Belonging to Each Other
Greetings, friends! It feels like it’s been a minute, as they say, since I’ve written one of these notes. I’ve appreciated timely messages from retired and current pastors Jeff, Melissa, Ron, and Judson as well as Mari’s insights about Black farmers; it is always good to hear from the children of our congregation who have grown into adults making a difference in our world! I feel the affection of Paul, Silas, and Timothy as they write to the church of the Thessalonians:
It’s only right that we thank God unceasingly for you, sisters and brothers, because your faith grows more and more, and your love for each other increases…. 2 Thess. 1:3 (IB)
I have been enjoying reading the Inclusive Bible translation, not new (Copyright 2007 by Priests for Equality) but new to me. I have also been enjoying Mary Oliver’s Devotions, selections from over five decades of her poetry attuned to God and creation and the blessing of being alive. I continue to practice breath prayers and am re-reading 30 Days with Julian of Norwich: All Will Be Well.
Our new leadership team- composed of long-time faithful followers of Jesus and participants of this fellowship- is coming together as we seek to serve God’s church and this community to which we have been called. We reflected last night on Paul’s words to the church in Rome:
We have many parts in one body, but the parts don’t all have the same function. In the same way, though there are many of us, we are one body in Christ, and individually we belong to each other. Romans 12:4-5 (CEB)
What does it mean to belong to each other? At times to drive someone to a medical appointment, or make a food delivery, or provide childcare. To pray for each other, reach out and connect, to give a testimony of God’s faithfulness. We are not alone; we belong to each other. So we desire to grow in maturity, to better love and care for each other as sisters and brothers, following Jesus’ example. Meanwhile, I am cautioned by Jesus’ words to religious authorities:
[Don’t] tie up heavy loads and lay them on others’ shoulders…. Avoid being called leaders. You have only one leader- the Messiah. The greatest among you will be the one who serves the rest…. [Don’t neglect] the weightier matters of the Law- justice, mercy, and faithfulness! Matt. 23: 4,10-11, 23b (IB)
So we continue our journey together, learning to love God and love our neighbors with justice, mercy and faithfulness. I am humbled and grateful to be part of this community, and excited to discover what God has in store. And so I pray the blessing of the Thessalonians for us all:
May our Savior Jesus Christ and our Abba God- who loved us and in mercy gave us eternal consolation and hope- console your hearts and strengthen them for every good work and word…. may the God of peace give you peace at all times and in every circumstance. God be with you all! 2 Thess 2:16-27; 3:16 (IB)
-Renée, NCF pastor