Let's Get Real

I have been finding myself longing for a place to delve into the topics that keep me awake at night in an honest and faithful way.  The problem is that so many people shy away from these difficult topics because they don't want to offend, or they don't want to have to choose sides. Either that or I find myself listening to the selective soundbites of whichever political group the person leans toward without much depth or personal wrestling.
This is one of the reasons that I am so glad and honored to welcome Dr. Dean Nicholas to First Presbyterian to share some of his scholarly and personal experiences on what has led up to and what is currently happening in Israel and Palestine. Yes, Dr. Nicholas is a scholar and has the academic bona fides to speak on this topic, and he will, but what I am looking forward to hearing again is his deep care for those caught up in the cycles of violence from the relationships he has curated over his years of travel and study in the Holy Land.
I think of the imagery that was used in Jesus' day to encourage close following of one's rabbi- disciples were encouraged to follow so closely that the dust of the rabbi's feet would cover the students following behind.  Our friend Dean is dusty from having followed residents of both Israel and Palestine around in their villages and neighborhoods. He has years of relational experience to add to his scholarly knowledge and I look forward to hearing him speak from both his head and his heart.
I hope to see you all Wed. November 8th at 7pm!  Pastor Amy