Falling Down

While there is no scriptural basis for suggesting that Jesus fell down while carrying the cross en route to being crucified, I found myself transfixed a few weeks ago at the St. Andrew's Abbey mountainside stations of the cross.  The Dwellers and I went on a solitude retreat in late January, and the image of the fallen Jesus has stayed with me.  Perhaps it's the suggestion of his being "fully human," (and it being repeated 3 times); maybe it's because I'm hearing countless tales of friends and family members losing jobs and beginning to slip into despair and anxiety; maybe it's just because I know how much it hurts to fall down in front of people, with everyone watching.However, this week I was struck more powerf

ully by the idea that, regardless of whether Jesus actually fell or not, he kept going on.  He made his way up that hill, he did what needed to be done, he laid down his life for all of us.  It's the getting back up that's divine, the spirit of moving towards a purpose, for others, for more than ourselves.  I have seen the light of that divine motivation in this job, and it humbles me.

In these turbulent and difficult times, people are giving money and time to help others, even when they themselves are on shaky ground.  With our Discover groups, I have learned that some leaders are without jobs, and yet, still agree to shepherd their students in learning the importance of service and walking alongside those less financially fortunate.  Local agencies that are hurting for funding are finding ways to partner and work collaboratively, instead of competitively, to make sure their programs can still assist those in greatest need.  Falling down, getting up, moving forward for the greater good.  This is the power of God.

Shifting back to Dwell, Mary, Sara, Stephanie, and Alison are incredibly busy.  While their lives are not without conflict, they are working hard to find ways to come together as a house, within their community, and within their churches and agencies.  In the midst of all the gardening, tutoring, case management, and figuring out how to manage meals on a tight budget, these 4 are striving to find ways to achieve balance and even some fun.  Family members and friends are visiting soon, and we will also be hosting a large group of high school kids from Roseville, California early in April.  Spring Break is upon us, with all it's nicer weather, traveling opportunities, and chances to serve others in love and community.

Blessings to you all, and thanks for reading,

Matthew