February 7, 2003

Pastor's Corner

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

This is a fascinating month don't you think? It is the time we let our loved ones know of our affection for them. We buy cards, flowers, candy, and perhaps even special gifts. . .all to show our love.

I believe that actions speak louder than words (most of the time). So taking the time to find the right "Love" gift is so important.

But sometimes we forget to include the words with our actions. Words spoken can carry the power of actions taken. Words of anger can hurt, words of jealousy can divide, and words of love can unite. When we speak do we affirm each other? When we open our mouths do we show the love we want to express?

Henry Nouwen writes, "When we talk with one another , we often talk about what happened, what we are doing, or what we plan to do. Often we say, 'What's up?' and we encourage one another to share the details of our daily lives. But often we want to hear something else. We want to hear, 'I've been thinking of you today,' or 'I missed you,' or 'I wish you were here,' or 'I really love you. '... Telling someone 'I love you' in whatever way is always delivering good news... Words of love and affirmation are like bread. We need them each day, over and over. They keep us alive inside. "

In this month we are called to feed each other not with chocolates, but with affirmations and encouragement. My hope would be that we would be so alive then to make the month of love the year of love. Speaking words of love...the best kind of "Chocolate" to eat!

Peace and love,

Rev. Nicole Richardson

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