From the Pastor – October 2024
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with
perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.
Hebrews 12:1-2
This is one of my favorite verses of the Bible. This verse comes after a list of names of people that have been the most significant role models in faith. With each name comes a little vignette of how this person’s life demonstrated faith and grace. Or, another way to say this is these are regular people that God used to tell the great story of love breaking into the world. These are common, everyday people who fail and succeed all the while walking with God. The point of it all is that ordinary people accomplish extraordinary things in ordinary ways all because God is good.
This year, I experienced this myself . At the same time, I was reminded again of the real importance of a church family. You have probably heard that we lost my mother after a short but difficult battle with ALS. Working with her church family in Iowa to plan her funeral and reception, we had the opportunity to see church life but from the other side. The manner in which they welcomed us was astonishing to me, especially because I have been to a church or two. Their aim in hosting the funeral and lunch was to serve in the way that made the people in attendance feel most welcomed. They moved tables, cooked food, and rearranged furniture. They even showed us where the thermostat was and recommended that we set it at the temp that we thought would be most pleasant to guests. When it was all over, they said it was the largest, loudest, and most fun funeral they have ever had. I’m still not sure what to make of that distinction, but it sounds pretty good.
These are ordinary people who are doing ordinary things that demonstrate God’s extraordinary love. In doing so, we see Jesus through them. It is simple work, cooking, cleaning, and serving. But, this ordinary work was done with extraordinary love. That is what makes all the difference.
We had a similar experience right here in Bay City. Last week we lost Kat Whitten, a currently serving Elder in this church. And, the church turned out in droves! We had enough food to hold the service all over again and lots of people to help. In the end, the family was tremendously moved by the congregation’s care for them. I am moved by the love you have demonstrated to the family.
Like the passage from Hebrews, as we serve, the focus is on Jesus and sharing the love and compassion we find there. Peripheral matters that can distract us from service are left by the wayside. It’s in these moments that we can see Jesus most readily in each other. We are the hands, feet, arms, ears, and feet of Jesus for each other. It’s for this reason that I say we hear the Gospel in the
sanctuary but we experience it in the kitchen and dining room. Then, we demonstrate it to the world.
When I think about Richard “Pete” Whitten, in the wake of losing his bride of 30 years, the importance of the church takes on brighter significance. We have an opportunity to demonstrate God’s presence here and now. When someone in our community grieves, it is all too important to encourage, comfort, support and pray for each other. I’m thankful for the way you do that.
Moving forward, we have many in our own community who could benefit from some care. Showing God’s love is a gift of yours. We see it in the way you welcome and serve. It is all the better when we do it by fixing our eyes on Jesus. My hope is that we will continue to share God’s love with Pete and many others here and abroad as they grieve or experience life transitions. And, just because Pete is in Michigan, doesn’t mean he is any less of one of ours. Actually, I hear he still comes to church with us via our streamed worship service! If you would like to send him a card, his address is below.
You are part of the great cloud of witnesses.
Focus on Jesus and do ordinary things with extraordinary love. Celebrate the ways God has been present in your life.
Grace and peace,
Pastor Jim