Today, I am reminded of God's declaration in Psalm 46 — "Be still, and know that I am God." Years ago, my Old Testament professor recommended using that verse as a breathing meditation, taking away a word each time until you end up with simply "Be."

This week, the people and community of Zion simply "are." We have no events planned and nothing immediately pressing on our church's calendar. My hope and prayer is that you allow for hours, days, and weeks in your life simply to "be." That rhythm between work and rest/recharge ("sabbath") is what God intended for our lives.

On another brief note, today I began a five-month Non-Profit Executive Program through the Jim Moran Institute's local Fort Lauderdale office. It is an executive certificate program through JMI @ Florida State University designed to take leaders through the intricacies of improving their non-profit organizations — covering everything from strategic planning and board governance to fundraising and marketing. I applied, and was accepted, as a representative of Zion, and have a responsibility to take what I learn and apply it to the "business" of our church. So, stay tuned! If you hear me talking about "that Jim Moran program" or "JMI," know that I'm taking time over these next five months to work for the good of our church, as well as gain new skills for myself. It's a win-win for all of us.

See you in worship!

Cantor Kurt R. Schmidt

Don't make dinner plans and come as you are! We enjoy some delicious food and one another's fellowship. We each pay our own way, but everyone is invited to the table — friends, family members, and neighbors!