Through the Waters
About this blog
Through the Waters is the blog of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Christian vocation ministries. Because the ministry of Christian vocation affirms the need for all baptized Christians – including Presbyterians - to identify and claim their call to discipleship in each decision and life choice, this blog is designed to serve as a resource for youth and young adults, as well as those in ministry with them, to assist the Holy Spirit in God’s movement in this journey through the waters. Take some time to read and think about your own responses to the questions posed here. For additional resources, we suggest that you visit our website.
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- Living in the Light
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- Footprints in Our Lives
- Growing Older, Growing Wiser
- Holy Listening
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They'll Know We Are Christians...
Oh no! I thought as I walked around the corner only to see the long line to get through airport security. Hoping to make my flight but knowing that there wasn’t anything I could do about it, I got in line with my driver’s license in hand. After an impatient wait, I made it to the front of the line and was told where to stand next. As other passengers removed their shoes, coats and laptops, I looked at the clock to see how much time I would have at the gate. It was then that I caught the eye of one of the TSA agents who smiled and complimented my necklace.
Fast forward to another day of waiting, this time to see the doctor. He had been in a longer than expected surgery that morning so the appointment schedule was way off. I killed time on my iPhone and thought a lot about what I could be doing instead of sitting in the waiting room. Finally my name was called and I followed a pleasant young man back to the exam room. After asking the questions to confirm my birthdate and history of illnesses, he got up to leave but stopped first and complimented my necklace.
In both situations it was the same necklace I was wearing. And, actually, the stories could go on. I have gotten many compliments on this piece of jewelry that I wear often. So often, in fact, that it has made me think. Sure, it’s attractive and maybe a bit unique but after all, it’s a cross and a heart. Not too unusual. Maybe these strangers aren’t just drawn to the piece of silver but to what it represents. Maybe, just maybe, it’s their way of letting me know that they share some of my beliefs.
Christianity is about so much more than believing. Being a follower of Christ should be a way of life. Our life as disciples should be reflected in our everyday actions. More than a piece of silver around our necks, a tattoo, or attending a worship service, Christ calls us to live in a way that reflects our beliefs. The hymn is right, “They’ll know we are Christians by our love.” How, I wonder, have I reflected that love to others and in my actions?
I really missed the boat in not continuing to engage these strangers in the cross around my neck and what it means to me. But what weighs heavier on me is whether in times of frustration and impatience, they would have identified that I am a follower of Christ without that necklace.
How would someone know that you are a follower of Christ?
What are some ways that your beliefs are lived out in your everyday choices and actions?
How do you “tell” others about your faith?
May 11, 2012
Lessons from a Chimp
For whatever reason, I’ve been seeing more movies in the theatre lately. I’d like to say that it is because Hollywood is releasing more quality films and not because of my cravings for popcorn cooked in coconut oil but I probably just revealed my true feelings.- Posted at 2:18 p.m.
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April 25, 2012
A Home for Faith
Our family is in the process of looking for a new house. What a chore! We are blessed to be able to have certain qualities that we’re specific about and others for which we are more flexible. Where is it located? How many rooms? What is the price? We think about our comfort and, thankfully, don’t have too worry much about safety (we know we are in the minority in this one). What a surprise, then, for the house hunt to turn into a great learning opportunity.- Posted at 4:09 p.m.
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April 10, 2012
Unexpected Hunting
On Easter Sunday, I was a part of an Easter Egg Hunt that was a bit of a role reversal. The whole event was designed by an eight-year-old and the other, significantly older participants were the egg hunters. This was no casual egg hunt, though. There were lots of rules. It is an understatement to say that the hunt designer had an idea in her mind about how this event would work and she wasn’t willing to stray from it. If anything, though, it did make me think. How many of us are like her? We get an idea about …- Posted at 4:06 p.m.
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March 12, 2012
Two Pinecones
I hate to be late for anything. As a result, I rush around before any appointment or gathering in order to get there on time. I tap my foot in the airport security line…only to arrive at my gate thirty-five minutes before boarding. I dash off to Sunday worship…only to be one of the first in my seat. I tear out of the driveway before the movies…only to finish all of my popcorn before the previews. It never fails. I’d rather not show up at all than to not be on time. So, it’s no surprise then that as …- Posted at 2:58 p.m.
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