Sometimes I just have to smile at the way Divine Order unfolds in our lives. This morning, as I sat down to write this week's Bobby Pen, I opened my Daily Word for Wednesday, November 11, and there it was. The word for today was Service, accompanied by the affirmation, "I bless and give thanks for those who serve." How perfectly timed, especially as we prepare for two very meaningful gatherings at Unity of Louisville this weekend.
This Friday evening, November 13, we will gather for A Grateful Heart: An Evening of Thanks, a celebration of the hearts and hands of Unity of Louisville. It's an opportunity to pause, recognize, and express our heartfelt appreciation for the extraordinary people who give so generously of their time, talents, energy, and love to make our spiritual community what it is.
When I think about our volunteers, I'm reminded that a spiritual community is so much more than a building, a Sunday service, or a collection of programs. It's a living expression of love in action. It's the welcoming smile at the door, the hands preparing refreshments, the voices filling our sanctuary with music, the quiet prayers offered for someone in need, and the countless acts of kindness that often happen when no one is watching.
And isn't that what service is really about? Not recognition or applause, but the simple joy of knowing that something we have offered has made another person's journey a little brighter.
One of the things I love most about Unity is our understanding that the Divine expresses through each of us. We don't have to wait for some extraordinary calling to make a difference. Every time we extend compassion, offer encouragement, lend a helping hand, or simply show up for someone, we become an expression of that Divine Presence.
Service is love made visible.
And the beauty of service is that it transforms not only the person receiving it but also the person giving it. When we serve from a place of love rather than obligation, something within us expands. We discover a deeper sense of connection, belonging, and purpose.
Then, on Saturday, November 14, our Board of Trustees will gather for an extended strategic planning session. We'll spend four to five hours reviewing our proposed 2027 budget, envisioning the future of our ministry, establishing priorities, and identifying the quarterly Rocks that will help turn our vision into meaningful action.
I want to acknowledge the extraordinary dedication of these individuals. Board service requires time, thoughtful decision-making, courage, and a willingness to hold the greater good of our community at heart. Much of their work happens behind the scenes, yet its impact touches every part of our ministry. I am deeply grateful for their commitment and for the opportunity to envision our future together.
As we prepare for 2027 and our beautiful annual theme, Rooted in Love, Rising in Light, I can't help but see how perfectly service embodies that intention. We become rooted in love through the ways we care for one another, and we rise in light through the gifts we share with the world.
Perhaps this is an invitation for all of us to consider how we might live our gratitude a little more fully. Not simply by saying thank you, although those words are certainly important, but by allowing our appreciation to become action.
To every volunteer, board member, and individual who contributes to the life of Unity of Louisville, please know how deeply you are valued and appreciated.
Together, we are creating something beautiful. And every loving act of service helps make it possible.
And I hope you'll join us this Sunday, November 15, as we welcome Rev. Dr. Gerry Boylan, who will share his inspiring message, "A Few More Guidelines." We look forward to gathering together for another meaningful Sunday of inspiration, connection, and spiritual growth!
With love and gratitude, Rev. Dr. Bobby Kyser
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