A NEW BEGINNING. We’ve heard these words in sermons, pulpit talks, coffee chatter, and through the many ministries of this place. I’m here to say we will be seeing and hearing them a lot more.
A NEW BEGINNING. How can three words be so scary and exciting at the same time? I suspect some of you are wondering what does A NEW BEGINNING mean for St. Mark? What surprises are in store for us as a community of faith? And how will this NEW BEGINNING affect me personally?
In August we held our council/staff retreat with Pastors Beth and Eric. We each were given an opportunity to share our personal vision for St. Mark; from there we started brainstorming, talking, sharing, plans began to take root – A NEW BEGINNING was taking shape.
Don’t tell anyone, but truly, this whole A NEW BEGINNING thing is giving me some anxiety. Really. Chaos is taking up residence in my brain as I wonder how we as Lutheran Christians are to: (1) live in God’s word, (2) live with God’s people, (3) live out God’s love, and (4) live in God’s grace at this time, in this place. It’s all so exciting – so much to do!
But all these changes can be difficult for some of us as well, and I find myself wanting to say, “I am sorry for the sense of chaos.” But then I am quickly reminded that God brought forth creation and life and beauty from chaos – and this is a good thing – a very good thing. God even said so.
Out of darkness came light. Jesus is our Light. We are His.
St. Mark’s NEW BEGINNING is a journey; a journey that will have detours and celebrations along the way. So as we walk this journey let us always ask Jesus to lead us to the light, away from our faults and failures and darkness, to be a part of the world living out our faith in service to our neighbor.
My prayer for St. Mark is that every step of our NEW BEGINNING journey will be pleasing to God. Amen.