We would be hard-pressed to find the concepts of compassion and service omitted from any of the world’s great spiritual teachings. Sometimes hearing familiar ideas in the words of another culture’s writing stimulates our imagination and understanding. If ever the world needed us to hold compassion in our hearts and practice it through selfless service, it is now!

As we continue our exploration of the great spiritual truths from a variety of world scriptures across all traditions, it is of utmost importance that we embrace our Oneness with all of humanity---indeed all of life. We continue to embrace the paradox of being absolutely infinitesimal in the overarching scope of the Universe, while also acknowledging that we are absolutely essential to the Whole as an expression of the Divine. We need each other!

It may seem as though nothing in the world is the same anymore. We as a species have experienced head-spinning changes in our social, economic, technological and ecological “norms” in a very short amount of time. How does that shift our understanding of God…and better yet, our conversations about God?

For three years, Jesus traveled and taught with his chosen and beloved companions. His most amazing and teachable lessons were in their presence. We too are companions of the living Christ presence. We’ll explore how to call upon that Presence when our lives are at their most confusing and unsettled, or when fear is powering “the boat.”

Joseph (of “the coat of many colors”) endured betrayal at the hands of family and strangers. He went to prison unjustly. And yet, he matured and learned from the voice of God that was ever present with him. In the end, his victories echo our victories---if we allow ourselves to be saturated with Grace, and if we are willing to turn our misfortunes and disappointments into works of generosity and wisdom.