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"A Note from Pastor Rich..." (current and archived)Monthly "Note From Pastor Rich" (from the Parish Paper - December, 2005)How time flies much faster when one grows older—or is that just a myth? I have been experiencing that even before I grew older!! In scripture, we are told, “…that with the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like one day. The Lord is not slow about his promise, as some think of slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting any to perish, but all to come to repentance. (II Peter 3: 8-9) Time, as many philosophers and scientists have indicated in their writings, has been considered a human created concept. Yet, in society today as it has in eons before and will continue into time immemorial (small pun), time seems to govern humankind and not vice versa. When we contemplate our liturgical year and all the dynamics that surround it, we are constantly bombarded with rapidly approaching deadlines, anticipated “holy” days, crunches of fiscal responsibilities, and gatherings that always seem to come together just at the last moment. As hard as we try, the hourly limits that we put on ourselves or are put upon us are an ever-present challenge. As we move through the Advent season toward the birth of the Christ, our concept and feeling of time certainly becomes compressed. In the hustle and bustle of preparation, patience and sensitivity towards others can become stretched. Focusing on our own needs takes priority (even when it is toward our family and friends that we direct our energies). Channeling our energy for ‘getting ready’ takes a decidedly narrow path often at the expense of social decorum and good judgment. For example, recently I read a newspaper article showing the ‘stampede’ of shopper on Black Friday trampling fellow consumers on the way into a department store and ignoring them as they lay injured beneath rushing feet. Patience in that context certainly didn’t exist for hundreds, perhaps thousands across the nation. While we may not put ourselves in that particular category, I think much can be learned if we juxtapose the fevered pitch of the ‘harriedness’ of the Christmas season and all the material trappings upon the above verses from II Peter. Advent and Christmas are such important events in the year of the church. However, in the great scheme of things, we rarely spend a great deal of time contemplating the significance of the two. For children and children at heart, the waiting for Christmas Eve is the most difficult, only because of the expectation of receiving gifts and/or participating in a great holiday meal. Nevertheless, in the mind of God, these four weeks are but a mere hundred-thousandth of a heartbeat. Would we have the capacity to slow time down, wouldn’t it be enlightening to take the opportunity to ponder at length the incredible gift to come and the meaning of this gift for ourselves and each other (as well as the implication for the world? But, alas, how time seems to fly more quickly as we grow older. We fill in the time that would be useful for our spiritual growth with ‘busyness,’ ‘hurriedness,’ ‘scattered ness,’ ‘self-directedness,’ and all other sorts of ‘nesses.’ The hope of the season of Advent and Christmas lies in the realization that, despite our proclivity to get caught up in societal trappings of ‘things,’ God still exercises great patience with us. The gift, promised the Hebrew people millennia ago, is given to us yet again. The treasure of salvation comes to a people waiting for what must have seemed interminable. God knows we need to be reminded of this gift, of God’s patience and faithfulness, on a regular and timely basis. May we re-evaluate our sensitivity and patience towards others during challenging times. May the gift, given again, be a beacon that alerts us to the needs of others, not only during this season, but also throughout the year to come. I wish all of you and yours a blessed Advent and Christmas Season! Love, peace and grace, Monthly "Note From Pastor Rich" (from the Parish Paper - November, 2005)Moving, changing addresses, reworking schedules, bumping into boxes, searching for lost name badges and energy-saving lights---ARRRRGH! However, we are now in our new home, surrounded by cedars, birches, maples and other trees, blessed by the presence of hundreds of birds (including evening grosbeaks!), teased by a brook (I think I heard it babble the other night), and learning which way is east (the sun finally shined!) Transitions always provoke much emotion, occasional anxiety, and for the two of us, a lot of excitement. New beginnings, however they present themselves, are a big part of life and can be provocative, growth enhancing and horizon broadening. On the other hand, where doubt, fear and anxiety about newness arise, transformation can be threatening and any creative energy that might otherwise be utilized will be dampened. The life of the church, as in the lives of individuals, is never static. During the past few decades, the church (especially the mainline denominations) appears to have lost influence over societal direction, with mass media, a consumer mentality and individualism taking the forefront. Churches that attempt to buck societal trends without being in tune with the needs of the coming generations, will inevitably hit the proverbial brick wall. For the most part, mainline churches that attempt to explore and implement new ways to promote the gospel of Jesus Christ through innovative and creative means, find their worship enhanced and their worshipers rewarded. As I write this message, I ponder the incredible possibilities at Potsdam First. With the talent that already exists and the potential for the future, we lie at the crossroads of forward thinking and the need for the gospel message to be revitalized. To accomplish this, we must lessen our hold on the comfort of ‘what has been done in the past’ and grab a hold of the daring of ‘what might be in the future’. We must be in tune with the generations who think, respond, react, and absorb differently from us. We must earnestly try to be ‘in sync’ with what their needs and concerns of the future are. We must listen to the drummer that leads them, guides them and directs them. Only by doing this will we reach out and make a difference in their lives and ours. While the message of Jesus Christ and his sacrifice remains the same, the methods and means of sharing that message must change with the times, without diminishing the meaning or impact of it. Thanksgiving season is upon us (though I believe every season is a season for thanksgiving) and we are reminded of God’s love, mercy and goodness. We are called to respond to God in sacrificial ways. This includes not only talent, time, treasure, but also at times sacrificing our ossifying ways of thinking, dreaming, and acting so that the gospel of Jesus Christ may be made alive in new ways, new venues, new avenues of creativity. I encourage us to make this upcoming advent season a season for reflection on ways to embolden our members, friends and families to take risks, to step out on faith, to take advantage of opportunities to grow, and to make transformation and change an exciting and positive experience for all.
Love, peace and grace,
Monthly "Note From Pastor Rich" (from the Parish Paper - October, 2005The sound of geese, anxiously gathering for their southern migration, the clear crispness of the nights, the hint of changing hue of the maple leaves, and the sighs of the autumn wind through the pine trees all signal the return of my favorite season. It was always hard work for families such as ours, the first couple of weeks in October dedicated to harvesting sugar beets. Often the fields would be so wet that we couldn’t get out in them unless the ground had frozen over night. Circumstances beyond our control would dictate when and where we would begin the trek from field to the American Crystal Sugar processing factory. Yes, indeed, the ground would freeze hard enough, even in early October. Yes, the rains could be significant, even to flooding stage in late September. But we, as did all the farmers in the area, persevered, and for the most part were able to reap the bounty of God’s good earth, enough to feed ourselves and countless others. Despite the hard work (frequently arising at midnight or two in the morning) of the harvest, and the strain of keeping awake in school during the day, I still remember fondly those days working alongside my Granddad on the beet harvester or trudging up the half-mile long fields collecting beets that had dropped from the truck or machinery. It was hard work that made the harvest worth while, hard work that tempered our appreciation of nature and God’s creation, and hard work that created within us a sense of accomplishment and well-being. Side by side by this gentle, diminutive but incredibly strong Scot, I learned the value of tenacity, perseverance and strength. I share this tiny peek into my background for a special reason and a special plea. First of all, I am continually impressed by the hard work that transpires in this special community of faith. From the leaders of the church (Elders and Deacons), the staff, to the members and friends of the congregation, all have shown the character of Paul’s admonition to the fellowship in Philippi found in the third chapter, verses 13-14: “Beloved, I do not consider that I have made it my own; but this one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the heavenly call of God in Christ Jesus.” The success of the ministry here at First Presbyterian Church depends on the work of all individuals and groups. It depends on a clear vision of what God has called us to do. It means dedication, striving for excellence, and perseverance during times of challenge, struggle, and stretching. It also presumes that we depend upon a God who cares enough to confront us when we become complacent, strengthens us when we fall weak, nurtures us when we hunger, and loves us when we feel unloved. Friends in Christ, we need your help. As members of the body, we are called to respond to the needs of our congregation, the needs of the community and when able, the needs beyond our area. As all of you are aware, there have been catastrophic natural disasters here in the US and abroad. Many from our church have been exemplars of charity, giving beyond their means to assist, and will continue to do so. Rising costs in energy, building and business supplies, and living expenses affect all of us, the church being no exception. Leaders of First Church have been diligent and frugal in paring down their budgets as much as possible. Yet, we continue to experience a shortfall in pledging and receipts needed to continue our valuable and vibrant ministry here. To the end of reducing this shortfall, I am asking those who might be interested in participating in a task force that will explore avenues for fund raising to let me know of that interest via email. Also, if you have ideas that seem practical and cost effective in generating additional funds, please email those to me. In addition, if the Spirit of God moves you to increase your giving, please respond to that call. I realize this means work, hard work. I realize this might be a sacrifice to some, a challenge to others. Frugality, perseverance, and hard work were a part of the legacy my Granddad left me. I trust and pray that we can work together to ensure that this wonderful ministry continues to thrive and be a constant reminder to the community and beyond that Christ is alive and well through the Presbyterian presence here in the North Country.
Love, peace and grace,
Monthly "Note From Pastor Rich" (from the Parish Paper - September, 2005)“Where is God in all this?” A common plea when people experience disaster, life-threatening illnesses, problems, accidents, etc. With the recent devastation of the hurricane Katrina, we are again reminded of the power of nature, the helplessness and loss of control felt by thousands of individuals and families, city and state governments. It’s certainly not easy to say, “Let Go, and Let God” when you fear the loss of home or the lives of loved ones. Dr. Lloyd J. Ogilvie, retired Presbyterian minister wrote a book back in the ‘80’s called, If God Cares, Why Do I Still Have Problems? This book essentially deals with individual’s personal problems that seem to continue to pile up and then the individual seems overwhelmed by them and doesn’t know where to turn or how to handle them. In an early part of the book, Ogilvie offers ten suggestions for people when they seem at the end of their rope, so to speak. For your edification and use, I share these this month. Focus on the Lord, not circumstances. Ogilvie feels that seeking out God and not an immediate solution, allows God to work in our lives, thus enabling us to be in deeper relationship with God, releasing us from the tension of trying to solve problems alone. Face the problem. Looking for positives in a negative situation is difficult but not an effort in futility. Prayer, in intentional and sincere effort allows us to see what God wants us to learn amidst this difficult circumstance. Thank the Lord. While I don’t believe in a God who gives us problems, I agree with Ogilvie that being in a thankful frame of mind allows us to open our hearts and minds to God’s suggestions, again in an attitude of gratitude and prayer. Put blame behind you. We spend much time in assessing blame to someone or something when we are in dire straights. Ogilvie says that this ‘exhausts the energy we need to use in solving the problem.’ Part of ridding yourself or others of blame is confessing our inadequacies and forgiving self and others. Pray for guidance. Prayer works! Often, we are so caught up in the problem, that we cannot see any way out of it. Being quiet, listening for God’s spirit to direct and advise is essential. This takes discipline and a plan of action. I remember keen advice that was given me once: “Plan your action, act on your plan. Plan to pray, then do it. Share the problems. In our individualistic egocentric lives, many of us think that our problems are our business and no one else’s. Ogilvie suggests, and I concur, that it is important to have a few trusted friends with whom you can confide and thoughtfully listen to their ‘listening.’ Become your own best friend. Good friends help others to analyze a problem inside and out, while being sensitive to a friends needs. Often this means being completely honest with one’s self. You can help yourself by questioning, “What can I learn from this, how can I grow from it, and what are the steps I am willing to take to overcome it?” Claim a specific promise. ‘God has a promise for each of our problems,’ Ogilvie claims. ‘Claim Christ as the healing power of God for our physical and emotional ills, the forgiving power of our problems with guilt, the reconciler of our broken relationships, and the source of light in the darkness of indecision.’ Take the first step. If one believes that God’s power, through Jesus Christ, is sufficient to overcome the problems that seem to overwhelm us, then one will accept the wisdom from God, the discernment that accompanies it and act on God’s gift of promise. Prepare for the next problem. Actively seeking God’s promise of presence and healing, we are able to set a pattern in place that will enable us to creatively tackle other, perhaps even more difficult situations. There always will be problems that will have no solution. However, using a template for including God in your decision making, praying diligently and allowing others to be present in your difficulties is always a good practice. Love, peace and grace, Pastor Rich Monthly "Note From Pastor Rich" ( from the Parish Paper - August, 2005)This month, my son Drew begins his final undergraduate year as a senior at Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Massachusetts. Most of you are well aware of the pride that swells up within me when I think of him, how he has matured through the years, the kind of person he has become, and the incredible vision he has for his future. This fall he will embark on a major project that will take him to London, England to work with J.P. Morgan and Associates. While the final decision hasn’t been made, Drew informs me that the only thing left is his reference and that comes from a personal friend of the director of the program itself (what a politician he is, I told him)! This news brings me hope, for Drew, that this experience will be one of depth, excitement, possibilities and promise. Yet, with this joy for his expected success comes some amount of anxiety. With the tragic occurrences of the recent weeks in London, there are certain risks with this undertaking, not the least of which is potential for physical harm. However, I must entrust my son and all who travel and study abroad to a God who envelops each with care, compassion and wisdom. I am convinced that much of what Drew will glean from interaction with professionals in his chosen field will spur him on to greater heights and a greater thirst for learning. I am equally convinced that thousands of students throughout the nation in their last year of undergraduate studies will be experiencing life long benefits as they look to the future. Generally, fall brings fond memories for me because of my love for the academic and social experiences I garnered as an undergraduate. I usually like to emphasize education in my August message because I feel it is incumbent upon all of us to be keenly aware of our continuing need for learning, not only for our children and youth, but for all who claim to be followers of the Christ. As you are aware, Jesus was steeped in the Jewish faith and traditions, being called Rabboni (teacher). By his life and teachings we are led to believe that he thought learning about God and the promise afforded by God was essential to a mature and vibrant faith. In the fall there will be several opportunities afforded every age group in our community of faith. I will be involved in at least two of these opportunities. Those from eighth grade and beyond will have a communicant’s class offered. Presbyterian churches invite pre-teen and teens to embark on a confirmation journey where students explore their faith by learning about our Triune God, the sacraments, the life and order of the church, and how to be a dedicated follower of Christ by sharing of themselves in reaching out to others. Often this journey results in becoming a member of the church. I will offer this class in conjunction with an intentional examination of the Study Catechism. Information and correspondence will be forthcoming in the September newsletter as well as a personal invitation to those students in the eighth grade and above. The Session, in its June meeting, authorized the Christian Education Committee to hold Sunday school classes the hour prior to Sunday worship, beginning in September. This provides me the opportunity to offer an adult bible study that will be either theme or lectionary based. Making scripture relevant to today’s changing society can be challenging but extremely fulfilling. It is my hope that many individuals will join me in this venture where we can examine passages together, become excited about our respective faith journeys, learn how to apply what we have learned to our everyday lives, and teach by example Jesus’ wonderful legacy of love, compassion, justice and peace. In the September newsletter will be a more extensive description of this class. May we all, as children of God, look forward to future learning, equipping ourselves and each other for a lifetime with the tools to be more effective citizens of the world, reaching out to those in need as we follow God’s written and Living Word. Love, peace and grace, Monthly "Note From Pastor Rich" ( from the Parish Paper - July, 2005)(Mark 10: 14; Matthew 18: 6) I want to take this month’s newsletter to share with the congregation members and friends the Session’s projected approval and adoption of a Sexual Misconduct Policy. Due to the wide publicity that has arisen concerning the cases of sexual abuse that have been reported by other churches (some of these cases going back decades), specifically the Roman Catholic church, the Presbyterian Church (USA) has promoted the adoption and implementation of policies that will protect our children as well as those who work with them. A majority of the congregations in Northern New York Presbytery are carried under a Guide One umbrella insurance policy and are required to have such a policy in place. The deadline for producing and implementing said policy is October of this year. First Presbyterian Church of Potsdam began examining the need for and the drafting of our own policy early this year. With a template from the Presbytery, this policy was examined, modified to fit our needs and presented to the entire Session at our last meeting. Each member will have an opportunity to preview the policy, make suggestions for change or enhancement. At our August meeting, the Session will officially approve and adopt the document. It is an unfortunate reality in society today that we must take precautions when considering our children and those who work intimately with them. While sexual misconduct and exploitation have been present in churches and other institutions or organizations from time immemorial, much in the past has been given too little attention with a ‘wink and a nod’ or outright suppression of facts due to situations of abuse of power. We want our children to be safe from any predatory behavior that reduces them to objects. The document the Session is considering is 12 pages long and is a thorough representation of that safety. With the foundation of scripture and integration of rules already present in the Book of Order, it will point out the value of children and the staff and volunteers who work with them. The opening policy statement reads, “Sexual misconduct is always a violation of such relationships (professional and volunteer workers) and of the principles set forth in scripture. It is never permissible or acceptable.” The document itself contains explicit behaviors and definitions covered as well as how individual cases should be reported and handled. The Pastor and Clerk of Session will be designated by the Session as a Report Receiving Team and unambiguous procedures are set up to provide investigative, disciplinary and remedial work if an allegation of sexual misconduct is made. In addition to the above, our policy will have incorporated within it a preventative educational component that includes reference checks, background investigative consents, and in some cases, a criminal background check. All staff and volunteers who work with children will be required to read the sexual misconduct policy and sign a statement of that reading and understanding. Those working closely with children and minors will be required to complete a Volunteer Information Form. At this time, only staff members (including the Pastor) will be required to undergo a criminal background check. Because this brief overview is not exhaustive, copies of the Sexual Misconduct Policy will be available for your perusal once it has been approved and adopted. It is my fervent wish that the adoption of such a policy will be a preventative measure and not one we will have to consult in investigating or prosecuting any violation of the policy. It is also my hope that the employees and volunteers who are affected by the implementation of this policy will understand that we initiate this policy because: 1) we care for our children and those who work with them; 2) our insurance policy requires a standing and enforceable policy in order to be fully covered; 3) it is morally right and prudent to do so. If you have any questions about this process, please consult with me or George Davis, Clerk of Session. Love, peace and grace, Monthly "Note from Pastor Rich" (from the Parish Paper - June, 2005)Matthew 28: 16-20 “Because God has called me to be a part of a community of faith in this congregation, I make a covenant to become active in community life by . . . ” These words may or may not have a familiar ring to them. They comprise the beginning phrase of the second of four covenants that are a part of our year-long stewardship campaign. This second covenant directs the faithful to be intentional about their commitment to the church. When I think of those things that we are asked to do, I look at the first words of the promises made: praying, serving, participating, joining and volunteering. Looking out over the congregation, I realize I might just be preaching to the choir, so to speak, but each of us needs a reminder now and again about the importance of the gifts that God has given us and that we are blessed with these gifts, not because they are nice, warm, fuzzy or cute, but because they are to be used in the ministry of Jesus Christ, bringing honor to the One who has sent Him. We are blessed with these gifts, that the Holy Spirit, whom we celebrated last week, might direct our good and faithful intentions in thanking God with action. The Great Commission as it is called, Matthew 28: 16-20 has all of these ingredients. Without prayer and the example Jesus set for them, time and time again, the disciples could not have possibly withstood the persecution that was to take place and still promote the Good News Jesus directed them to do. In their own way, the early followers of the Way were prayers. They were urged to pray constantly as we are reminded in Paul’s letters. They prayed for their fellow disciples, they prayed for their families, they prayed for the fledgling groups of believers who gathered to worship in caves, in secret rooms, in hidden grottos. When we as congregation members or friends are urged to pray for the life of the church, it is no less important. Of course there is a missing ingredient in the modern church—we are not persecuted, we are not threatened by an outside force to desist in our worship. However, there is a tendency when congregations are comfortable, to become apathetic and feel that because things seem to be going okay, there is less need to pray. Because of this, we must pray even more. One of the most important lessons I learned in seminary was from J. Randolph Taylor, the president of SFTS. He taught a mid term class on ministry and told us that the role of the pastor is two-fold: comfort the troubled, and trouble the comfortable. So I hope there are some comfortable people out here today and I hope the wonderful Holy Spirit touches some of you to a greater and more productive and fulfilling prayer life. Jesus says to his disciples and to us, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you.” Leaders in the church are not only Elders and Deacons. Leaders in the church since the beginning of the early church were those who took an active interest in the needs of those in the community. Yes, there were names for them, Bishops, Deacons, teachers. But the importance of the duties that each member of the faith community was no less according to what the duties were. Each individual’s part was important. The presence of each individual was revered and expected. Beyond the presence was the importance of actively participating in the life of the church. Today is not different. But is it? What keeps any one of us present here today from becoming active in the life of the church? Are we shy? Do we have a lack of self-confidence? Are we afraid what others might think? We are urged to serve, to serve as a leader. But Pastor Rich, I’m not qualified as a leader. I’m not made out to be a leader. I claim that whatever the mind of a person can conceive, the person can achieve. The most troubling diseases in a human being are excusitis, yabutitis, and detailitis. Sometimes analysis paralysis becomes just as crippling as well. Examine your hearts and minds and see if you have these diseases. Take a risk! Be willing to fail!! Allow yourself to be challenged by God’s wonderful Holy Spirit!! Jesus, when encouraging, rather commanding, his disciples, expected each of the eleven to participate in different journeys in the life of the church. As some of you know, each of the eleven, with the exception of John, was martyred in serving the Christ in developing their ministries and churches. Each one was killed, not only for what he believed, but for what he achieved. Each one of them participated in the life of the church in such a profound way, that it affected not only the religious establishment but the secular government as well. The positive message that was promoted challenged those who watched, waited to see if the ministries were legitimate or not. Because they were and were powerful agents for change in the lives of the downtrodden and marginalized, the authorities were threatened and stepped up the persecution. What have we done in the participation of our church community that goes beyond what the community as a whole provides. What needs have gone unmet because we have been too shy, or disinterested, or uninvolved? The opportunities abound, here and beyond our doors. Give yourself a faith lift, get involved in what is already manifested through our outreach, our mission, our membership, our education programs. We can be quite certain that the manner in which the early followers of Christ got involved in the life of their home churches is vastly different than the opportunities that are afforded a 21st century church member or friend. Jesus would be pleased to know that his statement, “You will do greater things than I have done during my time on earth” has been played out in innumerable ways throughout the centuries. As the global world shrinks with major communication technological advances, the ways in which individuals or groups can manifest the Great Commission are greatly increased. Who would have ever guessed even ten to twenty years ago, that we could communicate within seconds the happenings of First Presbyterian Church via email or internet? The ways we can tap into the marvel of science and technology to promote, teach, excite, deepen faith, in-crease knowledge of scripture, interest others, do mission, are legion. In order to do any of these things, even with the increase use of technology, we must be involved. That takes joining. Boy, I used to hate that word! I never liked joining any kind of organization! In fact, I once joined the American legion when I was in the service (boy, I guess I destroyed my theory there—I did join the Navy!) only because it gave me a chance to play softball!! But we are encouraged to join a study group, join a task force, get involved in the life of the church in any way that fits our life, or lifestyle. Unfortunately, we often only join that which is comfortable for us, and we resist becoming a part of something that might challenge us or give us an opportunity to change or grow. I trust that our plans for the fall will have a number of occasions that will do just that. Early in Jesus’ ministry, He was led into the wilderness to pray and then be tempted by the Evil One. There he had an encounter with his human side, the side that each of us has. This side provided an easy out. Do what I tell you to do, and you will reap all the benefits of power, prestige and all your ego needs with be satisfied. The power that the devil was giving to Jesus was already within Jesus’ grasp. Yet, he went as he was directed by God, to go into the world as a human being, to experience all that that entailed. And he was to go out and seek those who would eventually be the movers and shakers of a world that was not quite ready for his message. He sought out the volunteers. He sought out fishermen, tax collectors, ordinary folks to be the bearers of the revolutionary message of reconciliation and forgiveness. He sought out deeply religious people and individuals who would question and doubt, and asked them to make a commitment to follow. He still wants volunteers. He has sent the Comforter, the Counselor, the One who was there with the Creator, all together, One but Three, to continue the message. And we as individuals and as a church family are encouraged, no commanded, to work all together, to be altogether now, to continue to promote the message of peace and love, of mercy and justice, that others may know the love of God through our actions: pray, service, participation, joining and volunteering. The Beatles sang a song called “All Together Now.” It spoke of everyone working together, everyone getting along with each other, all colors, all people, loving in a special way. While part of it is a bit risqué, the concept is universal. Jesus tells his disciples to teach all nations to obey what He has commanded them: to love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind and strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself. All together Now, God the Creator, God the Redeemer, God the Holy Spirit, commands us to love and to manifest that love in what we proclaim and what we do in God’s name. Let us be the embodiment of our covenant of community life: loving, serving, praying and participating. AMEN Love, peace and grace, Monthly "Note From Pastor Rich" (from the Parish Paper - May, 2005)Recently, someone caringly asked, "Well, are you settled in yet?" With the merging and melding of two households, settling may never happen until the HUGE yard sale that is coming up. All kidding aside, there truly will be a sale and slowly but surely the boxes are being unpacked and the contents sorted with a definite goal in mind: a reduction in chaos and disorder! As I ponder the happenings of the past few weeks, the excitement, challenges, anticipation and support we both have felt, I cannot help but feel God's wonderful love and hand in the whole process of bringing us together. What an awesome God we serve! This month we observe a number of celebrations. The National Day of Prayer is held on the 5th, and is a time to pause and reflect on the ever present need to lift our concerns to God, not only for ourselves, but for the communities within which we live and especially for our country. . It is right that we ask for Divine guidance and wisdom for all who serve the people of this nation. It is also right that we stand up for the promotion of peace throughout the land and the world. We are encouraged to join with others in a fervent expression of our faith in the Creator while considering the innumerable needs and concerns that face all God's children now and in the future. Mother's Day, of course, is a favorite among many individuals and families. For the most part, it is a time to show our gratitude to the one who gave us birth, supported us with love and direction, guided us through challenges that seemed insurmountable, and rejoiced with us with our successes. While celebrating the lives of our mothers and those who provided a positive mother role model for us, we must always remember those who have lost their mothers and still carry the burden of grief. As well, we are careful to recognize that mother-child relationships are not always perfect and there are those who still may harbor resentment and are in need of reconciliation. I encourage those who have been or presently are estranged from their parent or child to seek help to come to a resolution of that separation. In the Judeo-Christian tradition, the Holy Spirit has been an integral part of our faith. And, this month is the Christian community's celebration of the coming of the Holy Spirit to those gathered around the feast of Pentecost. In mainstream Christianity, the Holy Spirit is one person of the Trinity, co-equal with the Father and the Son (Jesus), a part of the Godhead. Christians believe it is the Holy Spirit who leads people to faith in Jesus and the one who gives them the ability to lead a Christian life. The Spirit dwells inside every true Christian and is depicted as a 'Counselor' or 'Helper' (paraclete in Greek), guiding them in the way of the truth. The 'Fruit of the Spirit' (i.e. the result of the Spirit's work) is "love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control" (Galatians 5:22). On the first Pentecost, Jesus' disciples were gathered in Jerusalem when a mighty wind was heard and tongues of fire appeared over their heads. A multilingual crowd heard the disciples speaking, and each of them heard them speaking in his or her native language. The Holy Spirit, as a part of the Godhead is seen as a uniting force for Christians, but as scripture tells us, it "Blows as it wills." Sometimes listening for and following the lead of the Spirit can be disquieting. During this time of excitement and anticipation, we are encouraged to be alert and open to the work of the Spirit, that the Spirit may abide, not only in our hearts, but in our work as servants of Jesus Christ. "Are you settled yet?" might be a question we
ask ourselves, in questioning our faith journeys. As we celebrate the birth of
the Christian church with the coming of the Holy Spirit, we must consider that
our journeys will never be static, but changing with the movement of that same
Spirit. I pray that we as individuals and as a corporate body are never truly
settled, but marching onward, challenged to do what our awesome God, Creator,
Redeemer, and Helper, directs us to do. |
