Dear Friends,
As many of you know, I traveled this weekend to Arlington National Cemetery for the burial of my grandfather’s remains. Truly, it is sacred ground with the sacrifice of so many lives represented there. Most of us reflect on such struggles and sacrifice and give thanks for our freedom, being grateful for the widespread peace our world enjoys for the most part. It’s such an ability to give thanks and consider the blessing of our circumstances that helps each of us in the current trials we face. Whether going through financial or job struggles, emotional or physical stress, we become victorious when we can see past the present circumstances and give thanks for simple things we would otherwise take for granted.
I was reminded of this great lesson in a very unexpected place…not in a military eulogy or daily devotional, but of all places a popular woman’s magazine that I was reading on the plane. I was surprised and uplifted, to say the least, to read an article that urged readers to focus primarily on spiritual blessings instead of material ones. Several “experts” were quoted…including one pastor/author, and two other clergywomen at the head of major Christian and Jewish groups. Besides touting a positive attitude the article actually endorses worship as a powerful tool for transforming our outlook and approach on life. Here’s an excerpt:
A faith community can feel like a supportive extended family. Going to church or synagogue during the week to meet friends or volunteer our time can be a mission when we have no job to go to daily or we don’t know what to do next. “Miraculous things can happen when we join hands to help one another. Working together also relieves our fear and anxiety, and give us a new surge of energy,” says Rabbi Schonfeld. Maybe you just flat-out know you need help. If you haven’t been involved with a church before, turning up when you need groceries or you just got a pink slip can feel embarrassing even hypocritical. Do it anyway, suggests Rev. Jefferts Schori. “Many times we change our lives for the good, or begin a spiritual journey, when we’re feeling the most down and vulnerable,” she says. [Salley Shannon, Woman’s Day magazine, Oct. 6, 2009]
I’m not sure if I was more impressed by the simplicity of this message or that I found it in secular magazine. I pray that the Holy Spirit uses it as an opportunity to touch people’s lives who may need inspiration to make the next move toward God. This Sunday we will celebrate World Communion Day and talk about the Holy Spirit as Agent of Change. “My life is a work in progress,” will be our motto. Don’t miss our fun morning starting at 8am- Breakfast with Don Mclean, then children’s worship & playtime, worship at 10:30 and coffee hour.
May God’s peace be with you as we continue this spiritual journey….
~Pastor Amber
