PENTECOST XIV
September 11, 2022
“The Same Spirit in All We Do”
Last week, driving down a familiar street, I noticed that a now-rare large maple tree had a large clump of bright orangey-red leaves on one side. I’d seen one lonely little red leaf on the burning bush in my own yard, but this was an eye-catching and very fall-ish indicator that the season is changing. I’ve always thought of seasonal changes as enjoyable and interesting — just about the time summer wears us down, the days get shorter, nights are cooler, and eventually the new season is fully upon us.
Seasonal changes or life experiences come along, and there are always challenges — some interesting and enjoyable, others difficult and painful. The past few years have created stresses and complications that many of us could never have anticipated, but we’ve found strength through the love and support of friends and family, as well as finding that we’re able to reach out to others in their time of need.
When our congregation couldn’t gather for worship, learning, or fellowship, a significant number of members stepped up and came up with ways to serve and connect us. St. Andrew didn’t just dry up and blow away — ministry in many forms continued in ways that had never before been tried. We’ve learned that there are many, but one way I’d like to describe or define the church is as a place of opportunity — to discover ways to learn, to serve, to deepen our faith, to share, to build up and support not only one another but all who need our care and concern.
The Apostle Paul reinforced the value of varied abilities in his letter to the church at Corinth:
“Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of working, but it is the same God who inspires them all in every one.” (I Corinthians 12:4-6, RSV) Reflecting on the struggles, growth, and triumphs during the pandemic and derecho, the remarkable variety of gifts and abilities to be found among our fellow members and other friends is to be appreciated and celebrated. We learned that we were able to support and adapt to interim pastors, an intern, and several Sunday morning worship leaders. All of these individuals have ministered to us with kindness, caring, and commitment. We have been blessed to have shared this journey with them.
As the season of the year is undergoing a change, new things are happening at St. Andrew as well. Sunday School will begin soon, and a pastoral candidate will be our guest as we hope to find the right fit for both pastor and congregation. Going forward, looking to the future as God’s people in our community, we’ll find challenges and opportunities beyond what we can imagine right now. The Holy Spirit will guide and strengthen us as we find new and exciting ways to share our abilities, move out of our current comfort zone, and find true joy in the Lord!
Appreciating the gifts of those around me,
Your friend in Christ,
Mary Rogers