... being that one person.

Several of us went to the movies on Monday. We saw the new Christian film "The Forge," which focused on discipling. NOT discipline—although that does happen to be the root origin of "disciple." (Discipline comes from discipulus, the Latin word for student.) Through this movie we learned how one's life can be influenced through the attention and "shepherding" of someone who wholeheartedly believes in Christ. We witnessed the young man in the story blossoming as he began to find his way as a Christian. And we saw the unfailing strength of those who prayed for him to succeed.

It may "take a village" (as the saying goes) to effect positive change ... but often it can simply take the commitment and devotion of a single individual.

In the words of the evangelist Dwight L. Moody, "Small numbers make no difference to God. There is nothing small if God is in it."

We should never underestimate the power each one of us has within to make a difference in the world!

—Cathy Betts Sapunor

... thin spaces.

At this past weekend's church retreat, we talked about "thin places" ... those spaces in our world where we feel close to God. Zephyr Point Presbyterian Conference Center is—for many—one such place. With beautiful Lake Tahoe as a setting, surrounded by ages-old granite boulders and immensely tall pine trees, Zephyr Point has captured the hearts and souls of thousands who have visited it since its start 100 years ago. We are truly grateful and fortunate to have such a treasure in our own backyard (well, a mere two-hour drive away).

Still, as we discussed at the retreat, there are places like this all around us; if not already in existence, then waiting for us to create for ourselves. Perhaps there's a park nearby, or a special route you take while walking your dog. Or a community garden or local nature preserve. Is there a corner in your backyard you can transform into a quiet spot for reading scripture? Or a chair in your living room that you could designate for simply sitting and contemplating? Sometimes just having a mutually understood signal among your household that "I am now entering a sacred space" is enough to steady yourself and focus; check out the fun story written in 1955 by Ruth Bell Graham for Guideposts magazine. Get out your apron!

It might seem that seeking out or creating a "thin space" ... and visiting it regularly ... is just adding more activity to our already busy lives. But putting God first, and letting other things fall into place can really work. That "first" thing is eloquently expressed in Melissa Jean's vocal rendition of Psalm 27: "One thing that I desire from the Lord: that one thing will I seek for. That I may dwell in His house, and inquire in His temple; and behold the beauty of the Lord."

The Lord's house, and its promises of joy, security, uncompromising answers and profound acceptance, can be found not just in church on Sunday morning but at any time and in any place. Look around and discover where you best hear and respond to God. And make that your own "thin place."

—Cathy Betts Sapunor

... Christ moments.

Meeting again yesterday morning was the "Monday Group" ... Bethany's biweekly gathering of 10 or so individuals who find a lot in common despite owning distinctly different opinions and viewpoints. More and more, participants are opening up to each other—sharing dreams, disappointments, challenges and sorrows. We may have greeted each other months (or years) at Sunday morning worship services. Maybe sent (or received) the occasional birthday or "get well" card. Perhaps even served together on a committee or project. We may have thought we knew each other ... then along came the Monday Group and we discovered ... we really didn't. Not deeply, that is.

But now, by having met together for about a year, it seems natural to talk through what's troubling us, to truly listen to one another .. even to take issue with something somebody said or did that bothers us. These are all "Christ moments"—times we are asked to overlook what separates us and be assured of God's grace as we seek to do His will. Who would have thought that such intimacy and connection could evolve from something as basic as a book-and-Bible-study kind of activity?

Maybe it's not so surprising that this regular little gathering kind of defines what Bethany—now in its 110th year as a church—has come to: be a caring community that is both grounded in the past and yet not afraid to take risks. When we use our collective memories, honoring what we as a congregation have achieved and meant to so many over the decades, we renew ourselves as God's people. And renewal can lead to confidence and the willingness to look at everything through new eyes. Sometimes we might not like what we see. Sometimes we are afraid of what we might see. During these Christ moments, we are asked not just for our loving attention to God, but our patience as well. Like our relationships with one another, there is hidden depth waiting to be discovered.

—Cathy Betts Sapunor

… miracles.

Less than 90 miles north of us, the world is turning upside down for families and communities. Since its start (due to arson) in Chico last Wednesday the Park Fire now has encompassed 386,764 acres in four counties. Look at the combined effort it is taking to bring this disaster under control:

Several former (from the '70s) Bethany youth group members (Jim Crandell, David Betts and Steve Betts) have been using technology resources and professional contacts to follow the advance of the Park Fire, enabling Bethany's Prayer Team to direct prayers to affected individuals and neighborhoods. To these guys, monitoring the emergency channels is not just a hobby; for one of them (Steve, son of late Bethany member Bob Betts and brother of Cathy Betts Sapunor), it's been a gripping and tense week as his own home is within a quarter mile of where fire crews battled the blaze on Highway 32. Evacuated to Chico with his wife, three dogs and a cat (and all the "important" stuff that could be carried in their trailer), retired engineer Steve waited and watched (remotely) as the skills of all the fire fighting experts were put into play. In similar circumstances were several family members of Howard McMackin, whose properties were also threatened.

Bethany's Prayer Team prayed around the clock for a successful outcome. And for the safety of the fire fighters risking their lives. When the fire jumped Highway 32 on Thursday night, the situation looked grim. "I've already made peace with the house being gone, but maybe I'll be surprised," said Steve. Bethany's "prayer warriors" did not let up. And today Steve's wife Ali was able to write a message—as they prepared to return to the home miraculously saved by firefighters (a helicopter had even dropped water in their backyard to extinguish a "hot spot")—to say "thank you" to all who have been praying. "Thanks for the love," she says.

No firefighters' lives have been lost and the fire is nearly 18% controlled. Considering that just a day or so ago, the fire was 0% controlled, that's saying something. And it is amazing how these teams of fire experts have been able to come together—most not knowing each other until their arrival on the scene—and apply their collective skills and talents. Moreover, behind the scenes, community volunteers have stepped up to provide emergency housing for displaced residents and safe pastured space for large animals (horses and cattle, for example) which had to be evacuated. It's something to marvel at: how does everybody DO this on a moment's notice? How is everything coordinated so quickly and so well? Surely, as the Park Fire rages on, the hand of God is upon everybody and everything.

When we pray, miracles happen. We should look for them in not only big "inferno" situations but also in the small, humble circumstances of the everyday. In the words of Jesus, as recorded in Mark 9: 23, "Everything is possible for one who believes."

—Cathy Betts Sapunor

... helpers.

Bethany has experienced another loss among its church family. Dolores McMackin passed away this evening after spending a week in the hospital and rehab trying to recover from injuries associated with a fall. As recently as a couple of days ago, when church members visited her, she was in good spirits and had retained her sparkling (and wicked) sense of humor. Folks joked with her about her "unexpected vacation" away from household chores and urged her to take it easy. She agreed that she deserved the break ... but wished she hadn't had to break several ribs to earn it. Word about a memorial service will come soon ... in the meantime, please remember husband Howard, daughter Janna and son Donald (and their spouses and children) in your prayers.

On a related note ... Howard has been coming to church to make coffee nearly every Sunday morning, even while Dolores was home-bound or hospitalized. This couple, who celebrated their 68th anniversary on June 10, have truly been the backbone of Bethany's Fellowship Commission for the past two decades. When thinking of their efforts over the years to make Bethany's coffee hour and social events lovely and meaningful times for everybody, perhaps you'll agree that the apostle Paul's words to the fledgling Christian community in Colossae come to mind:

“And whatever you do,
in word or deed,
do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus,
giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

— Colossians 3:17

This kind of dedication might be considered rare ... and yet, at Bethany, we have many who give generously of themselves on a regular basis to help enrich the lives of others. As Mister Rogers so famously said, in a message to children who might be upset or anxious or grief-stricken, "Look for the helpers." Just as we are secure in the knowledge that God will be with us ... to the end of the age ... we can take comfort in remembering that even in this small congregation, we do not lack the resources to take care of each other. Look for the helpers. Get inspired and be energized by them. Maybe even become one?

—Cathy Betts Sapunor

... honest talk about violence.

Summer should be a time of carefree fun ... a time of picnics and pools, families and friends. And, of course, this being an election year, also a time for expressing political views and sharing visions for the future. Sadly, this past weekend showed that our safety when gathering at public events is something we can no longer take for granted. Are we all now at risk simply by leaving our homes?

The truth, in fact, is that violent crime in the U.S. is actually on the decline. Has been for several years. So why do we feel so scared and vulnerable? Possibly because in this digital era, news travels so fast ... and bad news always grabs the biggest headlines. And also maybe because we fear what is out of our hands. We can wear seatbelts, for example, but we cannot control the inattentive driver in the next lane. We don't let this stop us from dashing to the store to pick up a carton of milk. Yet the odds of being in a traffic accident are greater than being a victim of violent crime (which California sources estimate is one victim per 20,000 persons).

Experts say our anxiety and worry probably stem from our perception that "crime is out there, waiting to get us." Will we ever get anything done, or go anywhere, if we constantly feel this way?

It's hard to believe that everything is going to be okay when the world feels like it's falling apart. Beyond taking the usual safety precautions (Don't park in unlit areas! Lock your car!) it seems there's not much else we can do. And that's when God comes into the picture, asking—no, expecting—us to trust him to watch over us. Moreover, he asks—no, demands—that we go further and step in (and speak up) to promote justice and peacemaking. Those are things we can do. And when we can do something, anything, we cease feeling like victims. It takes courage to stay engaged in the real world. Now is the time to remember that God's unsurpassed love and faith in us make that happen.

—Cathy Betts Sapunor

... responding in new ways.

The heat wave continues! Fortunately, temperatures are predicted to drop soon. In the meantime, we console ourselves with the sure knowledge that "this, too, shall pass." Believe it or not, this expression is not from scripture. But here's something appropriate that is:

“All things are wearisome,
more than one can say.
The eye never has enough of seeing,
nor the ear its fill of hearing.
What has been will be again,
what has been done will be done again;
there is nothing new under the sun.”

— Ecclesiastes 1: 8-9

While there may truly be nothing "new" under the sun, there is always something new possible within us ... something shaping and guiding us and causing us to respond in new new ways as God's people. Take, for example, the "cooling center" ministry. It was first organized by Jim Guida during the September 2022 heat crisis (when Sacramento's temperature reached the historical high of 116 degrees). Last week this outreach effort was reactivated by elder Susan Just, providing solace and (air conditioned) comfort to those in need. She and Mike Sutton, joined by other Bethany volunteers, served as hosts Monday-Friday ... and even sought out unhoused members of the public to come in to rest and replenish themselves. This project continues Monday-Tuesday this week.

Have you got an idea of how Bethany can be of service in our community? Has your life at Bethany brought about new ways of thinking, being and doing? Be sure to share these thoughts at the next "focus group" gathering after the worship service on Sunday, July 21.

—Cathy Betts Sapunor

... waving goodbye to summer and anticipating the beauty of fall.

August is the time to wave goodbye to summer and anticipate the beauty of fall. Vacations end and children prepare for school. The days are still bright and kissed by the Sun but they are getting shorter. Frosty mornings are a long way off but night has lengthened its grip.

This year is different. Our vacations were aborted in March and schooling remains a mystery. Will it take place at the kitchen table or will children file off to school?  Will our homes still be our workplaces and for how long?

As we transition into this quagmire of uncertainty, let use keep the words of Isaiah 26: 3-4 in mind:

Thou dost keep him in perfect
whose mind is stayed on thee,
because he trusts in thee.

Trust in the Lord forever,
for the Lord God is an everlasting rock.

God is my source of peace. I know that there is a path for me in the most difficult and trying circumstances. This path will help me grow in peace, joy and wisdom. Can these verses help you as we move into the future?

P.S. I set my alarm to this song when I need to awaken to the day in a strong and energetic manner. It is based on Isaiah 26: 3-4. It is called “Perfect Peace” and it is performed by Andre Crouch and the Disciples.

—Jackie Sneed 

... justice.

JUST this:
Be fair.
Honest.
Kind.
What you want for yourself and your family,
help others so attain.

Just THIS:
Love one another
as Christ loved—
will never stop loving—
us.

—CBS

PHOTO: CAROLYN LIEBRAND

... imagining.

Housebound, but not helpless.
Limited, but not useless.
Space-defined yet unimaginably free
we have time to explore emotions and
revive memories
clean closets
tidy loose ends
figure out what's important
and true
and with God's help,
make of it all
something
meaningful and
new.

—Cathy Betts Sapunor
in COVID-19 quarantine

... greater love.

Poor little February. Only 28 days in duration, it’s the shortest of all the months. But this little runt of the litter contains one of the most endearing holidays—Valentine’s Day. We get an entire day devoted to the appreciation of love!

AND every four years—Leap Year—we get 366 days (not 365) and Shorty February gets the honor of hosting it. Leap Year asks—no, demands—that we do something meaningful with our extra day.

What will YOU do with your 24 extra hours? You could write overdue letters to family and friends. You could grocery shop for items to give to the food closet. You could visit someone whose health makes it hard to get out of the house. You could learn the name of your mail carrier (coffee barista, gas station attendant, credit union teller, et. al.) and begin greeting him/her personally. You could pray. Oh yes, please do pray. The world, as troubled as ever, desperately needs your prayers.

On February 29, do what you can to bring about understanding, friendship, peace and love.

Take a leap … into greater love.

—CBS

... giving and receiving.

Christmas marks the birth of Jesus: “the greatest gift to the world.” In keeping with that spirit of generosity, we give presents to one another. (And Santa comes with treasures for good little girls and boys!) Every December we place immense emphasis on getting just the right thing for the right person.

Yet a Bethany member once declared that it wasn’t until he became seriously ill that he learned how to receive. He remarked that while his cancer was not a blessing, his response to it was. He said he was learning to ask others for help and for prayers. For someone whose career had been focused on helping others rehabilitate themselves, he now found himself on the receiving end. Up until his death, he proclaimed that just as much as “God loves a cheerful giver,” God loves a cheerful receiver.

During the month that lies ahead—the month traditionally promoted as filled with joy—we are bound to feel moments of sadness and longing. We may grieve for loved ones no longer with us. We may feel overwhelmed by finances or schedules. (We may even come down with the ‘flu!)

Let’s remind ourselves that the infant Jesus was as vulnerable and weak as any other newborn, needing infinite care and love. And know that this same comfort and aid is always available to us from friends and family. And from God, the greatest Gift-giver of all.

—CBS

Receiving is often harder than giving. Giving is very important: giving insight, giving hope, giving courage, giving advice, giving support, giving money, and most of all, giving ourselves. Without giving there is no brotherhood and sisterhood.

But receiving is just as important, because by receiving we reveal to the givers that they have gifts to offer. When we say, “Thank you, you gave me hope: thank you, you gave me a reason to live; thank you, you allowed me to realize my dream,” we make givers aware of their unique and precious gifts. Sometimes it is only in the eyes of the receivers that givers discover their gifts.

–Henri Nouwen

… giving thanks.

This is historically the month for giving thanks. For food on the table, for family and friends, for paychecks, for roofs over our heads. But for every blessing we can count, we can recall even more terrible, embarrassing, dangerous, thoughtless, angry or foolish things we have done. Years later, we are still pointing blame at ourselves and considering ourselves unworthy of God’s care and comfort. But God accepts us just as we are, because He knows our human struggles and frailties. (He made us in His image, after all!) You are the total sum of your experiences; they’ve made you the person you are today. Take time this month to number not just blessings, but how far in life you have come — and what you have overcome — and are, through the grace of God, becoming.

—CBS

… finding time.

As winter looms closer, the days shorten. Soon (November 3, for those who like to plan ahead) Daylight Saving Time will end, initially granting us an extra hour of sleep but inevitably dooming us to nights that commence as early as our afternoon coffee breaks. The clock ticks, the calendar pages rustle, and we find ourselves counting the days until the sun again beams brightly. During this time of waiting—for the sun (and for those of you already counting the days until Christmas) THE Son—we can reassure ourselves of the constancy of God’s love for us. AND to try to meet the challenge He has issued to each of us: to love one another, regardless of circumstances and differences. This admittedly is not always easy to do. But we’ve got lots of time to work at it.

— CBS

… preparing to harvest.

Autumn is here, a time for reaping and giving thanks. Yet in looking at the torn and troubled world around us, we sometimes feel our spirits as parched as our sun-dried California lawns. God tells us, however, to not give up … that we are to be patient and do what we can, within the scope of our own influence, to make the harvest rich and plentiful for those around us. This month, look for beauty in the season’s change … and for opportunities to serve.

—CBS

…freedom and justice for all.

With freedom comes responsibility—to see that others are treated fairly and respectfully. Let freedom ring in our nation, and beyond all borders, overcoming hatred, distrust and fear.

Where the Spirit of the Lord is,
there is freedom.
— 2 Corinthians 3:17

… renewing the spirit.

Pentecost is when we remember that from centuries ago, the Spirit of God still calls to us, fills us … and empowers us to live and serve as His committed, caring, compassionate people.

Spirit of the Living God,
fall afresh on me.
Melt me, mold me
fill me, use me,
Spirit of the Living God,
fall afresh on me.

art by Rev. John “Stushie” Stuart

… acting with courage.

Be brave! When you know God is on your side, you find yourself stronger and more capable.

This month, step out of your comfort zone and stand up for something in which you truly believe.

photo by Gary Gardner