PENTECOST XX
October 23, 2022
“New Beginnings”
“Indeed, the word of God is living and active, . . . . it is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12, in part)
“You have been born anew, not of perishable but of imperishable seed, through the loving and enduring word of God.” (I Peter:23)
This Sunday, St. Andrew welcomes a new pastor to lead us and join with us as we serve one another and our community. Pastor Rodney Underwood will be getting to know us, both as individuals and as a congregation, as we, too, will come to know him as our pastor and a partner in ministry. We’re all probably experiencing feelings of hope, uncertainty, and cautious optimism. So here we go — in faith and trusting that God will lead us together in the direction to which we are called.
Two and a half years ago, as our congregation began the search for a pastor, the onset of the pandemic and all of its limitations turned the “usual” process upside down. The work of the council and call committee became complicated in every way possible. There we were, unable to attend worship, sing together, connect with one another over after-church coffee, share in learning, participate in service projects, or gather for casual events. None of us had any kind of a guidebook for this situation!
Through it all, we were blessed to be served by good and faithful interim pastors, our vicar, who learned with us and ministered to us, and our Sundaypastors who shared Word and Sacrament. Our electronically knowledgeable members found ways to bring worship into our homes online, our amazing music staff and musicians brought us the gift of song, and there were even take-home communion elements available. So many people gave so much of their time and abilities, and hopefully they were blessed in their ministries as they were blessings to so many fellow members.
Jesus’ teachings in the Gospels include a number of references to embracing what is new. He spoke of new teachings, a new covenant, a new creation, even a new commandment. Considering that for centuries the Hebrew people had lived according to the ancient laws and teachings as found in the Old Testament, all this newness was radical and, to many, offensive. But the message of God’s love and forgiveness for all opened their hearts to a new way of life in relationship with one another and their heavenly Father.
Paul wrote to the Romans describing the new life shared by Christians: “Therefore we have been buried with Christ by baptism into death, so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life.” (6:4). In this verse, to “walk” refers to how baptized believers follow the teachings and example of Jesus as they live in relationship with others.
The creative power of God’s word has continued to be living and active among us, and we are blessed to have a solid foundation on which to build and go forward in new and creative ministries, within and beyond the walls of our building. As we joyfully respond at the end of worship: “Thanks be to God!”
Looking ahead, loving the possibilities,
Your friend in Christ,
Mary Rogers