Friday, June 1, 2007

Dear God,

When I left for Maine, I completely forgot to do my bulletin and newsletter articles. I had so much on my mind before I left, a daughter in pre-term labor, a church member dying in hospice, a granddaughter to keep in my home, a worship service, and work at home. I simply walked on the plane without a thought of these two responsibilities.

So I entered my study, busying myself with the work of the church. I spit out the bulletin. I wrote my front page article for the newsletter, editing the rest. I made one call after another all day long. I talked with a lot of excited people, happy about many happenings in the church. The Women's Retreat, Catch the Spirit, two candidates for Student Pastor, Ministry of Creative Arts, Piano Recital, Fridays in Contemplation (probably won't be called that but it's close enough). There's a lot of enthusiasm right now. At the end of the day I drifted on angels' wings into my car.

When I stand back and reflect, I am amazed, astounded sometimes at the amount of transformation taking place in our church. At least forty one people know it because they have increased their spiritual investment. They are banking on growing their faith while enriching the church's ministry. How absolutely wonderful it is.

I cannot begin to fathom the love you have for Bethel. You have loved her from her earliest beginnings. You birthed her, gave her life. You welcomed a people who would care for her ministries of love, care, friendship, faith, mission and discipleship. Throughout the years you established her in the community and made her home to so many. Although she has been war-torn at times, she has held onto faith as a sign of her strength. She is a grateful people.

As her current pastor I am blessed. I look at her, especially on Sunday mornings and I see her in all her beauty, the radiant beauty of your son Jesus. We are our best when we gather to worship, a people hallowing God, remembering grace, seeking faith, investing in the future. We are your timeless people, gently holding the reigns until future generations come.

Glorious and Holy God,
we are your people,
celebrating your goodness.
I see your face daily,
know your love,
feel your grace.
I write to say so.

Love, Andrea