Dear people of God at Bethlehem,
I have recently returned from the Pacifica Synod Assembly, and so I am mindful of the scope of the church’s compassion and care, and the breadth of her voice. More than 300 of us gathered at Gloria Dei Lutheran in Dana Point to share our stories, to discern the work of the Holy Spirit in our day, and to follow in the way of the cross. It’s easy to forget that we are not alone in this work. Much of our days are spent with what is on my to-do list, what must I accomplish today. Forgetting that we are part of something wider, deeper and stronger. Part of something that is inclusive of all the gifts we possess.
It is not up to you to hold up the world — though in these heavy days, it often feels that way. Yet here is the freedom in which we live. It is up to God to hold us and keep us, to comfort and save us, and to carry this world in the arms of grace. It is up to all of us to do nothing more, than to bring our simple gifts — to come together, to work together, to lift up hope and healing together, for the sake of our neighbors and for the sake of the world.
Ellen called me recently. I had only met her once before. She asked to meet with me about caring for immigrant families. I was intrigued. She arrived, and said she had heard Bethlehem was a congregation with connections to the immigrant community. I was honored, and a little startled, to learn that we are becoming the congregation in the area known for this compassionate work. Her friend Jeremy came as well. He works in international social service. We spoke about how we might partner together in helping families in need. While the three of us were getting to know each other, an older gentleman walked into the church looking for help. Byron and his wife were headed back to Arizona after a family funeral and needed gas money. I gave him what I had in cash. It wasn’t much. Ellen reached into her purse and did the same. Jeremy offered to Venmo him some money. Byron said, “I’m an old man sir, and I don’t understand technology much, but my wife has Venmo, let me speak to her.” He returned in a moment with her phone in hand. I know people scam churches often, but I have gained instincts over the years, and his need felt very real.
Byron left us with his profound thanks. As the three of us waved him off, I was struck by God’s providence. They had come to discuss future ministry, and God had engaged us in immediate ministry. How like God, to gather us for a purpose beyond our knowing. So it is, in this common work we share. Strangers or friends, not one of us has enough on our own, for the work before us, but together we have all we need. Together, we can help people find their way home.
Now is the time to join in the wide circle of us who walk as yet by faith. We do not hold the world up by ourselves, nor should we, but we are part of God’s movement for the healing of the world. Pentecost is in just a few days. Would that everyone could hear of the love of God, each in their own language, each in their own way. The following prayer to be shared on Pentecost Day:
“Living God, we pray for the church. Inspire us with the touch of your Spirit, that we might find the courage to proclaim the good news in every language, to every person, and in every circumstance. Make us instruments of your peace in the midst of conflict, and messengers of your mercy to all who are downtrodden and discouraged. Lord in your mercy, . . .
In God’s infinite mercy, may you hear of the love of God for you in the language of your heart. May that love find you, heal you, take its place in you and carry you in these days. What a blessing it is to carry this Word together.
Together on the journey, Pastor Laura