Dear friends in Christ,
In today’s world, much is said about the polarization and breakdown in communication
across the aisle, across nations, across cultures, across languages, and across the
dinner table. Jesus challenges us with a simple, but effective form of reconstructive
dialogue. It is incredibly intuitive, and yet most of us don’t do it. We do the opposite, and
instead of cultivating repair and reconciliation, we actually cause more damage. Anyone
who has ever tried to explain over and over again while the other person balks and
retreats understands this dynamic. Anyone who has discovered two people have been
talking about them behind their back is equally damaged. Jesus’ prescription for
reparative dialogue seems difficult and yet has been affirmed by decades of psychology
and family systems theory, and there is much wisdom in this discipleship. Please join us
as we dig into real examples of communication gone wrong and right that are relevant
to our lives, communities, and world.

In Bible Study we are studying Jesus’ sermon on the mount in Matthew 5-7. This
Sunday we are focusing on Matthew 5:27-32, Jesus’ instructions on adultery and
divorce. Though these are contentious words, Jesus advocacy for the rights of women
shines through. It is a powerful lesson in discipleship that fights against misogyny and
sexism.
We will look forward to seeing you there!
Many blessings,
Pastor Tracy