Right now in Bible Study we are making our way through Rev. Molly Phinney Baskette’s book How to Begin When Your World is Ending: A Spiritual Field Guide to Joy Despite Everything.  Molly was diagnosed with an aggressive cancer at 39 years-old, with a husband and two small children, and while serving as the pastor of a UCC congregation in Somerville, MA.  She found that her theological beliefs and relationship with God were (understandably) tested during this time. 

Instead of becoming despondent, Molly engaged with her faith more deeply, testing the “seaworthiness of the faith she had been practicing and preaching.” (quote from the book jacket)  How to Begin When Your World is Ending weaves together Molly’s story and the stories of those she encountered along the way.  It also was partly written during the early days of the Covid pandemic, during a time when many of us were contending with all the pandemic entailed.  I think I can speak for our Bible Study class here at CFC in saying that we are really enjoying the book.  Should you be going through hardships in your own life (Molly talks about cancer, the challenges of being a parent, LGBTQ+ inclusion, our faith journeys, and so much more), consider it a recommended read. 

For this week’s thought, I wanted to share this book recommendation should it be helpful.  And I will leave you with this beautiful quote Molly wrote in Chapter 6 “The Holy Spirit Portal”, for whatever you may be facing.  Perhaps read these few sentences slowly and pause between some of the phrases.  Let the words sink into your heart.

“God loves you, enormously.  God doesn’t want to punish you.  God doesn’t require you to be any different from who you are.  God is looking out for your highest good, and no, I don’t think God can prevent bad things from happening to you, but God will not abandon you in your distress and fear, and God will weep when you are weeping, and God will send angels, both human and divine to help you out of the tight spots, and God will strengthen you for whatever you have to face.” (pg. 84) 

Love,
Pastor Lauren

Photo by Tj Holowaychuk on Unsplash

Thursday Thoughts 5/4/23