This past Sunday we heard about Sacred Time and the importance of making the most of what time we have right now. To slow down. To take a break. To check in with ourselves and our loved ones instead of watching that next episode.

We create many rituals in our lives. Rituals connect us with our own past and with the memories of our loved ones. Rituals connect us with one another -- not just with family of origin but also with the family of humanity. I know for some a specific scent may trigger a memory, while for others it could be a specific hymn/song/carol!

When I hear this warning of idleness in 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13, I can see it being taken in a couple different directions. The first is that, historically, it has been used to abuse people living in poverty. The author of this letter tells people “to do their work quietly and to earn their own living.” This often leads to people being told to “just get a job and stop freeloading.” Verse 10 in the NRSV says “Anyone unwilling to work should not eat.” Anyone unwilling to work. Not anyone who is unable to work.