As I write this, I’m getting ready for my vacation at the end of August. So I’m trying my best to get everything done that I can, which includes scheduling social media posts. I didn’t realize quite how emotional I’d be as I created the photo for a Facebook post about my ordination-versary.
Rally Day
September 8th is already a busy Sunday at our church. It’s a Small Seeds Sunday and our Rally Day. We’ll be starting this year’s pledge series, “Building Discipleship”. Also we’ll be celebrating our new confirmation students. And we’ll be starting off our new Table Catechism series. Oh and the usual adult education, bible studies, breakfast groups, and other programs get back to their normal schedule.
So it makes sense that it’s only been this week that I realized my ordination-versary is coming up. My Facebook memories reminded me that four years ago around this time we were driving from Minnesota to Vegas to start internship. Which means that three years ago we were driving from Las Vegas to Washington to prepare for my ordination and call to Bethany.
Man how time flies.
A Heart Filled with Gratitude
This call at Bethany has been such a gift. I am so grateful for all the ways I am able to serve this congregation. Because honestly, I am constantly amazed at our church, its members and friends. From the loving way our people take care of each other to the caring way visitors and friends are welcomed in.
I’ve been surprised and without words at the acceptance from our church. God’s light of love is shining so bright as we seek to share grace and love with all people. And really all people, regardless of race, nationality, gender identity, sexual orientation, economic status, mental or physical ability, or any of the other ways in which people are often divided. I don’t know if you all know what a gift you are. What a gift you provide to those around you.
Needless to say, I’m grateful. I don’t mean to sound like the Apostle Paul sending a letter to one of the early churches. But I can see why he writes with such love for those congregations.
And that doesn’t mean we don’t have plenty of work to do as a congregation. Our ministries are growing and changing and we’re being called into uncomfortable but necessary places. We’re being called to lean in and adapt as a congregation. It’s not always easy, but God’s busy and we’re following along.
3 year Ordination-versary
But I think my biggest takeaway is in the moment that I started looking through my photos of my ordination. Just three years ago, I stood in front of a room of colleagues, family, friends, and members of Bethany and cried my eyes out. Cried my eyes out and made my ordination vows.
And I am so excited for what is to come, for the ways God is working in our church and in our lives. And so as I celebrate this ordination-versary with a busy and exciting Sunday at church, I hope you’ll celebrate with me.
God is good. God is great. Thanks be to God!