February 12, 2023

Welcome to Wondering Wednesday. You are encouraged to use this as personal devotion and reflection. You are encouraged to hop on the church Facebook page or Instagram page and wonder with others.

Special info about our Southern California Nevada ConferenceRacial Justice zoom on 2/7/2023 below!

Week 3“Be En-Couraged”Matthew 14: 22-31a says this:“…the boat was far out to sea when the wind came up against them and they were battered by the waves. At about four o’clock in the morning, Jesus came toward them walking on the water. They were scared to death. “A ghost!” they said, crying out in terror. But Jesus was quick to comfort them. “Courage, it’s me. Don’t be afraid.” Peter, suddenly bold, said, “Master, if it’s really you, call me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come ahead.” Jumping out of the boat, Peter walked on the water to Jesus. But when he looked down at the waves churning beneath his feet, he lost his nerve and started to sink. He cried, “Master, save me!” Jesus didn’t hesitate. He reached down and grabbed his hand.” (The Message)It takes courage to change, to break out of whatever narrow paths we might find ourselves in. Just like Peter, if we are going to change, we have to take the first uncertain steps out of the boat onto the water and into the unknown. Luckily, we too have Jesus’ redeeming help and support, his hand reaching out to us, if we start to sink or lose our way.

Wonder …

On which path might you need to take a first uncertain step?

Pray…God, give me grace to accept with serenitythe things that cannot be changed,Courage to change the thingswhich should be changed,and the Wisdom to distinguishthe one from the other.

Our Southern California Nevada Conference is encouraging us to watch this docuseries and engage in conversation. I hope UCUC will join in these conversations.Pastor Iona

Hulu’s six-part 1619 Docuseries is an expansion of “The 1619 Project” created by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones and the New York Times Magazine. The series seeks to reframe the country’s history by placing the consequences of slavery and the contributions of Black Americans at the very center of our national narrative.Watch trailer hereIf you do not currently have a Hulu account, you can purchase a $5.99 standard subscription to view this important documentary. Please contact the admin@ucuc.org if you cannot afford a subscription.

Join your friends from all over SCNC for post-viewing Zoom conversations as we work for a just world for all.February 7 (7pm ) “Democracy” Episode ConversationandFebruary 21 (7pm ) “Race” Episode ConversationZOOM Link for both conversations: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87891662997?pwd=bDBaQ09qek9acTYrS25UYXB2NHI5UT09