By the rivers of Babylon —
there we sat down and there we wept
when we remembered Zion.On the willows there
we hung up our harps.For there our captors asked us for songs,
and our tormentors asked for mirth, saying,
“Sing us one of the songs of Zion!”How could we sing the Lord’s song in a foreign land?
-Psalm 137:1-4, NRSV
These days
I feel
I am in exile
In my own land
I am silent
Unable to sing
The songs of the Holy One
The songs of my heart
I feel like a stranger
In this foreign land
I thought I knew
How can I sing
When churches
Vote on the worth of God’s beloved
When xenophobia
And misogyny
Have taken up residence
In the seats of power
When hate
Walks proudly down the street
In the light of day
How can I sing
The Lord’s song
In this foreign land?
#strangerinmyownland
All the Wonders 
Oh, yes! You articulate a deep pain I’ve been carrying!
Blessings in all you do ~ Courtney Spear, MA, MM Certified Psychologist w Autonomous Functioning (101257) Ordained Deacon – KY Conference United Methodist Church Valley Hope Centre 129 Second Street Vanceburg, KY. 41179-1001 606-796-6400
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Thank you, Courtney. Blessings to you.
These are hard days. Thanks for putting into words what I believe is the feeling of a great many. Praying for the church in the days ahead that more will see the truth that God’s love is for all, and that the UMC should be for all. May you always feel His love wrapped around you when these days cause you such grief. Praying for you. Lynn
Thank you so much for these words and for your prayers. Holding us all in prayer in these days. ❤
Wow…just wow Beth. This hits so many nails on the head for oh so many reasons… holding all in my heart and prayers. Your gifts are sacred and holy my friend – thanks for your willingness to open a window to your soul. ♥️🤗
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| | | Beth,Your writing is absolutely beautiful and so full of Truth. May God give you a peaceful spirit in these days of exile. Blessings and peace,(Rev) Linda DemingSun City West, AZretired, N Illinois Conference
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Thank you, Linda. I am honored to share my words in these days.
Beth, as always, you seem to address the feelings of my heart. Thank you.
God be with you. Ellasue
Thank you.
Beautifully written. Sad that it needed to be written.