Martin Lutheran King Jr. Day 2023

 Now is the time to make real the promises of democracy. Now is the time to rise from the dark and desolate valley of segregation to the sunlit path of racial justice. Now is the time to make justice a reality for all of God's children. . .It would be fatal for the nation to overlook the urgency of the moment. . . The whirlwinds of revolt will continue to shake the foundations of our nation until the bright day of justice emerges. (MLK Aug. 28, 1963, 60 years ago)

Epiphany and Insurrection

 Today, Jan. 6th is Epiphany and the 2nd anniversary of the Insurrection. What do you see in Matthew 2:1-18? Wise men seeking someone to whom to pay homage. Fear: Herod's fear that his rule and power might be challenged. Herod secretly scheming: "Bring me word so I too can pay homage." Joseph, Mary and Jesus fleeing by night to Egypt: refugees. Herod killing ALL the children two years old or younger. Weeping and wailing. We, too, follow the Epiphany star.

Duets and Death

 My sister, Marianne, has died. She and I are just two years apart; our voices sounded so much alike that people could not tell us apart. We sang duets throughout our childhood. Burton made a recording of the two of us a few months ago still singing together. 

 

 Our granddaughter, Aimee Everist, participated in her church school Christmas pageant.  Many children; lots of parts. Aimee played the part of a woman who was the last person to be admitted to the Inn before there was "no more room" in the Inn.  A provocative part to play. What would you think if you were she? Would you even be aware you were comfortable while the Holy Family was shut out? What do you think about those now for whom there is no room? 

Luther's Christmas Sermon 1543

 From Martin Luther's Christmas sermon, 1543: The Inn was full. There are many of you who think to yourselves, "If only I had been there! How quick I would have been to help the baby." Why don't you do it now?  You have Christ in your neighbor. You ought to serve your neighbors for what you do to your neighbor in need you do to the Lord Jesus Christ.

Pearl Harbor in the Midst of Advent

 Tomorrow, Dec. 7 is the 81st anniversary of theJapanese bombing of Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. Our navy ships were sunk, more than 2,400 people were killed and more than 1,200 injured.  President Roosevelt said this was a day that would live in infamy.  So many more days since then. So many more wars. In the midst of Advent we again wait for the coming of the Prince of Peace.

 

Thanksgiving Dinner Table

 How good it was to be around the table at Thanksgiving. We missed Mark and Aimee in Arizona.  Kirk was here from Texas.  We were at the home of Joel and Rachel. Present were their children, Jennaya and Jackson and Rachel's parents and brother, the Sundbergs.

For those of you who can receive Iowa Public TV, the All State Concert will be rebroadcast, Sunday, December 4, at 1:00

Iowa All State

Once again a wonderful concert of Orchestra, Choir and Band at the 76th Iowa All State. A premiere festival, one of the best in the nation. Grandson Jackson performed, his third year. Sons Joel and Kirk, All State singers when they were in high school, with daughter-in-law Rachel and granddaughter Jennaya, also a former All State choir member, watch, along with Burton and Me. I and my sister, Marianne were All State singers when we were in Mason City High School in the 1950's

Thank You Nancy Pelosi

 Thank you, Speaker of the House, for your years of service to this country.  You are an intelligent, wise, courageous woman.  I cheered when you were elected speaker some 20 years ago. I admire your ability to learn about people, to strategize, to respect everyone. You may well be the most influential Speaker of the House in history.  You accomplishments are way too many to mention.  You have been made fun of, threatened. Your life and that of your husband have been in danger. And you have not only survived, but led--collaboratively. You have led with grace and dignity and deep faith. Thank you.  

Armistice Day

On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, 1918, the Great War (World War 1) ended. The armistice was signed. The killing stopped. This was the war to end all wars. In 1938 the day became a legal holiday dedicated to world peace. In 1954, after WW 11, the day became Veterans Day to give thanks for those who serve in all wars. My father served in the Great War, many many cousins served in WW 11.  My son has served in the National Guard. May we, in this time of global conflicts, dedicate ourselves to work for world peace. 

The Path

"The Path" goes for 21 miles around Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. Indigenous Potawatomi peoples created the path centuries ago. In more recent times Lake Geneva became home to prominent Chicago families for their summer homes. Now by law the path must be maintained by property owners and always open to the public--everyone. Some pedestrians walk the entire path in one day; most walk it in segments or just part of it. What a joy!

VOTE

 One week from this Wednesday morning, we will awaken to find out the results of the Nov. 8 elections. However, it may be days or weeks until we know the full final results. There very well may be candidates who deny they lost. There might be court cases, and, yes, violence. But this cannot deter us from voting. Indeed, it must propel us to vote thoughtfully. Know what the candidates really believe.  Thank the poll workers when we vote.  Invite a neighbor to go with us to the polls. Voting and upholding the voting process is needed to strengthen this democracy.  Vote!