Although we shape our own stories, the stories of our lives also shape us. They help us understand our families, our identities and what is important to us. Stories tell us important truths about faith, life, what we deem valuable and how we have come to view the world. They connect us with the past and give us hope for the future. Stories shape us as communities, nations and people of faith.
In the book of Deuteronomy, Moses shares the word of God that will make up the story that defines the people of Israel, both then and now: “Hear, O Israel: The Lord is our God, the Lord alone. You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and with all your might” (6:4-5).
This story has been told in the same words for thousands of years, becoming deeply ingrained in the very being of those who know and cherish it. What are the stories that shape your life?
This message is excerpted from “We are story people” by Jordan Miller-Stubbendick in the July/August 2019 Gather magazine.
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