Wednesday Nights

I made my way from the office down the hallway to the adult wing for a meeting Wednesday evening. There were so many sounds of life around the building and I wanted to share my delight and joy with you. I could hear the handbells rehearsing in the sanctuary. As I walked down the steps, I could hear the youth getting ready for worship -- yes all the way from the youth room. I peeked in the Great Hall and the kids were having a wonderful time. When I started toward the meeting room I would be in, I noticed at least 15 people in Room 500 for the beginning of, “Finding Peace in an Anxious World,” led by Judy Turner.

I gathered with five members of our nominations committee in room 502 as we continue our work preparing the fall slate for election. We sat safely distanced with our masks on, but to be in the same room as we are doing this work is a huge benefit.

You know what I did? I said, “Thank you, thank you, thank you,” to God all the way down the hallway. I don’t know what tomorrow will bring in terms of what we have to do to keep each other safe. But, I do know that Wednesday night was really, really great. I know that I am so grateful for the energy you bring with you as you join us, either on Wednesday nights or Sunday mornings. I know that it brings me joy to check the connection card results each Sunday afternoon and see how many of you are tuning in online as we stream our services.

Serving Jesus is a team effort, Faith. What you will receive if you are here on Wednesday nights really does feel like our team is coming back from a long “off season.” I am proud of our students who are showing up each week for worship and small groups. I am proud of the adults who join them to lead their small groups. I am so grateful for the adults and kids who read the bible together each Wednesday evening and provide a strong foundation for those who will join the youth group in a few short years. I praise God for the musicians who are committed to offering their gifts -- and preparing well for what they offer in worship for us. And, I’m praying for those in Judy Turner’s class. If we ever needed a class on, “Finding Peace in an Anxious World,” this is it.

Oh, as I came back to the office after the Nominations meeting, the praise band was rehearsing. Cali Ortega was singing and I just stopped at the door to soak up her incredible voice. It carried me to a place of Holy Spirit richness. I hope you’ll join us this Sunday, whether in person or online. Let us worship the Lord...TOGETHER.

Every blessing,