Life Together Community (May 7, 2023)

(*Labyrinth at Rolling Ridge Retreat Center, North Andover, MA)

Have you heard of a Prayer Labyrinth? 

A labyrinth is an ancient symbol of wholeness. It is a spiritual reflection, prayer, and meditation tool that can help us connect with God and deepen our faith. The labyrinth represents our life journey. 

The following are my reflections as I walked to the center, praying and praising God:

1. "One life." There is the beginning and the end of the journey. 
2. "By faith, not by sight." The journey seems circular and meandering but purposeful. It seems we're not going anywhere, but the fact is we're getting closer to the center. 
3. "No shortcut." It's different from a maze. The maze has multiple paths and will not necessarily lead to the center, whereas the labyrinth has one way which leads to it. What we need is to keep walking with endurance. 
4. "Each step is unique." With every step we take, we see different living creatures and plants on the path. It's like a fingerprint. There is a meaning and purpose for each step. 
5. "It's just a beginning." When we arrive at the center, then we are to walk back to the outside - back again out into the world, as we intercede for God's people. 

I believe our Sunday worship is like the labyrinth journey: We approach God, we listen to God, we respond to God, then we go back into the world. Even better, we take this journey together as we worship. So come, let us walk and run to the house of God together. You're invited this Sunday! 

If you are not able to come in person, you can worship with us online via the following links:

• Hodgdon UMC: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100070411631446
• Houlton UMC: https://youtube.com/live/V_xc1Va0z0M?feature=share
• Mars Hill UMC: https://www.facebook.com/MarsHillUnitedMethodist

I am so grateful for our journey together. See you Sunday! 

In Christ, 

Pastor Victor