what I'm reading

If you've been following our social media pages, it's no secret that we've been reading and discussing Laudato Si' by Pope Francis. This is a book I read in seminary for a course on Creation Care and Sabbath Economics. It always amazes me that we receive books differently each time we read them - not because they're different, but because we're different. I found myself much more tuned-in to the emotions, empathy, fear, and pleading this time around. 

Creation Care is something I've always cared about, but now I fear for planet upon which my daughter will grow and live. If we don't change our ways now, will she be able to play outside like I did? Or will the air be too dangerous, the temperature too hot, the water too scarce? 
Anyway, I'm so glad I reread Laudato Si'. I'm so glad some church participants read and discussed with me! I hope we're all convicted to do better, to do what we can, and to hold accountable those who can do more (a.k.a., the government and world leaders.)
​Join us for the film version of this book at the Grove Family Library on August 31 at 6:00 PM! 

I've also been listening to the audiobook version of Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer. Friends, this book is encouraging my soul and giving me a deep, spiritual hope. It has me CONVINCED that if we love the earth well, she will love us back. I can barely come up with words to tell you how much I am benefiting from this book. I'm sorry to leave it at this, but...

You just have to read it. 

I'm not sure what's next on my reading list! It might be time to revisit some Pete Enns. It might also be time for a novel. Lessons in Chemistry has been on my night table since Christmas, just waiting to be read, and I've seen so many good reviews! 
We'll see how the Spirit leads me. ;)
Happy reading!
- Pastor J