In our culture, we have a built-in expectation that any “mystery” is offering us the opportunity to put together the pieces of a puzzle or to find answers to something unknown.   But as we explore this month’s Soul Matters packet, frequently we are urged to also think of the “mystery” in our lives as something to be simply experienced — that it is something that can be listened to.  In fact, the packet authors encourage us to actively make space within ourselves, to allow the wonder of life to speak to us.

The physician and author, Rachel Naomi Remen, writes:  Mystery has great power.  [As a doctor], I have watched people in their confrontation with the unknown as they recovered awe, wonder, joy, and aliveness.  — they remembered that life is holy….     Everything and everyone has a dimension of  this unknown.    Mystery helps us to see ourselves and others from the largest possible perspective, as a unique and possibly endless process.    A sense of Mystery can take us beyond disappointment and judgment to a place of expectancy.   It opens in us an attitude of listening and respect.    ……..Knowing this, enables us to listen to life from the place in us that is Mystery also.   So not only can we witness Mystery; in some profound way [we discover that] we are Mystery.

The December Soul Matters packets offer materials to explore the meaning of “mystery” – as we consider how we experience it in our lives and how it is a part of our experience in community.   We use this theme for worship and for faith formation in our RE program and chalice circles.  The Soul Matters resource packet can be accessed here.   If you need a printed copy, please feel free to take one from those available in the fellowship room or ask for a copy, if they have all been taken.   You might also like to consider joining a chalice circle to share your insights and hear what others are saying – there are chalice circle flyers in the fellowship room with information about this program.

Wishing you joy in community,

M.E. Tanabe