November 7, 2024

This week is a difficult one for many in our community. Writing those words feels trite to me, but I also know the power of feeling seen and acknowledged, even and especially when we are in the depths of our human experiences. If you need to talk to a pastor, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me by email or phone (312-925-1409).

I’ve been thinking a lot about the mission statement of St. John’s leading up to the election and especially this week. It’s posted all over the church and all of our communications materials: “We gather to celebrate God’s gifts—open hearts, minds, and hands—and transform the world.”

In other words, we are not called to a particular politician or political party or even specific political actions. We are called to gather in celebration of what God gives us, our hearts, minds, and hands open, that we might be coworkers with Christ in the transformation in the world. All of us, in all our varied gifts are called to this by God, the creator and source of all things. The outcome of an election doesn’t change that. That work is ongoing. That relationship with God doesn’t end with our disappointment. We are still accompanied by Christ, whose journey on earth led him to a cross in solidarity with the poor, the meek, the hungry, the merciful, the mourners, the pure in heart.

In thinking about this call to transformation, I was led to this poem from Feminist Prayers for My Daughter by Shannon K. Evans. I have found some comfort in the words of this petition and I hope you do as well.

In Christ’s peace,
Meghan

O You Who Plant Trees from Mustard Seeds

When my daughter becomes despairing over the state of the world
—which she will—

when she realizes that her biggest efforts are only a ripple in the pond
—which is true—

when she wants to give up because caring just hurts too much
—which it does—

bring her back to the face right in front of her. Remind her that smallness is not the same as nothingness. Get her to take a nap. Pour her some water.

And when she is ready once more
—which she will be—

present before her actions she can take
in her town,
on her street,
in her home,
in the smallest spaces, the least sexy spaces, the spaces that don’t seem to matter much.

Stroke her hair and whisper in her ear,
Now then, my beloved, this is how you change the world.

Amen.