This Sunday is traditionally known as Trinity Sunday since it follows Pentecost Sunday with its focus on the coming of the Spirit. To help us reflect on the meaning of the three-in-one nature of God we have a reading from the Gospel of John (16:12-15) where Jesus tells the disciples that the Spirit of Truth will come after he is crucified to guide them into the future. And we have a reading from the Older Testament, Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31, where the author describes “Lady Wisdom” as God’s companion from the moment of creation. The image is that Wisdom has been dancing at God’s side all along this wondrous journey of life. She becomes an image of the Spirit for Jesus in the Newer Testament. The Spirit of God dancing through creation reminds us that the spiritual life involves movement, flexibility, and openness to the One who is always drawing forth something new. In a time when some believe that religion is about unmoving and unchanging concepts, I will share my belief that God is guiding us through an ever-changing world helping us move in faithful, joyful, and more just ways. This is what is modeled for us in the wisdom of Proverbs and the Gospel of John.

We will sing “Bring Many Names,” a beautiful hymn by Brian Wren, celebrating the many differing ways we come to know God through life. We will also sing “Come, Teach Us, Spirit of God” and “How Can We Name a Love” that also lift up our themes of the day. For the children I will have a story, “Old Turtle” that in elegant drawings and tender words calls us to celebrate the gift of life and the call of the Spirit. And the Chancel Choir will sing, “Lord God, Accept My Heart This Day” that will lift our spirits.

This evening (Friday, May 20) at 7 p.m. Mollie Glazer will be our musician at “Bread and Roses” coffee house. Mollie is from Nantucket, has won a number of awards, plays the cello, violin, and piano, and as Linda Worster said “is very funny to boot!” Linda will be joining Mollie for some of her songs. Mollie is the “Roses” we will enjoy and the Kid’s Place working with abused children and the justice system will be our “Bread” for the evening. One of their clinicians will be with us to briefly explain this vital work of healing and justice in our community.

This weekend, come and be nourished for your ever-changing spiritual life through wonderful music and important outreach efforts on Friday and then in worship on Sunday that will inspire and guide. Peace.