“The church of Christ in every age, beset by change, but Spirit led, must claim and test its heritage and keep on rising from the dead.” – ELW 729 vs. 1
Dear People of Bethlehem,
In this time that includes Holy Trinity Sunday, I find myself reflecting on the scope of the church, its stretch and its reach.
We are the church of the creating God. The one who pulled up the mountains and set the barriers of the ocean. God really does have the whole world in his hands. And our God is still creating. Every newborn baby, every new relationship, every time you are made new by the sorrows and joys of this life. I give thanks today for Sue Christensen’s grandsons, Robbie and Isaac. Both were born premature, both with significant medical issues. Sue has been sending me pictures of their small faces and updates on their medical journey. Each week they are doing better and better. Each week they are growing stronger and stronger. Each week God is holding them in the palm of God’s hand.
We are the church of the risen Christ. The Jesus who healed the sick, fed hungry people, touched the lepers, raised the dead, and gathered the children in his arms. The one who bent as a servant and washed the disciples’ feet. The one who gave his life, breathed his last, and returned and said to his disciples, “Peace be with you.” We are now Jesus hands and feet in our day. This week and next, we will be gathering non-perishable food to feed children who will be missing school breakfasts and lunches over the summer. A week ago, I held Ralph Randau’s hand as he looked at me with his warm and sparking blue eyes. He smiled at me as he neared the end of his journey. I was privileged to be with Elke and his dear family as we said our goodbyes, cherished the love in the moment, and honored this dear man’s beautiful life. Ralph died 2 days later and now rests in the love and grace of God.
We are the church of the Holy Spirit, and the rush of her mighty wind. As I stood at the vigil at the mosque with a thousand souls of every faith and creed, I heard voice after voice speak of the power of love that is stronger than hate. I felt the Spirit touch every heart.
Dear people of Bethlehem, we are the breadth and the scope of the church in our day. How will we carry the heritage of God’s church. Who will we touch. What path will the Spirit encourage us to take? This I know, it is a wide and broad calling to be the church. We are caught up in the strong tide of God’s grace and love. This I know, we will do more than we can possibly imagine. It is our deepest blessing to be the church together.
In gratitude for the journey, Pastor Laura
“Then let the servant church arise, a caring church that longs to be, a partner in Christ’s sacrifice, and clothed in Christ’s humanity.” ELW 729 vs. 3