Mom’s cooking. Others of you may have started to feel that you are in your element – life is good, people are good, classes are good, college is a blast. Still some may be a little in between. Tonight at Wesley we’re talking about what it means to be community. It’s easy at times to think that we can stand alone, that we can keep pushing through the next challenge all by ourselves, that “it” is completely up to us, about us, and only relevant to us. Sadly, if we have that mindset, we go through life missing out on this beautiful thing called community life. It’s all about relationship. Some of us learn that lesson the hard way and some of us know this to be true and cling to it. It’s not always the classes or the facts and figures or the resume builders that you remember, but those who have taken this journey with you. Those who have chosen to step out of their comfort zones to be in relationship with you. It’s all about relationship. Need a break or want some home-cooked food or want to meet some pretty cool people tonight? See you at Wesley!
=0), Narcie
September 9, 2009
Is anyone else wishing that it was Friday? What is it about weeks when you don’t get Labor Day off, it’s a rainy day, and you’re already tired and the semester just started? Facebook statuses are a pretty good indicator of where people are these days and it’s good to comiserate with those who share your gripes and to laugh and celebrate people’s joys, accomplishments, and random tidbits of wisdom. What is community? Well, it’s a lot of things for a lot of people. One thing I know though is that it’s there to keep us going. It’s hard to plant your feet and stay resolved to your little corner of the world, if you’re really in community with folks. You can’t be in relationship and not be changed in some fashion. I’m not talking about changing like the wind or trying to be all things for all people, but what I’m saying is that knowing, dialoguing and spending “life” with people opens your eyes to ideas, opinions, and viewpoints that might not have ever crossed your mind. That’s one of the things that I love the MOST about university life. There’s the opportunity for fabulously meaningful interaction that can push and tug and grab you in so many amazing directions that you never would have blinked at before. As debates rage about health care, staying in school, the uber crazy economy, budget cuts, who’s got the best professor on rate your professor, what group on campus is the most popular or not, who cares anyway, what’s the best restaurant in Rock Hill, what does it mean to be a follower of Christ, does that have to look the same way for everyone, what does that mean, who are we and what are we going to do the rest of our lives….let’s all keep asking the questions and wrestling with the questions and hanging out with folks who don’t just agree with us, but who challenge us to love them and their quirky views that we never would have conjured up on our own. Keep the convo going and make those connections! Dare to look ridiculous and enjoy every minute. Love to all of you!
April 15, 2009
It’s hard to be “real” with people all the time. Or at least it’s hard to be real with people and not strangle some of them. Just kidding. Or am I? Community is tough. Gathering any group of people each with their own “junk” that they bring with them and trying to form a family/a church is a crazy proposition. We all have our strengths and weaknesses and tapping into those as a group and offering uplifting encouragment as well as loving honesty -spurring each other on to grow and stretch and be who God created us to be – that’s what true Christian fellowship is. Tonight we’ll celebrate one of the favorite nights of the semester – Josh’s fellowship night. Come on out and join us! If you’ve never been to Wesley before or if you’re looking forward to tonight already – check it out for yourself. All are welcome here. We may not always get it right, but we try to live that out. Hope that you’ll take some time away from the stress of the final crunch to come join us for some fun!
=0), Narcie
April 1, 2009
Happy April Fool’s Day! Sometimes it seems pretty foolish to believe in the cross. It seems pretty foolish to believe in a guy who was both God with us come to earth and a man with all the temptations and frailties – to believe that this man was not just a great teacher and peace activist but is also our savior. It’s pretty crazy that we now dress up this instrument of torture and wear it around our necks and place it on display like a work of art. That is ludicrous! Why do we wear our crosses? What does it all mean? Is it foolish to seek the life of servanthood? Is it foolish to follow a man who asked us to love our enemies, to give away all that we have, to seek to be last in life? Yes - the world says it’s foolish. Heck – we know it’s foolish. But that’s what we’re called to do – be fools for Christ. It’s not a halfway thing…it’s radical and it’s absolutely foolish. But what a wonderful journey it is!
=0), Narcie
January 28, 2009
It seems like a long time til summer – true – but many summer opportunities are gearing up their selection processes and you don’t want to miss out. Some of you will do worthwhile internships or will return to summer jobs from years past. Others of you are looking for something different. Tonight at Wesley Chris Manley will share with you about Camp Collide a summer work camp in the New Orleans area. In March, Nick Jeffries will share with us about Camp Chestnut Ridge, a summer camp in North Carolina. Then there’s Students in Mission or SIM that is through the SC Annual Conference. You serve at a mission site in South Carolina for seven weeks and receive a stipend of $2,000. (For an application, email me.) Each of these and many others like Salkehatchie, Asbury Hills, and many more would make for a fun and meaningful summer! Start discerning where God is leading you!
=0), Narcie
November 12, 2008
It’s a chilly and cloudy day and professors are squeezing in those last couple of tests and papers before Thanksgiving and Finals. Number one – blessings on you for perseverance, strength, tenacity, and anti-procrastination as you keep plugging away. Number 2 – next week is a very special week – Hunger and Homeless Awareness Week. Check out the events listed at http://www.winthrop.edu/cce/vcs/hunger_and_homelessness_week.asp for a complete listing of everything going on. As people of faith we’re called not just to spout off platitudes and offer empty words to a hurting world, we must seek to truly be the body of Christ - God’s kingdom come in a very hurting world. There are many opportunities in the coming week, starting on Saturday, with our trip to Gastonia to really put your faith in action. I invite you to join us!
=0), Narcie
October 22, 2008
Such a busy time of year! Only 6 class weeks left not counting this one. Wow! So did you get some rest over the break? Catch up on school work? For many of you, sadly, the answer is a negatory….but no worries – you can do it – keep pushing through and keep on top of things as best you can. This Sunday is CROPWALK and tonight’s program is about CROP as well and when you think that you’re at your breaking point remember that for most of us we only have to walk a couple of steps for running water - clean, good, healthy water. We only have to go to Thomson or across the street to Dinkins or McDonald’s to have a good meal. For many people all over the world and right here in this community - this is not an option. We walk for them. We raise money to support them. We collect cans to give to our local food pantries so that our neighbors don’t go hungry. Come. Join us. Walk in solidarity with our world community. Sunday afternoon I know where I’ll be and I hope to see you there as well!
=0), Narcie
September 24, 2008
So I was listening to 91.9 this morning and heard a song that I really like – it’s Brandon Heath’s “Give Me Your Eyes.” This semester we’re reading Shane Claiborne’s Irresistible Revolution and you know if we actually lived out the faith we profess we would do more than turn this world upside down and I have a feeling many of our lives would be radically different. This weekend 14 of us are going to Mt. Pleasant, SC to work on houses at the UM Relief Center. Is this was Christ calls us to do? Sure. But in many ways, I think this is a drop in the bucket. We’re supposed to love – our classmates, our suitemates, the poor, the people that get on our nerves, the guy that cut us off in traffic, our great Aunt Jane. We’re also supposed to back this up with our actions – not just be a bunch of posers. Sometimes it’s hard to see where to start - what service or mission or outreach to do and how often we should be doing it and how much we should be giving – what is enough? May God give us the eyes to see. May God give us the hearts to keep going when our mind starts putting up rationalizations and doubts. May God give us the courage to do the uncomfortable and the counter-cultural.
=0), Narcie
September 17, 2008
God offers each of us Deep Peace in the midst of the highs and the lows. Sometimes it’s hard to feel that peace. Sometimes it seems that we’ll never feel it again. Others seem to abide and rest in peace every day even in the storms. At the bottom of this email there is a prayer/benediction that speaks of this deep peace – check it out! May you feel God’s peace – humor – joy – wonder – love – and grace this day and all days!
“Deep peace of the running wave to you, of water flowing, rising and falling, sometimes advancing, sometimes receding. May the stream of your life flow unimpeded! Deep peace of the running wave to you!
Deep peace of the flowing air to you, which fans your face on a sultry day, the air which you breathe deeply, rhythmically, which imparts to you energy, consciousness, life. Deep peace of the flowing air to you!
Deep peace of the quiet earth to you, who, herself unmoving, harbours the movements and facilitates the life of the ten thousand creatures, while resting contented, stable, tranquil. Deep peace of the quiet earth to you!
Deep peace of the shining stars to you, which stays invisible till darkness falls and discloses their pure and shining presence beaming down in compassion on our turning world. Deep peace of the shining stars to you!
Deep peace of the watching shepherds to you, of unpretentious folk who, watching and waiting, spend long hours out on the hillside, expecting in simplicity some Coming of the Lord. Deep peace of the watching shepherds to you!
Deep peace of the Son of Peace to you, who, swift as the wave and pervasive as the air, quiet as the earth and shining like a star, breathes into us God’s Peace and God’s Spirit. Deep peace of the Son of Peace to you!”
- Mary Rogers, adapted from the Gaelic
=0), Narcie
September 3, 2008
The two great commands are to love God and love one another. This we know. But how easy is it to practice that? In community life on a college campus in the midst of classes, residence life, student organizations, and our other social interactions it is sometimes if not often very difficult to practice the “love one another.” You see it doesn’t just say to love your friends or the people you agree with politically or ideologically or your family or your favorite professor – the love one another – is to love all people. All people includes the person down the hall with the funny smell coming out of their room, the girl in class that always has something to say and always knows the right answers, the roomate that leaves the crusty, disgusting dishes in the sink for days on end, or the professor who loves to assign those really long and difficult writing assignments right before fall break. Have you ever heard someone say – “I may love everyone, but I don’t have to like everyone.” I don’t think that necessarily is the sentiment Jesus was looking for but I understand where they are coming from. As we begin this semester (which I hope is off to an amazing start) I pray that we open our eyes to the many ways Jesus calls us to be in relationship with one another, that we challenge ourselves not just to love when it’s easy or comfortable, but also when it feels challenging and awkward, and that the love and light that we exude starts a love revolution! Yes – corny. But yes, true. Hope to see you tonight!
Grace and Peace, Narcie =0)
April 9, 2008
Not many class days left. Papers, presentations, tests are here and are coming. Come to Wesley tonight for a fabulous meal of lasagna and all the fixin’s and a night to sing some songs and praise God. It’s going to be a low-key, relaxed, short-er evening where we get a chance to take time out of this crazy final countdown to come together as community and worship the One who brings us through all of life’s storms – including schoolwork! Hope to see you tonight!
=0), Narcie
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:6-7
March 5, 2008
What a crazy time of year! Some of you are busy writing papers, doing group projects, and studying for mid-terms while others of you are just counting down until Spring Break. As I feel the stress in the air and as I think about this season of Lent, or this time of preparation, I think about all of the many things or junk or burdens or barriers or stresses that we have to breakthrough and leave behind in life. So many times I think we wait for times like New Year’s or even the beginning of Lent, to make a change and start living life anew, when in reality it’s within our reach all the time. Making a change is not easy. Far from it. But if we truly want it to happen and we give it to God to make it happen – it will. Sooner or later with baby steps, faith, and whole lot of support. There are always ways we can live a simpler, healthier, more stress-free life – whether taking more time to relax, not procrastinating so much, talking less junk about people or even not reporting to the world what we’ve “heard,” giving ourselves a break when we’ve had a bad day, or just overall showing ourselves and others grace and love and respect. Maybe I’m preaching to the choir, but I know that I screw up a lot and it’s great to know that I can go to God and begin afresh leaving my pride and stubborness at the door. As we continue through this Lent, let’s keep preparing ourselves for Easter. Let’s get ready for our Risen Lord! (and make it to Spring Break!)
=0), Narcie
February 20, 2008
So in our Girl’s Study we’re reading the book Breaking Free by Beth Moore. As I was reading today one of the verses she cited from scripture really stood out to me.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:6-7
I think these verses are a call and challenge to us to stop our worrying/griping/fear cycle and give it to God in prayer. To for real –> pray. For some reason, prayer seems to be the hardest things for Christians to take time to do, but look what it says it will bring us…..peace. I think we all could use a bit of peace in our lives. Actually – the whole world could. May we seek peace in our own lives, in the lives of our campus community, and in our world.
=0), Narcie
February 6, 2008
So, today’s Ash Wednesday. Some know this as the day after Mardi Gras (or Shrove Tuesday), which is true, and others know it as the beginning of Lent, which is also true. Some people give things up, some people add things to their lives, others don’t really “practice” Lent at all. As a child, I don’t remember ever fully getting the whole Lent thing. As a college student, I learned a bit more about it and I remember giving up M&M McFlurry’s from McDonald’s. Yes, for me, at the time this was a sacrifice, but was it really in the spirit of what Lent is all about??? What most folks remember about Ash Wednesday is the cross of ashes on their forehead. It’s a night where we remember our mortality, or our sinfulness, the excuse that many use “we’re just human.” It points to our need for God and starts the next forty days (Lent=40 days, not including Sundays which are mini-Easters). Where did the whole giving th ings up come from? Well, Christians are supposed to focus on prayer, fasting, and giving to the poor –> all designed to draw them closer to God. The forty days points to Jesus’ time of preparation in the desert before he began his three years of ministry. If Jesus needed time to prepare and center himself in these spiritual disciplines, than certainly we do. This is our time to become more like Christ. How do we do that? For me, I think it’s helpful to both add something to my life and work on something as well. It’s nice to add a spiritual discipline or focus whether it be a daily devotion, daily intentional prayer, fasting on Fridays, collecting money for projects like Heifer or Church World Service, or doing a lenten study or Bible study. It’s also a great time to work on an area in your life – giving up fried foods, soft drinks, bad language, television, facebook, the list could go on. Yes, you’re right if you’re thinking this is a little like a New Year’s resolution, but it’s much more than that – we’re trying to become more like Christ. How do people see Christ? In many, many ways, but one of those ways is through his believers. Take this time to make a change, to add a little spice to your spiritual life, to do the things you’ve been wanting to do, and to listen to God’s voice in how you live your lives every day. Yep, tonight is the night that we, “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return,” but God loves this dust and wants the very best for this dust. Join us tonight at this special service!!!
=0), Narcie
January 30, 2008
Have you ever heard people say that prayer moves mountains??? There are times in our lives where we begin to see that for ourselves. There’s all sorts of research showing the impact prayer has on us mentally, physically, and psychologically. Spiritually prayer is our constant communication with God. The Bible says to pray without ceasing, in other words, that our lives may be lived in such a way that they are a prayer to God. I think of the Steven Curtis Chapman song (that I’ve twice gotten speeding tickets while listening to) “Let us pray, let us pray, everywhere and every way, every moment of the day, it is the right time. Let us pray without end, and when we’re finished start again, like breathing out and breathing in, oh let us pray.” Today we’re going to start praying at the fountain at 3:30 pm. Do I know exactly what shape this is going to take? Not really. Do I know if anyone’s going to show up? Nope. But I know I’ll be there. And I know God will be there. Prayer doesn’t have to be a hard thing or even a well-thought out thing – it says that the Holy Spirit turns even our groans into prayers. Wow! That’s good for those of us who sometimes don’t know what to say or how to say it. We’ll be praying for our campus, for our community, for our nation and for our world – and we all know that each of these places and people need the Spirit of God!!
=0), Narcie
October 24, 2007
This seems like the craziest week that a lot of folks have had so far this semester. So in that, I say, you can do it!! Keep up the good work!! Keep pressing forward towards the end. Blessings on your papers, tests, and catching up with reading and projects! The end is definitely in sight. I also want to say thanks for all of you that helped with our 30th annual CROPWALK this year. It was great to have students working and serving in every aspect of the walk – y’all made it the best one yet! Yay drum ensemble and sign folks and everyone in between!
In this gray day – let us remember that we serve the one who is called the light of the world and one who calls us to bring light to the world. We are the salt and the light even in the midst of papers, exams, highs, lows, and everything in between. Prayers for all of you in the weeks to come and huge prayers for the much-needed rain!
=0), Narcie
October 3, 2007
I hope everyone is having a good Wednesday. It’s finally starting to feel like Fall…at least every now and then. We are busily preparing for CROPwalk here at Wesley. What is CROP? Long story short – it’s through Church World Service and raises money to fight hunger all over the world and right here in our own community. 25% of the money raised stays here in York County going to Pilgrim’s Inn, Meals on Wheels, HOPE in Rock Hill, PATH in York, and CARE in Fort Mill. Last year we raised over $34,000! This year is our 30th anniversary and we have set a goal of raising $40,000!!! The walk in Rock Hill begins right here at Winthrop at Dinkins Student Union. It will be held on October 21st with Entertainment by The Redaction beginning at 1:30 pm on the steps, Registration beginning at 2 pm, the Winthrop Drum Ensemble playing at 2:30 pm and the Walk beginning at 3 pm. The walk is 10 kilometers which is a little over 6 miles and the theme of CROP is “We walk because they walk.” People all over the world have to walk to get food and fresh water every day. Joe Moran, the CWS Carolinas Director, tells the story of a fifth grader he met in Nigeria whose entire day is walking to get water for her family. She doesn’t play. She doesn’t go to school. She walks for water. Every 5 seconds a child dies of hunger and every 7 seconds a child dies because of unclean water. That’s unbelievable! CROP is a way that we can do something to combat this problem both around the world and with our neighbors. I hope you’ll join us as we hear more about this Wednesday, October 17th at Wesley and that you’ll think about walking with us on October 21st. Below is info about how to sign up for our group online. You can also sign up for a sponsor envelope here at Wesley. If your club or organization is interested in participating as well, please let me know! Jesus calls us to be in solidarity with the least of these….we walk because they walk…
=0), Narcie
September 26, 2007
Ever feel overwhelmed? Tonight’s Wesley may be something you want to check out. Gretchen Baldwin of Counseling Services will be leading us in a relaxation exercise and will be talking about stress management. Some of us are best friends with our stress…and that’s not a good thing. Taking moments to center ourselves, relax, and grab some peace is so important, but it’s something that we put at the bottom of our to do lists as a non-necessity. To let our lights shine – we need to be whole people and to be whole people, it helps to be sane people. =0) This means taking care of ourselves whether through peace and quiet or hanging out and venting to a friend or most of all going to God and letting the Spirit work and move in and through us. Below is a prayer by Roberta Porter that was in the latest Alive Now. It speaks to me not only of taking care of myself, but of letting my light shine in the midst of everything… God is good, all the time…
Shine
Holy Spirit, shine
through my weakness,
my self–
so that others might see
a heart of compassion,
a heart for the poor,
a heart willing to give away
the gifts I’ve been given.
And I pray
any light shining
will reflect back to you.
Amen.
=0), Narcie
September 5, 2007
Are you getting into the groove now? Finding that routine? In the midst of the routine, don’t forget to take time for rest and Sabbath. Too often we get stuck in the busy mode whether actually doing our schoolwork, or staying busy with clubs/orgs, work, friends/family or even facebook. Taking time for yourself to recharge your batteries is incredibly important in maintaining your physical, mental and spiritual health. Take a walk outside (when it gets a little cooler), go out to Winthrop Lake, read a book for fun (or a magazine), dig in to God’s word, call or email an old friend, take a nice long nap, breathe deeply and meditate, pray/talk with God, treat yourself to your favorite candy, snack, or meal…whatever you do to center yourself. Know that in the midst of the busy-ness, worries, and all of the thoughts running around in your head, God is with you and you can talk to God any time! If you need a place to relax and get away from it all, know that Wesley is open for you any time. The tv/play station, snacks, comfy couches, prayer room are hear for you. Blessings this week!
=0), Narcie
