Chapel Theme

RESIDING IN THE PRESENCE OF GOD

Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer.
From the end of the earth I call to you, when my heart is faint.
Lead me to the rock that is higher than I;
for you are my refuge, a strong tower against the enemy.
Let me abide in your tent forever, find refuge under the shelter of your wings.
Psalm 61:1-4

Home: for some, it can be a house upon a hill, while for others, it is simply four walls and a door, and for others still, it can be wherever they rest their head on any given evening. Our refuge is not only the materials that build the walls which surround us, but it is our family and friends, neighbors and communities, and hopes and dreams, each of which defines and supports where we reside.

Our faiths recall the stories of exile and immigration, despair and relief, war and peace, poverty and wealth, and disbelief and trust. Yet, no matter how near or far we are from the place we call our home, we are at all times residing in the presence of God. God is the great architect, builder, and preserver of our world. “God is our help in ages past, our hope for years to come, our shelter from the stormy blast, and our guide while life shall last.”

What are the stories of our ancestors and their residences? How has our history of exploration and migration come to define the landscape of our local and international communities? Where are we called to build and rebuild the Kingdom of God? Who are the children of God in most need of our refuge?

As faithful stewards and residents of the community of God, we direct our hearts and minds to the further exploration and development of our call to be decent, loving, and responsible citizens of our earthly home.