From Our Pastors – October 6

Posted onAuthorAidan Cuningham

Rev. Megan
Berkowitz

Rev. Amy
Clark Feldman

Pastor Megan
October 6, 2023

“But ask the animals, and they will teach you,
    the birds of the air, and they will tell you;
 ask the plants of the earth, and they will teach you,
    and the fish of the sea will declare to you.”

Job 12:7-8                             

Dear church,

When Leila and I first decided to adopt a rabbit, my first-ever pet, I had visions of what it would be like. Most rabbits don’t like to be handled, but Rosey was only 5 weeks old when we met. Surely he’d warm up to it! Plus, he’s a Flemish Giant, a breed known for their low-key, friendly temperaments.

Ha. Rosey has been FEISTY from the day we brought him home. He let us weigh him in a mixing bowl on the kitchen scale exactly once (1lb 4oz) before deciding that he preferred to be on the ground, thanks, and communicating that preference with his claws. He runs when he sees us coming with the carrier, the brush, the vacuum, and even the lint-roller.

But…if we sit on the floor near him, he comes up to us immediately. He headbutts us, demanding attention, and lays fully stretched out so we can pet his head, back, belly, tail, and ears. He jumps for joy when we get up in the mornings, and he runs to greet me when I get home. He and I share an apple, banana, or some blueberries most mornings. When we learned to put away some of our expectations in favor of the needs he was communicating, all three of us got along better.

The scripture for Bible study and worship this week has to do with right relationship: honoring the needs of ourselves, of our neighbors, and of God at the core of building connections. The scriptures are full of such lessons. Sometimes, though, we just need to learn a different way, and more-than-human creatures can teach us.

Peace,
Megan

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