Community Prayer Guide | June 2021

Darla Beardsley June 1, 2021

Each month we receive an updated Community Prayer Guide from One Hope ministry network that helps the church draw near to God and pray for various areas of our city life together. We invite you to take time to join hundreds of people who are praying each month for 10 strategic areas that shape our community's culture.

Community Prayer Guide June 2021

“I urge you, brothers and sisters, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit,
to join me in my struggle by praying to God for me.”
Romans 15:30

Church
Pray for God’s love, power and joy to fill every pastor and their family.
Pray for the leadership of every local church to received renewed direction & grace to lead Jesus’ church.
Pray for local pastors & churches to love each other more & more, and be unified as Jesus & the Father are.

Education
Pray for the many job openings in the school districts to be filled with high-quality, Jesus-loving teachers who bring salt, light and solutions into schools.
Pray for summer programs to be effective in bringing students up to speed in their learning; pray that students access these opportunities.
Pray for many churches to begin new partnerships with schools; and that they have wisdom to plan strategically this summer to effectively serve next school year.

Government
Pray for God to direct government, church and non-profit efforts to effectively shepherd people who are homeless; pray their efforts would unify, and not further divide our community.
Pray for God’s wisdom to be upon every local governments’ mayors, commissioners, councils and staff.
Pray for the increase and effectiveness of transitional, supportive housing for homeless adults and families.
Pray for the Lord to guide Lane County leaders & staff as they assist the Holiday Farm Fire rebuilding efforts.

Business
Pray for business & government leaders to find effective ways to increase the local housing supply.
Pray for business leaders to have God’s wisdom to lead now, and into a post pandemic paradigm.
Pray for the local “workplace:” health, encouragement, good morale and healthy productivity.
Pray for more workers to enter into the workforce; pray for the right workers/businesses to find each other.

“I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me.
I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one.”
John 17:20-22

“And seek the peace of the city where I have caused you to be carried away captive, and pray to the LORD for it; for in its peace you will have peace.”
Jeremiah 29:7-8

Arts
Pray for high school students to have hope and vision for their futures as artists, and that they receive encouragement from their communities.
Pray for the CAFA Art Show in July: for the art pieces to communicate God’s heart, and for people to see how they can contribute to the healing process in our community.
Pray for God to inspire Jesus-following artist to create pieces about issues our community is passionate about, while also reflecting God’s character.

Family
Pray for peace and harmony in family relationships and homes.
Pray for God to strengthen marriages with joy, agape love, and good communication.
Pray for parents to discern truth and have wisdom to lead their kids in life and in the education system.
Pray for families to engage in healthy activities, relationships and affordable resources that strengthen them.

Health Care
Pray for God to empower health care providers (HCPs) to have stamina, courage and provide hope.
Pray for HCPs to have wisdom to reach all local populations, bringing healing in crisis.
Pray for God’s healing hand & wisdom to be upon COVID-19 treatments and the administration of the vaccine.
Pray for Jesus-following HCPs to demonstrate Jesus’ peace and words to staff, colleagues and patients.

Police & Fire Departments
Pray for God’s wisdom and plans to lead the Oregon State Legislature as they consider police reform.
Pray for First Responders to be “ambassadors of peace,” bringing peace to every situation.
Pray for the wisdom, peace and safety of those serving in our police and fire departments.
Pray for the Lord’s love, peace and blessing upon the families of our first responders.
Pray for God to move people of noble character to apply and be hired as first responders.

Media
Pray for the staff and volunteers who run KLCC radio to be guided by God’s presence.
Pray for local radio, newspapers and television to release stories that highlight virtue and character.
Pray that the local media would be empowered to report true stories that build trust.

Sports
Pray for God’s hand to be on the NCAA Track and Field Championships & the Olympic Track and Field Trials.
Pray for God to lead the plans & community preparations for the World Athletics Championships in July 2022.
Pray for wisdom & blessing on all local youth sports organizations: schools, Kidsports, YMCA, Little League, etc.

“pray continually…”
1 Thessalonians 5:17

Find answers to prayer on our website: onehopenetwork.org/testimonies.

Resilient | The Resilience of Resurrection

Sara Gore May 21, 2021

I recently re-watched the action movie Captain Marvel and found this gem of a spiritual lesson:

Due to a jet-plane crash and the resulting explosion, US Air Force Pilot Carol Danvers absorbs super-human powers. These powers enable her to fly, shoot photon blasts from her hands, and to be mostly indestructible.

But she does not know she has these powers until the final conflict of the film. She is fighting the Kree military, who she thought were her teammates, but were actually her kidnappers and captors. As she fights to escape the force field that restrains her, the supreme leader of the Kree race taunts her with lies.

Kree Leader: “We found you. Embraced you as our own.”

Carol Danvers: “You stole me from my home, my family, my friends.”

Kree Leader: “But remember, without us you’re weak. You’re flawed. Helpless. We saved you.
Without us, you’re only human.”

Carol Danvers: “You’re right. I’m only human.”

This statement from the main character, Carol, is said sarcastically.

And at this point, the movie shows a montage of memories from Carol’s childhood, young adulthood, and military basic training.

Baseball Teammate: “Give it up, Carol! This ain’t a game for little girls.”
“You’re too emotional and too weak.”

Playground Bully: (After being roughed up and pushed to the ground by the bully.
“Stay down!”

Air Force Cadet: “You don’t belong out here. They’ll never let you fly.”

Air Force Officer: (After she falls from the top of a very tall, wooden climbing wall.)
“Are you trying to kill yourself?”
“You won’t last a week, Danvers.”

Whatever lies they used to discourage her into giving up, they couldn’t take away her God-given ability to get up and try again. They couldn’t take away her hopeful expectation.

This truth empowers me to reject situations that would try to deceive me into thinking I am anything less than a child of God--with an eternal future containing His fulfilled promises for me.

And each time she stood up again, she stood taller and stronger. She had a greater sense of who God made her to be. She was more determined to try again and succeed.

I get goosebumps every time I watch this part of the movie. And I thought, what could make a person be that resilient? I found my answer in Isaiah 53:

Isaiah 53:2,3 NLT:
“My servant grew up in the Lord’s presence like a tender green shoot, like a root in dry ground. There was nothing beautiful or majestic about his appearance, nothing to attract us to Him.
...He was despised and rejected – a man of sorrows and acquainted with deepest grief. We turned our backs on Him and looked the other way. He was despised, and we did not care.”

Isaiah: 53:7 NLT
“He was oppressed and treated harshly, yet he never said a word.”

These verses help me remember that Jesus faced tremendous adversity and rejection, through-out his entire life, not just at the end.

Isaiah 53:10,11 NLT
“But it was the Lord’s good plan to crush Him, and cause Him grief…And because of His experience, my righteous servant will make it possible for many to be counted righteous, for He will bear all their sins.”

As I read further, I am reminded how He sacrificed Himself to give all people, including me, His resurrection life, to last us every day of our lives. I realize this gift of resurrection life from Christ is what enables me to stand up again in the face of adversity. I get right back up after a fall, to keep following Him and His example of a resilient life! I want to continue on the teachable path where Christ is leading me!

Philippians 3:10,11 TPT
“And I continually long to know the wonders of Jesus and to experience the overflowing power of His resurrection working in me. I will be one with Him in His sufferings and become like Him in His death. Only then will I be able to experience complete oneness with Him in His resurrection from the realm of death.”

My battles are already won! I will still experience difficult times, but I can be comforted in His assurance that He will be with me through all of my trials and tribulations. And He will protect me so that I will ultimately live with Him in His eternal Kingdom!

Christ and His resilient life-example is my hope and my salvation! I will continue to stand back up again to follow Him. Will you join me?

About the Author

Sara has attended CitySalt Church since 2004, the year it was founded. She studied Journalism, wrote for her college newspaper, and is a member of Oregon Christian Writers. Sara also enjoys singing hymns with friends: “there is a sermon in every hymn waiting to be discovered and enjoyed.”

Resilient | The Gift of Surviving

Jessie Carter May 7, 2021

2 Corinthians 4:16-18
Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

I am not the best person to write about resilience in the face of all the challenges we’ve had this last year. I’ve barely survived. Currently, I’m at my heaviest adult weight from all the stress/loneliness/working-my-day-job-too-close-to-my-kitchen eating (as well as the lack of chasing students around a school). I am missing my class, and am wondering if my friendships will survive the polarization of politics. I’m limping along on this crazy, slow-motion, surreal marathon that I know has an end but isn’t in sight yet. I’m still moving forward, I think. Barely. By the grace of God.

But maybe that’s the point. Maybe resilience is a gift from God. I sure couldn’t craft it, despite all my best attempts this last year to help myself survive pandemic and polarization with various gimmicks and plans like hosting Zoom game nights, convincing friends to let me come over and watch the movies you have to have streaming services for, and writing a short story and silly posts in my personal blog.

Truth is, even if I’m sick of working from home and can only fit into 3/5 of my wardrobe, at least I have clothes and a home to keep them in. I’m still frustrated with the world and feel like people are overreacting and overcorrecting each other and making things worse instead of working together. But God keeps reminding me that He’s still in control. Even if WWIII or a new Civil War breaks out, which is kind of my biggest fear these days besides being stuck in distance teaching forever, I know He’ll still be helping us crazy humans. Because He’s crazy about us.

In case you can’t tell, humor is one of the ways I’ve been coping. When I lived in Afghanistan, my coworkers and I developed a bit of dark humor. You kind of have to, to survive in a place where you practice insurgent drills with your students instead of fire drills. It’s happening again for me now. Lately, I’ve been grateful for things like reruns of M*A*S*H where the characters survive the mental stress of war by making fun of it, and by their companionship and community. I am so grateful for all the friends and family that have gracefully let me call them constantly.

So here I’ll refer you to a real article about resilience written by our own CitySalt friend, Chris. His alter ego, Professor Popinjay, knows a thing or two about using humor (and reliance on God and the people He puts in our path) to develop resilience. Normally he writes for the Springfield-based Free For All newspaper, but this one was published in my friends’ online literary magazine, Illumine: Collective Light. Enjoy!

https://illumine.collectivelight.org/2020/01/02/resilience-its-not-just-for-masked-vigilantes-anymore/

About the Author

Jessie is an educator, she currently teaches teens and has taught overseas. She is also a novice writer, with several books in various stages and a (long-neglected) blog about the journeys of women. She is very excited to be a part of the CitySalt blog team. She has been blessed by a few communities of Christian writers that have encouraged her dream. She lives with her trusty sidekick cat, Arwen in the foothills of South Eugene, where she can go hiking within minutes of the sun coming out from behind the clouds.

Community Prayer Guide | May 2021

Darla Beardsley May 1, 2021

Community Prayer Guide May 2021

“There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells.”
Psalm 46:4

Church
Pray for every Jesus-follower in our community to actively represent Jesus in word and deed.
Pray for every Jesus-follower in our community to “have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that (we) may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.” Ephesians 3:18-19

Education
Pray for school districts to have God’s wisdom to steward the stimulus dollars they receive.
Pray for Jesus-followers to be hired by schools; pray that they shine with God’s presence & truth.
Pray for students, teachers and parents to reflect on the year with joy and celebration, having overcome.
Pray for students and staff to be protected from COVID-19, so that uninterrupted learning can continue through the end of school year.

Government
Pray for God’s solutions to direct government and non-profit efforts to shepherd the homeless crisis.
Pray for God’s wisdom to be upon every local governments’ mayors, commissioners, councils and staff.
Pray for an increase of transitional, supportive housing for adults and families experiencing homelessness.
Pray for the Lord to guide Lane County leaders & staff as they assist Holiday Farm Fire rebuilding efforts.

Business
Pray for God to provide many more housing options in our community.
Pray for business leaders to have God’s wisdom to lead now, and into a post-pandemic paradigm.
Pray for the local workplace: health, encouragement, good morale and healthy productivity.
Pray for strength, perseverance and joy for business leaders.

“Great is the LORD, and most worthy of praise, in the city of our God, his holy mountain.”
Psalm 48:1

“As we have heard, so we have seen in the city of the LORD Almighty, in the city of our God:
God makes her secure forever.”
Psalm 48:8

Arts
Pray for local art shows to experience God’s blessing, creativity and wisdom.
Pray for provision and guidance for those who lead “Art City” and the Hult Center.
Pray for Jesus-following writers to create new and inspired storybooks for children.
Pray for high school and college art students to be inspired by the Lord and encouraged to pursue their gifts.

Family
Pray for parents to discern truth and have wisdom to lead their kids in life and in the education system.
Pray for peace and harmony in family relationships and homes.
Pray for God to strengthen marriages with joy, agape love, and good communication.
Pray for families to engage in healthy activities, relationships and resources that strengthen them.

Health Care
Pray for blessing & wisdom to be upon Serenity Lane as they heal those dealing with substance abuse.
Pray for God to empower health care providers (HCPs) to heal people suffering with mental health issues.
Pray for Jesus-following HCPs to listen well, and then be sensitive & ready to speak about God’s love & truth.
Pray for God’s healing hand & wisdom to be upon COVID-19 treatments and the administration of the vaccine.
Pray for local nursing homes to be opened for families to visit, while remaining safe from the virus.

Police & Fire Departments
Pray for God’s wisdom and plans to lead the Oregon State Legislature as they consider police reform.
Pray for First Responders to be “ambassadors of peace,” bringing peace to every situation.
Pray for the wisdom, peace and safety of those serving in our police and fire departments.
Pray for the Lord’s love, peace and blessing to be upon the families of our first responders.
Pray for God to move people of noble character to apply and be hired as first responders.

Media
Pray for truthful, fair and accurate reporting in all areas of local media.
Pray for local radio, newspapers and television to release stories that highlight virtue and character.
Pray that the local media would be used to promote stories of hope that help build-up the community.

Sports
Pray for God’s guidance wisdom for all coaches in all sports: youth, high school and college.
Pray for wisdom & blessing on all local youth sports organizations: schools, Kidsports, YMCA,
Little League, etc.
Pray for God to lead the plans for the Olympic Track & Field trials this June, and the World Athletics Championships in July 2022.

“Within your temple, O God, we meditate on your unfailing love.
Like your name, O God, your praise reaches to the ends of the earth.”
Psalm 48:9-10a

Find answers to prayer on our website: onehopenetwork.org/testimonies.

Resilient | Resilience is Hope

Mark Beardsley April 23, 2021

I don’t think of myself as resilient.

When I consider resilience, I think of Mother Teresa taking care of the sick. Or of Gandhi being beaten by English guards without raising his hand in defense. I think of Congressman John Lewis, marching across the Edmund Pettus bridge in support of civil rights and being beaten by police and thrown to jail, yet continuing to fight.

But, I was reminded today by one of my favorite webcomics that resilience can also be just getting out of bed in the morning. Getting to work on time. Getting the laundry done. Reading a story to your kid when all you want to do is lie down and take a nap.

In the past, I have lost a job. I have lost friends and loved ones. I have felt alone and miserable and without hope. And yet I do keep going, in spite of these things.

So I ask myself, “what does resilience mean to me?” Suffering loss and continuing on with your life. Loving again, in spite of being hurt. Moving on from tragedy and bad circumstances. Standing up after being knocked down. Resilience is the strength to continue the struggle long after others have given up. Resilience is hope. Hope for something more. Hope for something better.

I know I rely on my wife, family and friends for support through life’s trials and tragedies, but I also know that God has given me the gift of these connections to sustain me.

I think of Jesus in the garden Gethsemane, praying to His Father.

Mark 14:32-36
They went to a place called Gethsemane, and Jesus said to his disciples, “Sit here while I pray.” He took Peter, James and John along with him, and he began to be deeply distressed and troubled. “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death,” he said to them. “Stay here and keep watch.”

Going a little farther, he fell to the ground and prayed that if possible the hour might pass from him. “Abba, Father,” he said, “everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.”

Even Jesus brings his friends along for support in his time of need. Even Jesus faced distress and trouble. His Father is also my Father. And yours. Our Father is there for us in our times of fear, depression and need. He is why we can be resilient in the face of terrible things. This faith in these hard times can sustain us all.

2 Corinthians 4:8-9
We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed.

About the Author

Mark lives in Oregon with his lovely wife, Darla and enjoys reading, writing, playing games and working to make the world a better place. He currently serves CitySalt church as a sound engineer and on the church council.

Resilient | Walking with Resilience

Terry Sheldon April 9, 2021

Today we bring to you a new blog theme, Resilient. The word "resilient" has Latin roots and means "capable of withstanding shock without permanent deformation or rupture." Many of us are feeling weary and broken after a long year of pandemic life full of social isolation, job losses, school closures, sickness and mental health issues. Resilience can help us forge a path to healing and recovery. Our blog team offers their ideas for how we can build resilience through our faith journeys.

We all like the idea of resiliency because, well, it's a good character trait, right? I get the feeling that resilience is not celebrated enough in our society, like it's the Rodney Dangerfield of suffering. Ok maybe it gets some respect for a while, but the longer we merely endure and not conquer our issues, we can succumb to an inevitable "loser stigma,” at least in our own minds.

We Americans are taught to fight and win. Is it at best, a hollow victory to merely bend, but not break? To be on the ropes for a while makes for good social theatre, or a Rocky movie, but the true star fights hard and avoids the death blow, then erupts in a sudden and dramatic turnaround victory. Yeah and pass the popcorn!

But this is real life.

And too often that life feels like a protracted foxhole struggle, with what seems like victory not assured. It can last and last ... and last. It can wear us down. And a resolution is likely not in our preferred way, or in our convenient time. Resilience can be birthed in trouble, but let's dig deeper.

Trauma hurts, but we don't have to wallow in suffering. We all know hard times can develop deep character traits, but only if we go through it with our head up and heart open. Entertaining its emotional depths without some perspective and ultimately, a positive response, is a very dark path to walk.

We all need some help.

Recently within my own journey, I've begun to notice someone. I look back and he is there, wanting to catch up. I am hurting, and I slow down. We share a smile and keep walking. He offers a few words and a smile, and I realize I might like his company. We small-talk a bit, then are quiet. I gaze up at the sunlight streaming through the forest canopy above. I breathe and give myself permission to feel. He feels like a friend.

He randomly brings up elasticity. I am curious why. He says he is kind of stubborn at times, with a clench-fisted toughness. He says this has seemed like a good way to be resilient, but flexibility is a better way. I joke that it's why cats have nine lives. My new friend laughs, and of course I am pleased at that.

He continues: Like a rubber band, we stretch out as we are pulled in different directions by forces beyond our control. But with elasticity, we return to our relaxed center - back to our core. I tell him I like the kind of "naturally, creative longevity" of that.

So now we're on the topic of resiliency, I guess. I mention a boat on the water. When it's calm, I say, it can be the picture of perfect serenity, but when a storm blows in - everything changes. Resiliency is our boat. It's built to bob and heave in the swells and waves. Our buoyancy allows us to stay above the tempest and not capsize!

I didn't plan on such a discussion with a stranger, but now we're getting somewhere.

I feel a twinge of pain in my lower leg and mention I'm trying to get it back to the way it used to be. He compliments me: But you're still hiking - that's great and recovery is coming! I tell him I hope so.

As we walk and talk, I realize that the cliche about it not being the destination, but the journey - is incomplete. Both are important. I thank him for walking with me and tell him I think we should all resolve to live, and even thrive, in our own resiliency. The tough lessons of the journey will make the destination that much sweeter, right? I look over but "Mr. Resiliency" has vanished. And I realize why. Someone else needs his friendship.

I love how Jesus shows up.

Resiliency is the long footbridge from despair to hope. Let's discover elasticity, buoyancy and recover. Grab a friend and walk.

Romans 5:4
"And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation."

About the Author

Terry is a man in constant motion to explore new horizons. He has a thirst for new places and faces, and a deep love for the natural world - with a weakness for waterfalls and sunsets. All of this venturing out helps to both ground and inspire him, because it opens him up to people, with their vast, collective array of experiences, outlooks and responses.

He finds all of this fascinating and sees that it has encouraged the growth of something crucial in his Christian development: empathy and compassion toward his brothers and sisters on this planet.

Community Prayer Guide | April 2021

Darla Beardsley April 1, 2021

Community Prayer Guide April 2021

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy;
I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
John 10:10

Church
Pray for new believers to be drawn to, well connected and discipled in local churches.
Pray for every pastor and church ministry team to have God’s wisdom and power to lead like Jesus.
Pray for the power of the Holy Spirit to be poured out on Jesus-followers & all people in our community.

Education
Pray for God to lead the process and selection of the next Springfield Superintendent.
Pray for Jesus-followers to be hired by local schools; pray they serve with peace and influence.
Pray for more quality counselors to be hired to meet the mental health needs of students, families & teachers.
Pray for the “recovery learning” process that will take place as students return: for creative strategies, patience, and peace to help students catch up.

Government
Pray for God’s wisdom to be upon every local governments’ mayors, commissioners, councils and staff.
Pray for Community Safety: for wise & well-coordinated efforts among local police, Cahoots & other agencies.
Pray for the increase and effectiveness of transitional, supportive housing for homeless adults and families.
Pray for God’s blessing and guidance for more youth emergency housing.

Business
Pray for God to provide more affordable housing options in our community.
Pray for business leaders to have God’s wisdom to lead now and into a post pandemic paradigm.
Pray for the local “workplace:” health, encouragement, good morale and healthy productivity.
Pray for an abundant supply and a fast vaccine distribution so business can reopen.

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” John 10:11

“I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me.” John 10:14

Arts
Pray God’s blessing on local Christian Dance studios and ministries.
Pray for Jesus-following writers to create new and inspired storybooks for children.
Pray for provision and guidance for those who lead the Lane Arts Council & the Actors Cabaret.
Pray for God to touch the hearts of community members through the CAFA art show this Spring.

Family
Pray for God to strengthen marriages with joy, agape love, and good communication.
Pray for parents to discern truth and have wisdom to lead their kids in life and in the education system.
Pray for families to engage in healthy activities, relationships and resources that strengthen them.

Health Care
Pray for God to empower medical professionals (HCPs) to heal people suffering with mental health issues.
Pray for wisdom & blessing on the new leadership of Peace Health and the Lane County Medical Society.
Pray for HCPs to bring peace & provide true, accurate vaccine information in the midst of misinformation.
Pray for God’s healing hand & wisdom to be upon COVID-19 treatments and the administration of the vaccine.
Pray for Dove Medical, our local pregnancy center, to bring hope and peace as they expand their services.

Police & Fire Departments
Pray for the Lord’s love, peace and blessing upon the families of our first responders.
Pray for the wisdom, peace and safety of those serving in our police and fire departments.
Pray for First Responders to be “ambassadors of peace,” bringing peace to every situation.
Pray for God’s wisdom and plans to lead the Oregon State Legislature as they consider police reform.
Pray for God to move people of noble character to apply and be hired as first responders.

Media
Pray for God’s Spirit to draw the hearts of local media leaders to follow Jesus.
Pray for the staff of the Register Guard and the Eugene Weekly newspapers to be guided by the Lord.
Pray for God’s hand to be on local TV and radio stations to cultivate greater community understanding.

Sports
Pray for wisdom & blessing on all local youth sports organizations: schools, Kidsports, YMCA, Little League, etc.
Pray for God’s guidance for high school/college athletic programs, as they decide how and when to compete.
Pray for God to lead the plans for the Olympic Track & Field trials this June, and the World Athletics Championships in July 2022.

“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” John 10:27

Find answers to prayer on our website: onehopenetwork.org/testimonies.

Love Your Enemies | How Do We Confront the Enemy Within?

Ursula Crawford March 12, 2021

When I taught a middle school writing class, I taught my students about the types of conflict that exist in stories. We learned body motions to go along with each type of conflict to help us remember. Every story has a conflict, both a protagonist and an antagonist. Person versus person is the most common type of conflict — think Cinderella versus her evil stepfamily. Person versus their environment is another one that can come up — Little Red Riding Hood versus the Big Bad Wolf. Conflict with the supernatural can be seen in stories like the Lord of the Rings. And finally, we have internal conflict, when a character’s primary conflict is with themself.

Something I’ve been pondering lately are the ways in which we can be our own worst enemies.

I think this may be the case more than we realize. While other people typically don’t care enough about us to put much energy towards actively opposing our interests, we can easily do this to ourselves. We may be able to avoid a neighbor we dislike, but we are always around to oppose or even sabotage ourselves.

I am my own enemy when I engage my mind in unhealthy comparison with others. I often find myself comparing myself to others in unflattering ways when it comes to my career, my parenting, my home, or anything else that I’m focused on at the time. Instead of appreciating myself for the strengths I have, I compare myself to friends with doctorate degrees and fancy houses and feel that I’ve fallen short. I tell myself that I should have made different choices in the past — gotten a science degree or maybe a law degree or a PhD in literature. On the other hand, I might compare myself to a stay-at-home mom friend who has more children than I do and who still seems sane, with children who listen to her and have clean clothes and brushed hair, and then feel that I’m falling short as a parent.

I need to practice loving myself by not making these kinds of destructive comparisons. One thing I’ve done to help counter this is to stop using social media. I can also choose not to dwell on these types of thoughts and try to bring my thoughts back to the present moment, grounding myself in gratitude for the blessings I do have. I’ve read that Olympic silver medalists are often unhappier than bronze medalists because they are focused on the gold medal they didn’t win, while bronze medalists are happy just to be on the podium.

Romans 12:2
“Be not conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

We can be our own enemies when we tell ourselves the wrong story, like in the above example about how I tell myself I should have made different career choices in the past. This is harmful as well as not being very accurate. Instead, I could recognize the truth, which is that I am and have always been very hard working in both my personal and professional life. If I don’t have a big paycheck or a compliant, hair-brushed child to show for it, and my house looks like a tornado has recently blown through, then that’s just the way it is. Even when we’ve made genuinely poor choices that have actually been harmful, we have to seek forgiveness and move on, if not we become locked in our own mind prison. Again, I believe that practicing gratitude is key to stop ourselves from ruminating on unhealthy stories about ourselves.

We can also be our own enemies when we assume the worst in others, as this can sabotage our relationships when continued over time. I have a friend who communicates only via text message with a family member that he dislikes. He has read text messages to me from this person that seem completely neutral to me, but to him they seem to be full of negative intent. This was confusing to me as it’s impossible to read someone’s underlying intentions in a text message, with no facial expressions or even tone of voice to provide clues. I wonder if this relationship could be restored if my friend just started assuming neutral intent in these communications.

In general, it’s best not to take things personally and to assume neutral or even positive intent in our relationships with others. I’m very sensitive, but I’m trying to take this advice to heart and assume that even if someone seems rude, it’s not about me. There are a hundred different reasons someone may interact with me in a way that seems rude: they could be tired, hungry, sick, depressed, worried about something else, have poor self-control, or just be unaware of the way they come across to others. We should work to assume the best in others.

Even when someone is direct about telling us they dislike us, it may say more about them than it does about us. We don’t have to choose to focus on it. In high school, I heard that another girl disliked me because of the brand of shoes I wore. Did I hold a giant grudge against this person, or switch the brand of shoes I wore to something that might not offend her? I did neither — I felt that someone who didn’t know me and disliked me for such a silly reason was not worthy of my concern. But I bring this up now to say that people will judge us and dislike us for all sorts of reasons in our lives. We can be our own enemies when we fail to fully live because we fear other people’s opinions. We should live our lives the best we can regardless of the judgements of others. I’m reminded of the following quote:

“It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena...who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly.”

~Theodore Roosevelt

About the Author

Ursula and her husband Spencer have two young children, and their family enjoys playing hide-and-seek and dancing in the living room. She works as a communications and events coordinator with the University of Oregon.

You can read more from Ursula at motherbearblog.com.

Hybrid Approach to CitySalt Sunday Services | March 7, 2021

Dusty Johnson March 2, 2021

CitySalt Church,

We are coming upon the one-year anniversary of our first live-streamed service! Can you believe it was March 15th, 2020 that John, Dusty, and Mike sat at bistro tables in front of Dusty’s iPhone attempting our first Facebook live video? We have learned a ton since then, maybe more than we ever wanted to know about Zoom, live streams, and handwashing.

We would like to take this opportunity to update you on our current “when” and “how” plans for what we are calling a “hybrid” approach to CitySalt Sunday Services in the weeks ahead.

There have been many ups and downs this last year regarding churches, that include questions about the legality of limiting worship gatherings and the safety of meeting indoors. CitySalt has continued to opt to engage virtually for our Sunday services, knowing that our community is strong and that gathering in a common space, while wonderful and beautiful, is not the only means to worship Jesus.

That said, we do dream of the day we get to all worship together in the same space! We want to walk in-step with the Oregon Health Authority’s (OHA) recommendations for gatherings, sanitization, masks, and physical distance, as well as their analysis of positive COVID cases in our area. After all, we as the church can be the “experts” on loving God, loving our neighbors, studying scripture, and prayer; and we can let the epidemiologists study the spread of infectious disease and give guidance to mitigating any unnecessary risks associated with public gatherings.

As Lane County has regularly landed in the most extreme risk category for positive COVID cases per 100,000, we have all lived with restrictions on our regular routines. As of last week, we have moved out of this “Extreme Risk” category (>200 cases per 100,000) to the next category, “High Risk” (100-200 cases per 100,000). We started seeing restaurants begin to open for indoor dining, gyms increase their capacity, and even schools making arrangements to welcome students.

So what does that mean for CitySalt?

To the question of WHEN:

Our goal has been to begin Hybrid Sunday Evening Services when Lane County moves from “Extreme Risk” to “High Risk” categories according to the OHA metrics as listed above. Now that we have met this benchmark we will begin these services! Last Sunday (February 28th) we explored with the “walk through communion service” in our space, and this coming weekend (March 7th) our regular 5:30 Sunday Service will be in the “Hybrid” format. This is short notice. Our heart is to maintain our commitment to quality online services while welcoming folks to join in person at The Box.

These first “Phase 1” services will look different from the last time we worshiped together in person. And future phases of reopening will look different from this first phase. As we are a community together, we ask for your grace as we explore this new territory.

To the question of HOW:

Here is what to expect with our Hybrid Service Reopening Plan:

Service starts at 5:30, doors open at 5:15
Those in attendance will be documented, for the intent of contact tracing
Masks will be required at all times
Live-stream cameras will be on the stage area and around the room (you may be seen on the live-streamed broadcast)
Chairs will be arranged to accommodate household groups at least 6 feet apart
No Kids Ministry or Childcare will be provided during these services
- If your child is interested in participating in the “adult” service and can remain seated with their mask on they are welcome to attend
- If not, consider partners coming on alternate weeks so that the kids can stay home
- CitySalt Kids Ministry will continue monthly zoom parties and other projects
No food or drinks will be provided
A cleaning team will sanitize with The Box with EPA recommended cleaners prior to the doors opening
Music -- Will still be a part of our services
- Depending on who is leading worship, we may have teams live in The Box or live-streamed from home projected on the overhead screens
- Worship leaders who are live in The Box will maintain a 20-foot distance from front row seats and may remove their masks while singing
- The congregation is encouraged to sing while keeping a mask over the mouth and nose

Final Remarks:

We hope this outline helps you know “what” we have been watching for to initiate this new phase, and “how” you can expect the in-person portion of a worship service to look. It will be strange, it will be different, but there is no other church body we’d rather be taking on this challenge with than with all of you. Being the church, and worship itself, is a community endeavor. We are in this together no matter what room(s) we are in.

While some of us will be gathering at The Box, we will continue to prioritize our online participation. For those at home, please, continue to engage with Facebook comments, Big Table Sunday Zoom Fellowships, Kids Ministry Zoom Parties, and virtual small groups. You are absolutely a crucial part of our CitySalt body!

As the country makes its way back to normal and we get closer to the day we can safely gather in person, indoors, singing our hearts out without masks, and embracing each other with holy hugs. We are on a timeline that we don’t get to control, and we’ll phase back one step at a time--with grace, generous assumptions, and love for one another.

Grace and Peace,
CitySalt Church Leadership Team

Further Helpful Information from the Oregon Health Authority:

OHA Covid-19 Current Risk Level by County Map

OHA Guidance Chart based on Sector and Risk Level

Community Prayer Guide | March 2021

Darla Beardsley March 1, 2021

Community Prayer Guide March 2021

“I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.”
John 17:23

Church
Pray for the Lord to give local Jesus-following churches unity, so that Jesus can be known & followed by all.
Pray for every pastor and leadership team to have the Lord’s direction in preparing for Easter celebrations.
Pray for unity in every local church: to be filled with the Spirit to focus on and follow Jesus daily.

Education
Pray for peace and clear information about the vaccine for all educators; that it will not be a divisive issue.
Pray for students to have resiliency and motivation to return to new classroom environments.
Pray for educators to have hope, joy, and creative ideas as students return.
Pray for every classroom to overflow with the God’s peace and goodness.
Pray for innovative and engaging outreach strategies to high schoolers, bringing hope and purpose where they feel loss, especially for athletes.

Government
Pray for God’s wisdom upon every local governments’ mayors, commissioners, councils and staff.
Pray for Community Safety: for wise & well-coordinated efforts among local police, Cahoots & other agencies.
Pray for county, city, business, church and non-profit leaders to work collaboratively for community solutions.
Pray for the effective implementation of the “homeless systems transformation,” and for wisdom to guide the community’s efforts for more youth emergency housing.

Business
Pray for business leaders to have God’s wisdom to lead now and into a post pandemic paradigm.
Pray for God to help businesses most impacted by the shutdown (restaurants, gyms, hotels, etc.).
Pray for the local “workplace:” health, encouragement, good morale and healthy productivity.
Pray for a healthy and fast vaccine distribution so business can reopen.

“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity! …For there the LORD has commanded the blessing, life forevermore.”
Psalm 133:1,3b

“The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; he LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.”
Numbers 6:24-26

Arts
Pray for local artists to remain encouraged and find new ways to create and display art.
Pray for students to remain engaged in the arts & for teachers to discover new ways to perform.
Pray for provision and guidance for those who lead the Very Little Theater and local art galleries.
Pray for God to touch the hearts of community members through the CAFA art show this Spring.

Health Care
Pray for HCPs to bring peace & provide true, accurate vaccine information in the midst of misinformation.
Pray for God’s healing hand & wisdom to be upon COVID-19 treatments and the administration of the vaccine.
Pray for local medical leadership to remain healthy & hopeful, while embracing peace, wisdom & truth.
Pray for Dove Medical, our local pregnancy center, to bring hope and peace as they expand their services.

Police & Fire Departments
Pray for the Lord’s love, peace and blessing upon the families of our first responders.
Pray for the endurance, wisdom, peace and safety of those serving in our police and fire departments.
Pray for First Responders to be “ambassadors of peace,” bringing peace to every situation.
Pray for God’s wisdom and plans to lead the Oregon State Legislature as they consider police reform.
Pray for more first responders to be hired, and for those hired to be of noble character.

Sports
Pray for God to lead the plans for the Olympic Track & Field trials this June, and the World Athletics Championships in July 2022.
Pray for wisdom & blessing on all local youth sports organizations: schools, Kidsports, YMCA, Little League, etc.
Pray for God’s guidance for high school/college athletic programs, as they decide how and when to compete.

“Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the LORD for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.”
Jeremiah 29:7

Find answers to prayer on our website: onehopenetwork.org/testimonies.

Love Your Enemies | Generous Assumptions

Terry Sheldon February 26, 2021

Lately I've been fascinated by our modern cultural definition of “enemies.” In perhaps more raw and uncivilized times in our history, an enemy literally meant a physical threat or actual harm. Certainly people do still experience terror and violence from others, but now it seems in our Western culture, more often than not our enemies are “only” people we disagree with (on social media), and from a distance - someone we don't even know!

A root word keeps reappearing in my thinking as I walk forward - assumptions. I want to learn more, I want God to teach me more about how we think. How our thoughts affect our ideas, our speech and ultimately our actions towards others. It appears our objective conclusions aren’t so, well, objective...

Remember the ancient fable of the three blind men and the elephant? Having never encountered one before, each of them touches one specific part of the huge beast. All three quarrel with the other because each thinks he knows what it is based entirely on his own limited experience. And all three are wrong.

In our own attempt to make sense of our world, we constantly do the same. We filter our judgments through our limited experiences, and worse, distort them even more with latent pessimism, cynicism, and tragically misplaced anger. Ignorance is a killer, and not caring to seek the bigger picture of the whole elephant, is inexcusable. But we all do it daily. God help us. And forgive us!

Why is our country so divided right now? The real truth, a wise man once said, frequently lies somewhere near the middle of two extremes. That is not to say there aren't stands that need to be taken, very real wrongs that need to be righted, and certain absolutes that are, well, absolute. But I maintain that most of our disagreements are exaggerated and misplaced. I have been humbled as a parent when I realized that the very thing I was so frustrated about with my own child, was my own personal failure as well.

The human condition has plenty of inherent common ground, if we are honest and humble to seek it.

So why are generous assumptions important - even essential? First, assumptions are by nature flawed because they are so quickly adopted and emotionally held. Irresistible thought candy. Secondly, even if "true", assumptions are typically only a very small part of the whole truth. We must redeem assumptions for the good, and then build on them. And we must gather more nuggets of information, while snacking on humble pie.

Yes, there for the grace of God, go we.

We are all quite complicated and always in process. Isn't giving another the benefit of the doubt something that Jesus would do? Tragically, Amazing Grace isn't a song we think much about singing to others.

Generous assumptions are a gift to us. They are one of God's most powerful tools in our employ, but they must be given away!

About the Author

He finds all of this fascinating and sees that it has encouraged the growth of something crucial in his Christian development: empathy and compassion toward his brothers and sisters on this planet.

Love Your Enemies | The Freedom of Forgiveness

Sara Gore February 12, 2021

What started out as an innocent misunderstanding with a neighbor has turned into a cold war of unforgiveness and limited contact. We live in the same townhouse complex, directly across the driveway from each other. Our last regular conversation ended last year, with her shouting at me “I will never talk to you again!” This is difficult to do, because she has developed a surrogate mother-daughter relationship with my immediate, next-door neighbor, whose front door is less than 6 feet from mine. I see this angry neighbor every day.

She turns her back to me if we pass each other on the sidewalk. And when she sees me pulling weeds in my front yard as she walks her dog past my home, she will say critical things about me to her dog, in a voice loud enough for me to hear.

I hate this! I’ve apologized, but my invitations to talk things over with her are ignored with no eye contact. I am no stranger to the silent treatment. One of my primary relatives would not talk to me for days even when I was a child, while we lived in the same house.

When I chose my personal relationship with Christ as my life’s priority, and took time to read my Bible, I learned it was my responsibility to initiate the healing by forgiving others first. I would make attempts to forgive regardless of the other person’s response, but I did not know how to manage my childhood pattern of responding with resentment and anxiety. Over the years, I found it easier to withdraw in self-protection.

Matthew 5:44-45 TPT
“However, I say to you, love your enemy, bless the one who curses you, do something wonderful for the one who hates you, and respond to the very ones who persecute you by praying for them. For that will reveal your identity as children of our heavenly Father.”

This tense situation has slowly escalated over the last year. And I’ve had the growing suspicion that Christ is giving me an opportunity to create new habits and better manage my emotions in a godly way. I started praying for my resistant neighbor, and a surprising thing happened.

On a particular morning I woke up feeling like a storm had passed. The usual buzz of tension and guilt I would wake up with was gone, and the air around my mind was quiet. I strongly felt this was no coincidence. Freedom comes with obedience. And I felt this glimpse of freedom was my reward. Praying for my neighbor is still not easy, but I am pressing into this obedience which is delivering me from my mind’s jail.

Importantly, this uncomfortable situation continues to reveal my incomplete areas. And I pray, ‘Lord help me to remember to bring my broken places to you so you can repair them with your healing love.’ My childhood pattern was to withdraw from the pain of being shut out. My broken relationship with my neighbor is teaching me to stop denying my dysfunction, face my responsibility, and choose instead to pray for her. This is the key part of my battle.

Matthew 5:45-46 TPT
“He is kind to all by bringing the sunrise to warm and rainfall to refresh, whether a person does what is good or evil. What reward do you deserve if you only love the loveable? Don’t even the tax collectors do that?”

I used to feel imprisoned and condemned by my relative’s anger and silent treatment, but Christ has spared me from spiritual death in a sustained rescue that has spanned decades. I see it clearly as I review my past life events. And I know that nothing can separate me from his love, and His love is all I need.

I feel Christ’s nudge guiding me to refuse darkness, as a type of victory, by turning my back on the disabling resentment that would try to attach itself to me. And to learn to laugh at the imperfect situations, because Christ has disarmed our spiritual adversary, who can no longer hurt us. This frees me to have empathy for my perceived enemies. Even to go the further step and pray for them!

About the Author

Community Prayer Guide | February 2021

Darla Beardsley February 1, 2021

Community Prayer Guide February 2021

“My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.”
Psalm 121:2

Church
Pray for every pastor to be encouraged, empowered and filled with God’s love.
Pray for unity in every local church: to be filled with the Spirit to focus on and follow Jesus daily.
Pray for God’s wisdom and presence to lead the One Hope strategic planning process; for local churches to function in unity and collaboration for the long-run.

Education
Pray for wisdom for district and school leaders as they are tasked with making school re-entry happen.
Pray for a peaceful, safe, and optimistic return for teachers and families.
Pray for families that they will have grace and wisdom to help their kids through another transition.
Pray for teachers to have hope, strength and positive attitudes vs. anxiety.
Pray for older students, that they would not be overlooked, and for meaningful connections to happen.

Government
Pray for God’s wisdom upon every local city governments’ mayors, councils and staff.
Pray for Community Safety: for wise & well-coordinated efforts among local police, Cahoots & other agencies.
Pray for county, city, business and non-profit leaders to work collaboratively for greater fruitfulness.
Pray for the effective implementation of the “homeless systems transformation,” and for wisdom to guide the community’s efforts for more youth emergency housing.
Pray for God’s wisdom and grace to be upon Sean VanGordon, the new interim Springfield mayor.

Business
Pray for God to help businesses most impacted by the shutdown (restaurants, gyms, hotels, etc.).
Pray for healthy and fast vaccine distribution so business can reopen.
Pray for the local “workplace:” health, encouragement, good morale and healthy productivity.

“May the Lord answer you when you are in distress; may the name of the God of Jacob protect you.”
Psalm 20:1

“May we shout for joy over your victory and lift up our banners in the name of our God.
May the Lord grant all your requests.”
Psalm 20:5

Arts
Pray for high school seniors to remain engaged in the arts, even as performances are canceled.
Pray for God's wisdom & provision over local theaters & galleries to engage new ways to perform this season.
Pray for God to touch the hearts of community members through the CAFA art show this Spring.

Family
Pray for parents to discern truth and have wisdom to lead their kids in life and in the education system.
Pray for God to strengthen marriages with joy, agape love, and good communication.
Pray for families to engage in healthy activities, relationships and resources that strengthen them.

Health Care
Pray for God’s healing hand & wisdom to be upon COVID-19 treatments and the administration of the vaccine.
Pray for local medical leadership to remain healthy & hopeful, while embracing peace, wisdom & truth.
Pray for health care providers to have solutions & endurance to bring healing to those suffering in addiction.
Pray for HCPs to gently and wisely speak truth on medical issues that are in conflict with God’s design.

Police & Fire Departments
Pray for God’s wisdom and plans to lead the Oregon State Legislature as they consider police reform.
Pray for the endurance, wisdom, peace and safety of those serving in our police and fire departments.
Pray for First Responders to be “ambassadors of peace,” bringing peace to every situation.
Pray for more first responders to be hired, and for those hired to be of noble character.

Sports
Pray for wisdom & blessing on all local youth sports organizations: schools, Kidsports, YMCA, Little League, etc.
Pray for God to guide those who oversee athletics as the UO, LCC, Bushnell University and New Hope college.
Pray for God’s guidance for high school/college athletic programs, as they decide how and when to compete.

“Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.
… Answer us when we call!”
Psalm 20:7, 9b

Find answers to prayer on our website: onehopenetwork.org/testimonies.

Love Your Enemies | Don’t Be Your Own Worst Enemy

Mark Beardsley January 29, 2021

Loving your enemy is hard. It’s really, REALLY hard. It takes patience, restraint and understanding. The work of considering who my enemies are, what they believe, and how to understand where they are coming from can take a lot of energy. This requires more than just normal, daily living, and God would have us forgive our enemies daily.

One of the ways I have found to help with this is to consider God’s greatest commandment, according to Jesus:

Matt 22: 37-40
“ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”

After loving God, I find I am supposed to love my neighbor as myself. This implies I love myself, which I suppose I do, but I don’t think about it much. More often, I am harder on myself than I have ever been on another human being. This has been especially trying during this past year--feeling trapped at home and surrounded by the scourge of disease. I have been blessed with much support, thankfully, and my wife and I pray often for those who have not. My wife has told me to stop being so hard on her husband because she loves him and he is the beloved child of God. That makes me stop and consider: Am I not following God’s commandments by not loving myself as I would love my neighbor?

In addition to praying and seeking God, we must actually be the stewards of our bodies and minds in order to be able to love our enemies more fully – and to not become an enemy to self.

In taking care of my body, I try to see my physical self, in spite of its many flaws, as a gift from God. I try to exercise and eat well, but have failed at times. But I keep trying to stop the negative self talk, give it to God and move forward.

In taking care of my mind, I indulge in reading and watching shows with my wife. We both like playing games and have been enjoying some new ones as the pandemic months have dragged on. We take walks throughout the neighborhood, enjoying each other’s company and getting some physical exercise to boot!

In taking care of my spirit, my wife and I pray together. We continue to enjoy our Sunday church services with CitySalt on Sunday, albeit through YouTube, and also have enjoyed participating in other socially- distanced time with our church, friends and family.

In order to be ready to serve God in all that He asks: loving myself, loving my loved ones and loving my enemies, I am practicing loving myself first to fill up that well, that all might drink from it.

Matt 6:35-36
But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.

About the Author

Love Your Enemies | Praying for our Enemies

Jessie Carter January 15, 2021

Luke 23:34
Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” And they divided up His clothes by casting lots.

Matthew 5:44
“But I [Jesus] tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”

The idea of loving your enemies is, in my opinion, one of the things that sets Christianity apart from many other religions. Unfortunately, it’s also one that we fail at miserably. I am heartbroken when I see Christians setting such a terrible example for the world. Dehumanizing politicians, using insulting names for people who want a better world in a different way than they do, even desiring the extermination of entire people groups-- I’ve seen it all, from family, friends, and former students of mine who claim to be Christ-followers.

But am I any better? Who are my enemies? How have I treated them?

I have lashed out in anger against people who I deemed to be working against me. I have held grudges long after I should have forgiven someone. I have cultivated resentment. I have thrown people under the proverbial bus because I was frustrated with them. And probably much more.

All of this could have been avoided, I’m sure, if I’d taken the time to pray for my enemies before I spoke or acted. Praying for them serves several purposes. It gives us compassion. It reminds us that we have all been sinners. We are all just as guilty as the people who were actively participating in the death of Jesus. Thank God for His grace, mercy, and sacrifice in the form of His Son. We can remember that if the person we’re at odds with isn’t a Christian, then they may not know what they are doing, and we can ask for them to know God’s forgiveness like we have. And if the person is a Christian, we can ask God to guide us both.

Praying for them also gives us the strength and ability to love them in a way that we are incapable of in our own power. I experienced this firsthand while living in Central Asia. Though the details of this experience might be better shared over coffee, I can tell you that God gave me a supernatural love for a group that I had every reason to hate. I’ve also had this experience in teaching, when a student is acting disruptively or disrespectfully. Of course I love my students and don’t see them as enemies, but I don’t always feel that love toward them at the moment. Even teachers are human! But when I pray for them, my attitude changes and sometimes even their attitude/behavior does, too.

Now I’m not saying that we need to coddle everyone or condone everyone’s actions. I think it’s okay to vehemently disagree with someone’s actions or policies or attitudes, and to call them on it. But we can do this without dehumanizing them. They are made in God’s image, just like the rest of us; and we need to honor that, even when they don’t deserve it. Because all of us have “not deserved it” at some point. Thank God that He, in His love, made a way for us all to be forgiven. And Jesus, who knew that He would be killed violently, gave us the ultimate example of loving our enemies.

Dear Lord, please guide us as we deal with our natural human emotions, including hate. Help us to remember that humans are never the ultimate enemy. And since we have all deserved the worst, help us to have compassion for those we don’t like as we remember our own guilt and how we’ve received grace. And fill us with love for them, so we can pray for them to know You more. Or nudge us to pray for them, so we can be filled with love for them. Whichever needs to come first in each case. You know our needs, and You know their needs. Thank you for loving us all. Amen.

About the Author

Love Your Enemies | The Enemy of The People

Terry Sheldon January 1, 2021

Wow, what a time we live in right now, and what a timely topic: enemies. The bible tells us to love them. I certainly don't want to downplay that essential command, but I do want to give the idea of enemies a closer look.

In the extreme sense of the word, enemies wage war - a physical battle with life and death consequences. In peacetime and comfortable culture, and certainly in these times of heightened anxiety, our enemies can be more contrived and personal. Out of our fear and insecurity, we tend to blame and shame others, often exaggerating cause and effects. We need a villain. Our enemies don't accidentally appear. We make them!

Inflamed emotions mix with lazy thinking (generalizations), and lead to negative assumptions that infect our interpersonal relationships and taint our notions about distant people - ironically, whom we don't even know. The sad result can be a self-centered personal and cultural strife (tribalism), with all the negativity that comes with it.

Our present reality in this exhausting, toxic political climate is being called a culture war. It's worsened by this isolating pandemic, social unrest and people who fan the flames of division to achieve selfish goals. I believe our biggest imperative right now is not to agree on everything, but instead to somehow turn down the thermostat and learn how to be civil again. And to do that, we need to identify our real enemy.

First let's take a step back.

The scriptures say we are ALL made in His image. That means all of God's created beings are relational - and connected, even though some aren't yet at a place of saving grace. Sin damaged our relating, but it did not disconnect us from each other. Relationship is in our creation DNA, and it is certainly our best earthly common ground.

I think it's all too easy for us believers to look at our sin in our rearview mirror and our earthly brothers and sisters in that view as well. We create an "us versus them" separation, where pride invades our hearts. But "for the grace of God go I." How we think of and how we relate to our "enemies" cannot only cause struggle, strife and even hatred, but it can render our witness ineffective. We not only get in our own way, tragically, we get in God's as well!

Our human bonds are frayed - but still are connected!

And linked by this: "For we all like sheep have gone astray". Would any good father disown his prodigal child, as the siblings wanted? No! In the biblical story, the father still welcomes his son with open arms, even after the other son complains about him squandering the inheritance. It appears that his father's long-suffering faith and support is what enabled his son to make his way home, and reconnect with his family. Vilifying his son would have prevented the completion of his change of heart (his repentance). I believe this humble and loving, God-centered view of our human brothers and sisters is an essential first step in helping to ease our divisions.

I know, I know, we all love our doctrine. But to what end? Or what is its service? How can we assume the best about and for people when they are not acting in a way we agree with? Maybe we start by putting people before our list of grievances. That does not dilute our own convictions, but it certainly can help clear our head of ignorant assumptions and clear a path back home, just like the prodigal son. It's so humbling to think someone's path back could go through me and you!

We really are in this together.

One thing I am convinced about - we must seek real conversations with our "enemies" (not online drive-by rants), and really listen to their personal stories! Our stories are our real cultural currency. We are all the sum of our storied parts--still in progress and influenced by the Holy Spirit in real time. Our Lord is inviting us to be more involved in others’ lives! He is entreating us to love - this biggest and best commandment.

And this: we really cannot affect change in someone without their permission. It's basic trust.

Here is my personal list of "rules of engagement" (no I am not very good at this yet):

Take the initiative (it takes courage), but be gentle
Look for common ground (it's there, look for it early on)
Be polite and show humility
Listen more than talk (I should get my turn to speak as I gain their trust)
Share, don't snare (I'm not the judge, just a witness)
Stay opened minded to creative Holy Spirit-inspired solutions

The real enemy? Yes it's the Liar, the enemy of our souls. But his methods can be as deceiving as his lies. His grand and calculated plan is to divide and conquer with emotional isolation. To get us to avoid authentic conversations and settling for lazy and incomplete information.

Romans 13:9-10 ESV
For the commandments, “You shall not commit adultery, You shall not murder, You shall not steal, You shall not covet,” and any other commandment are summed up in this word: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.

About the Author

He finds all of this fascinating and sees that it has encouraged the growth of something crucial in his Christian development: empathy and compassion toward his brothers and sisters on this planet.

Community Prayer Guide | January 2021

Darla Beardsley January 1, 2021

Community Prayer Guide January 2021

“He said to them, ‘When you pray, say: Father, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come.’”
Luke 11:3

Church
Pray for the power of the Holy Spirit to transform every Christ-follower into the image of Jesus more.
Pray for church and ministry leadership teams: God’s vision, wisdom and power for 2021.
Pray for the Eugene Mission after the COVID-19 outbreak: healing, wisdom, health and protection.

Education
Pray for Students: that they would have hope, focus and the ability to learn at home.
Pray for Families: for grace and understanding as they interact together and with their schools.
Pray for Teachers: for peace and grace to balance their workload, student needs and their home life.

Government
Pray for God’s wisdom upon every local city governments’ mayors, councils and staff.
Pray for county, city, business and non-profit leaders to work collaboratively for greater fruitfulness.
Pray for the effective implementation of the “homeless systems transformation,” and for wisdom to guide the community’s efforts for more youth emergency housing.

Business
Pray for local businesses to rebuild, rehire employees, and become profitable again.
Pray for local business leaders to have perseverance, wisdom and hope to navigate this season.
Pray for the local “workplace:” encouragement, good morale and healthy productivity.
Pray for local business leaders to have a healthy work/life balance: personal health, family relationships, etc.

“So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
Luke 11:9

“For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.”
Luke 11:10

Arts
Pray for Christ-honoring writers, musicians & visual artists to receive a fresh anointing to create with God.
Pray for God's wisdom and provision over local theaters & galleries; for peace & safety when venues reopen.
Pray for Jesus-following artists to lead the way with a hopeful tone through their art in 2021.

Family
Pray for families as they engage this unique school season: God’s guidance, strength, and peace.
Pray for God to strengthen marriages with joy, agape love, and good communication.
Pray for families to engage in healthy activities, relationships and resources that strengthen them.

Health Care
Pray for God’s healing hand to be upon COVID-19 treatments and the administration of the vaccine.
Pray for protection and resilience for health care providers (HCPs) and their families.
Pray for HCPs to have God’s wisdom, strength, perseverance and good health.

Police and Fire Departments
Pray for the encouragement, wisdom, peace and safety of those serving in our police and fire departments.
Pray for First Responders to be “ambassadors of peace,” bringing peace to every situation.
Pray for more first responders to be hired, and for those hired to be of noble character.

Sports
Pray for all local athletes to find ways to be strengthened and developed as athletes.
Pray for God to guide those who oversee the UO athletic department: God’s wisdom and eternal perspective.
Pray for God’s guidance for high school/college athletic programs, as they decide how and when to compete.

“If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”
Luke 11:13

Find answers to prayer on our website: onehopenetwork.org/testimonies.

Advent: He is Love | The Love Language of Inclusion

Sara Gore December 18, 2020

Everyone has a different way they receive love from others. For some, love is perceived as sharing a delicious home-cooked meal at a friend’s house, for others it’s an agreed upon splurge purchase with the family credit card. For me, I feel loved when my friends invite me to share part of their day. It can be as simple as helping my friend weed their garden, allowing us to have a conversation while we pull weeds. Just welcome and include me.

When I think of Advent, I remember that one of my favorite parts of the Christmas story is the Angel’s annunciation of Christ’s birth to the shepherds in the fields. God included them in the events of that incredible night.

Luke 2:8-15 TPT
“That night, in a field near Bethlehem, there were shepherds watching over their flocks. Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared in radiant splendor before them, lighting up the field with the blazing glory of God. And the shepherds were terrified!”

Shepherds belonged to the lowest working class, which was due, at least in part, to the poverty associated with their humble vocation. They learned to live and work on the outskirts of town and community. It must have been a lonely life. God knew His announcement would be a shock, considering the limited nature of the shepherds’ understanding, and He sent His angel to mercifully prepare them. Out of God’s infinitely abundant love, they received a calming message with the wonderful news of the arrival of Jesus, our Savior.

“…the angel reassured them, saying, ‘Don’t be afraid. For I have come to bring you good news, the most joyous news the world has ever heard! And it is for everyone everywhere! For today in Bethlehem a rescuer was born for you. He is the Lord Yahweh, the Messiah. You will recognize him by this miracle sign: You will find a baby wrapped in strips of cloth and lying in a feeding trough!’”

Because the joyous news was for all people, God included the shepherds, and brought the announcement to them by special delivery! They were not left out. Their presence at the stable was evidence that Jesus’ birth was for every human being, no matter their station in life. Even the lowly shepherds were on God’s invitation list.

“Then all at once, a vast number of glorious angels appeared, the very armies of heaven! And they all praised God, singing: ‘Glory to God in the highest realms of heaven!
For there is peace and a good hope given to the sons of men.’”

Since the candlelight Christmas services of my childhood, I’ve enjoyed imagining what this part of the story looked like. The Message version phrases it as “a huge angelic choir singing God’s praises.” In my mind I can “see” the golden light of God’s Glory surrounding the angels as they floated, flew, or maybe even danced to the sound of their praise songs to God! The image of the golden light against the deep blue of the night sky must have been a breath-taking sight! And God gave this spectacular experience to the shepherds!

“When the choir of angels disappeared back to heaven, the shepherds said to one another,
‘Let’s go! Let’s hurry and find this Word that is born in Bethlehem and see for ourselves what the Lord has revealed to us.’”

After a lifetime of feeling shunned and excluded, the shepherds lost their inhibitions long enough to want to see the great event with their own eyes. God’s redemptive love and mercy gave the shepherds a place in history. We do not know their names, but their mention in the biblical account of Christ’s birth has been read by a countless number of people for over two thousand years. God saw to it they were not forgotten. I am so very thankful for this further evidence of God’s eternal and inclusive love.

I think this story remains one of my favorites because it reminds me how our God sees us and includes us all in His gift of redemption. And our loving Lord also gives us an endless amount of opportunities for renewal by the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.

About the Author

Advent: He is Our Joy | Complete Joy

Jessie Carter December 11, 2020

John 15:11 (NIV)
“I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.”

These words of Jesus are offered in the middle of a speech to His disciples where he comforts them, talks about abiding in Him and remaining in His love, and exhorts them to love one another. In the midst of these thoughts, He explains why He’s telling them all this: so that His joy can be in them and so that it will be complete.

What does this mean? Joy is a confusing word. Merriam-Webster has three definitions for the noun joy. One is “The emotion evoked by well-being, success, or good fortune, or by the prospect of possessing what one desires.” The second is “A state of happiness or felicity.” The last one is “A source or cause of delight.”

I tend to think of joy as the second definition most often when I think about the concept in general. But I feel that the third definition is the most helpful when thinking about it spiritually. Happiness can come and go depending on my circumstances. But if my joy is in the Lord, then He is the source or cause of my delight, and that joy is available no matter my circumstances (very helpful this crazy year!). I love how this saint put it: “Jesus is honey in the mouth, music in the ear, and a shout of joy in the heart.” ~St. Bernard of Clairvaux

So in considering all of this, I think this is how we can have joy: Jesus is the source of our joy. If we follow His directions in John 15 by abiding in Him, remaining in His love, loving each other, and having faith and hope in Him; His joy will be in us, and it will be complete. This doesn’t mean that we’ll always feel happy. Sorrow and other sad emotions are part of life. But we can have an inner joy, knowing the Source of our delight, that sustains us when life is tough.

If Jesus is the source of our joy, then that explains why we can sing, “Joy to the world, the Lord is come.” We can have joy because He came. And we don’t sing it in the past tense. He is come! He is with us here and now. That is definitely a reason to celebrate. Merry Christmas!

About the Author

Advent: He is Our Peace | Memories

Mark Beardsley December 4, 2020

When I think about Peace, I think of the times when I was a kid on Christmas vacation. I could sleep in and enjoy the morning, play with the dogs outside in the snow, then do some chores like chopping wood and bringing it inside for the fire. After that, I could warm up, change into some comfy clothes and sip a cup of hot chocolate—freshly made from scratch by my mom. I’d curl up on the couch by the fire and read a good sci-fi novel like something by Isaac Asimov.

It feels significant that these times happened during Christmas vacations. My family would stay home and enjoy each other’s company. I could enjoy being with my family, my loving parents and brother, in our dwelling place, with few burdens and the joy of not worrying about things.

Now that I am older, I realize that I was privileged to have a home where such times of peace could occur. It was a gift that models living in the new Kingdom, with a loving Father who cares for us and the ability to feel His Presence in our hearts through the Holy Spirit. Knowing him as a Peace that can dwell inside of us in times of trouble. These special times were a reflection of the promise of the Peace that Jesus brings to us.

John 16:33
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

If 2020 has given us anything, it has given us trouble. But I take heart that, even though I might be isolated, I can shelter with my wife in our home and with the comfort of the Peace that Jesus has given us. I pray that in these times of trouble and dissent, you may also find the Peace that surpasses understanding, which is a gift from our Father in Heaven, His Son, Jesus and in His Holy Spirit.

About the Author

Community Prayer Guide June 2021

Community Prayer Guide May 2021

Community Prayer Guide April 2021

We would like to take this opportunity to update you on our current “when” and “how” plans for what we are calling a “hybrid” approach to CitySalt Sunday Services in the weeks ahead.

So what does that mean for CitySalt?

To the question of WHEN:

To the question of HOW:

Final Remarks:

Further Helpful Information from the Oregon Health Authority:

Community Prayer Guide March 2021

Community Prayer Guide February 2021

Community Prayer Guide January 2021

CitySalt Church

Celebrate Goodness