Love can sometimes be really annoying. It’s often inconvenient; it’s often very difficult; it can ask us to change or do something that is terrifying; and it can be exhausting. But when we let it in - when we take a deep breath and let it fill our hearts - it can be energizing and exciting, giving us strength, purpose and hope.
I’m thinking about all the love we’ve had for our Ukrainian guests as a good example. When we first took on the endeavor, it was scary - and a lot of hard work. We didn’t know the language, the culture. We had to jump in and get the building ready. But we let love in, and we were galvanized into action - with everyone pitching in giving goods, time, money, food and love to our Ukrainian Guests. And they have been so grateful! They’ve helped us at times, shared meals, and created a home in our church home.
It’s been a beautiful ministry, one that has been nurtured by the leadership of Tatiana H. and supported by all of you. I’m so proud of this church that loves so deeply and well. Love may be inconvenient, hard, terrifying and exhausting at times, but it also teaches us how powerful we are when we act together to live out our mission. We now know that we can do anything together. And look - now we have a new sanctuary we can build! Love always gives back tenfold what we put into it.
Rev. Sian Wiltshire is Orange Coast Unitarian Universalist Church's minister. Please feel free to reach out and say hello! She can be reached by email, revsian@ocuuc.org, or by church phone at (714) 556-2882 (x302).