“God said, “This is the sign of the covenant that I make between me and you and every living creature that is with you, for all future generations: I have set my bow in the clouds, and it shall be a sign of the covenant between me and the earth. When I bring clouds over the earth and the bow is seen in the clouds, I will remember my covenant that is between me and you and every living creature of all flesh; and the waters shall never again become a flood to destroy all flesh.” 

• Genesis 9:12-15 NRSV

Good afternoon, Beloved,

             I pray you are all held softly in God’s hands and able to stay safe and dry on this drizzly Wednesday afternoon. That said, I also hope you can witness a rainbow today. For, what a glorious thing every rainbow is as they drift across the sky following the storms of the world. They are almost reminders that everything will be ok. Reminders that the storms end. Reminders that God is caring for all of us and all flesh upon the Earth. 

             Now today, we know that the rainbows in the sky are not literally God’s Bow which was used to put holes in the firmament of the sky. An act which caused all the Earth to be flooded as explained in Genesis. No, we know the rainbows are created by the reflection of light. Yet, this story in the Bible of Noah and the flood is no less true. No less honest as a metaphor for God’s covenantal promise to all of Creation. Yes, all the flesh – not just the Israelites. A promise that is fulfilled through the teachings and loving actions of Christ Jesus. A promise that can be fulfilled by each of us who work as the hands and feet of God in this world every time we help and care for all people, regardless of age, gender, or any other identity.

             In this way of thinking, it makes sense that we would have rainbows upon our windows in the sanctuary. It feels right; for, we are fulfilling God’s Covenantal promise to all the flesh when we welcome all people no matter who they are or where they are on their journey. When we not only welcome all people but share that here is a place that all people – all the flesh of Creation – may finally feel safe after the long storms have passed. 

             All this calls to me in a new way. It makes me wonder what this symbol from the Bible is saying to you. As a person of faith, how or does this symbol call to you? 

Beloved, I share this practice of inquiry today because symbols are powerful things. They provide meaning in ways which we may not even think of or recognize. Yet, when we look at the symbols and deeply consider what they mean to each of us. Not how they are intended, but what they mean to us personally. We may discover new ways God is calling us in our delight, understanding, or rejection of those symbols. So, I pray that you will take the time this week to notice one symbol in your life. Consider how it makes you feel and discover what it means to you. Maybe, in this inquiry you will discover God’s call.

Your pastor and teacher, Brian

Please consider the ways you care for your own spirituality and faith throughout Lent. If you would like, you may text, call, or email me always to talk and discover ideas to help you refresh your soul. As I am here to support you and your relationship with God wherever you are on the journey. My number is (207-350-9561) if you need anything or simply want to talk. Next week, my pastoral care hours are Mon. 9-4, Tues. 12-5, Wed. 9-4, Thurs. 10-2 to provide some time for visiting. Many blessings and Love to you all.