Do Better


Maya Angelou, the renowned poet and civil rights activist, eloquently expressed the wisdom of continuous growth and self-improvement with her powerful quote: “Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” This simple yet profound statement encapsulates several essential life lessons:

  1. Continuous Learning: We all start with what we know at a given moment. As we learn and gain new insights, we should apply that knowledge to improve our actions and decisions.

  2. Responsibility: The quote emphasizes personal responsibility. When we recognize our mistakes or shortcomings, it becomes our duty to make better choices moving forward.

  3. Adaptability: Life is a journey of growth. As circumstances change and we acquire fresh perspectives, we must adapt and evolve accordingly.

  4. Compassion: The quote acknowledges that we’re not perfect. Instead of dwelling on past errors, we should approach ourselves and others with compassion, recognizing that growth is a continuous process.

In essence, Maya Angelou encourages us to embrace learning, acknowledge our imperfections, and strive for positive change. 


In that same vain Maya Angelou demonstrates her humility, a life well lived, and intelligence gained by keen observation.


Everyone’s Welcome Opening Liturgy: The hospitality of God knows no bounds. The love of God is immeasurable. The generosity and favor of God is beyond our wildest dreams. We gather together today as invited ones, as beloved ones, as blessed ones: Friends, Neighbors, Siblings, Students, Co-workers & teammates. We come as individuals, yet God unites us as one. So, welcome! May we meet this God in new and surprising ways today. Amen.

“I Am A Christian” by Maya Angelou


When I say … “I am a Christian”
I’m not shouting “I’m clean livin.”

I’m whispering “I was lost, Now I’m found and forgiven.”

When I say … “I am a Christian” I don’t speak of this with pride.

I’m confessing that I stumble and need Christ to be my guide.

When I say … “I am a Christian” I’m not trying to be strong.

I’m professing that I’m weak And need His strength to carry on.

When I say … “I am a Christian” I’m not bragging of success.

I’m admitting I have failed And need God to clean my mess.

When I say … “I am a Christian” I’m not claiming to be perfect,

My flaws are far too visible But, God believes I am worth it.

When I say … “I am a Christian”

I’m not holier than thou, I’m just a simple sinner


Who received God’s good grace, somehow.

 

Here’s the Deal: Instead of looking at scripture first, I wanted to share this poem. This particular poem was read to me a couple weeks ago by a co-worker and it really made me think. Often times the statement “I am a Christian” can be misinterpreted as someone who is judgmental, better than, prideful, perfect...etc. How people view you as A Christian though can mean so much more and this poem reminds us of the humility we need in order to be a Christ follower. Jesus’ example on earth was that everyone was welcome to the table. Doesn’t matter if your rich, poor, a woman, a man, strong, weak, a failure, successful, have no friends or tons of friends.. we are all welcome to the table to feast. Even when we feel we don’t meet the “criteria” to being a good Christian, God covers us in grace and welcomes us into the family.

Activity: Read Matthew 9: 9-13 - Write down your initial thoughts to reading this poem. Do you resonate with any of the lines? - Have you ever felt like you are unworthy to be a follower of Christ? Or do you know someone who feels like they don’t belong at church for the things they have done? - Now think of Jesus at Matthew’s house for the dinner party, eating with what the culture called sinners or unwanted guests. What does that tell you about Jesus? How does it make you feel knowing Jesus welcomed everyone to the table to share a meal together? –

What are ways you can welcome and be a friend to those in your communities.

 Most people feel lonely or isolated, who is that person in your life?

How can you be a Christian in a positive light to those around you?

What are parts of your life that may look different in doing so?

Prayer: God we ask you to draw near to us. 

              God show us how to love our neighbor like you showed us. 

             Help us to care for the least of these. 

            Help us to love like you did.    




 Guide us and keep us safe. Amen 




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