“Joy as Resistance” – April 6, 2025

Rev. Sophia preaching, with Jean Gauthier, Charlyn Bethell and Guy Urban. April’s worship theme is Joy.
It would be easy to conclude that, in days such as these, Joy is frivolous, maybe even irresponsible. However, there is much wisdom that teaches us about joy as an act of resistance and defiance–something that many rely on for survival. Let’s reflect on this together! Friends, something magical is happening on Sundays. Won’t you come to church and be a part of it? See you in church!

Reading: “Don’t Hesitate,” by Mary Oliver

If you suddenly and unexpectedly feel joy,
don’t hesitate. Give in to it. There are plenty
of lives and whole towns destroyed or about
to be. We are not wise, and not very often
kind. And much can never be redeemed.
Still, life has some possibility left. Perhaps this
is its way of fighting back, that sometimes
something happens better than all the riches
or power in the world. It could be anything,
but very likely you notice it in the instant
when love begins. Anyway, that’s often the case.
Anyway, whatever it is, don’t be afraid
of its plenty. Joy is not made to be a crumb.