Rest and Renewal

I'm grateful for the opportunity to step away and immerse myself in the natural beauty of Oregon while participating in the Festival of Homiletics online. Both experiences—resting in nature and engaging with inspiring speakers—nourished my spirit, enabling me to (hopefully) nourish yours in return. Special thanks to Lily, Ricky, Tom, Amy T., Amy V., and everyone who shouldered parts of my workload to make this possible.

Western Meadowlark

My journey took me through Ashland to Summer Lake, where the stark beauty of sagebrush, Ponderosa Pine barrens, and buttes offered a contrast to the mossy glens of the Coastal Range. The openness of the landscape invited a different kind of breathing, fostering a unique sense of rest I find in expansive horizons. Though the bird migration had passed, the Summer Lake Wildlife Area was teeming with life. Each evening, a Western Meadowlark serenaded the setting sun over Summer Lake—a moment of pure delight.

The renewal came through this year's Festival of Homiletics, centered on the theme "Preaching to Heal the Divide." Over four days, renowned scholars and preachers offered sermons and lectures addressing how to proclaim the Good News amidst divided communities and congregations.

The theme, chosen prior to recent election results and the subsequent 40 days of turmoil, resonated deeply. Speakers shared their struggles with the texts as the festival approached. Rev. Allan Boesak, advised against traveling from South Africa, delivered his opening keynote sermon, "In Need of a Healing Moment," remotely. Dr. Melva Sampson challenged us with her sermon, "Don't Shrink Back," on Tuesday morning. Austen Hartke's lecture, "Beyond Division, Beyond Binaries: Gender Diversity in Your Congregation," called us to inclusivity on Wednesday morning. David Gushee shared insights from his latest book in his lecture, "Proclaiming the Moral Teaching of Jesus," on Wednesday afternoon. Otis Moss III delivered a powerful sermon, "Speak Now or Forever Hold Your Peace," on Thursday morning. You can view the entire lineup here.

While some workshops were exclusive to in-person attendees, the online offerings left me feeling enriched. I appreciated taking afternoons off to rest and reflect. I am grateful that all content is available for viewing over the next three months so I can watch again. (If you're interested, let's find a time to watch and discuss these presentations together.)

In truth, it’s the rhythm between rest and renewal that made this time so meaningful. The quiet of wide skies and wind in the sage helped create space in me—a stillness deep enough to receive the words and wisdom of others. And the renewal I found in the voices of preachers and teachers felt all the more vibrant because my soul was not crowded by the noise of daily urgency. Each informed the other: the hush of the desert making room for the Word, and the Word echoing back into my stillness with new life.

I return reminded that healing and hope—both for ourselves and for our divided world—depend on this rhythm. We can’t preach or live the Good News unless we are steeped in it. And sometimes, that steeping requires stepping away, listening deeply, breathing differently. I'm grateful I had that chance—and grateful to return with my spirit nourished and ready to share.

Ponderosa Pine in the Lava Cast Forest

Thank you again for giving me the time to step away. I return with a heart full of gratitude and ideas, ready to walk with you into whatever comes next. May we all find, in our own ways, those wide skies and singing voices that help us breathe again—and remind us that the work we do together is holy.

Peace,

Pastor Robin

For more information on the Festival of Homiletics and access to the sessions, please visit their official website: Festival of Homiletics.