Rivers are symbolically rich, historically significant, majestic works of nature. Their presence, their movement sustains life where it might otherwise perish. Today, we reflect on our interconnectedness, as if each of our lives were tributaries of a vast river.
Rivers are alive with movement. They have direction. Whether a trickle or a raging flood, they have power. They all have a source. Most are fed by vast networks of streams. This feels like an apt metaphor for spiritual journeys. In different seasons, the rivers rise and fall, they may move and change the terrain, they might freeze over, they can even die off in the worst circumstances. Does this sound like your faith over time? It feels like mine.
Rivers are made of the vitalizing water of life. Beyond all they DO, we need what they ARE to live. If spiritual nourishment is found in the rivers of faith, we can bathe in the restorative waters, but can we float the current alone? Can we brave the rapids without protection? I believe shared faith and religious community can be the vessel in which we navigate the dark vastness of existence.
Before finding UUCG, I felt like I was floating. I would occasionally probe the depths of the river of faith, but knowing where the bottom was didn’t really matter to me. I accepted my place and floated on. Eventually, like many, I needed more. Shared values and a place to be my authentic self were the reasons I first walked through these doors. Honesty, vulnerability, and spiritual growth are why I’ve stayed. We’re in this vessel together. We can examine the depths together. Let us drink of these waters together.
~Ian Van Sice
