Dear Grace,
It definitely feels like summer is upon us. When we had the idea of commissioning those who have been a part of Grace, but are making a move/transition this summer, we had no idea there would be so many. From graduating high school seniors to military families being reassigned to some who were just moving, I was moved by the visual of those we were saying goodbye to this summer. I’m so glad we had the opportunity to be reminded that we are all on mission, being sent out and relocated to various places where God is at work. It was a fitting end to our month of remembering the God who is on mission.
As we make the turn into the summer, we’ll be revisiting the Story of God as described in the book of Judges. If you remember the previous summers, we’ve called this series, “Faithful: the story of a God and His people.” We looked at the exodus of Israel from Egypt into the wilderness, then last summer we looked at the leadership of Joshua as the people entered the land. This summer will be the next installment in the time and period of the Judges. It’s the depiction of what happens when God’s people forget that they are God’s people, and become like the nations all around them. While it can be a heavy and disturbing book at times, it also highlights some important aspects of God’s character and ways.
If the book is new to you (or if you just want an overview), the Bible Project has a great animated video to introduce the book. It’s less than 10 minutes and will prepare you to receive what God has for us from this book this summer. You can watch ithere. As a reminder, Pastor Thomas will also be leading a co-ed Bible study to go a bit deeper into the text on Monday nights. You canfind out more info at our website.
If you’re looking for an easy way to get to know some people, either because you’re new or you want to help welcome others, we encourage you to bring your favorite dish to share, as well as a chair or blanket to sit on, and join us for our First Friday picnic on June 7 at the Pavilion behind the building. It’s a really casual way to meet some people in an unhurried and fun space. Register here.
If you have teens, keep in mind that there are so many opportunities to serve and connect in meaningful ways. Our student ministry team has put together a variety of opportunities: from serving residents at Brighton Gardens Senior Living Center on Thursdays to fun-filled Bible & basketball Saturdays to fun outings. As well, you’ll notice in the month of June that high school students will be released alongside middle schoolers for their own unique time of connecting in the Grace Place. It’s our attempt to help incoming freshmen connect into the high school ministry from the get-go.
I’ll have to admit, I’m really looking forward to this summer. If you recall, my family and I have been away for the last two summers receiving some much needed rest and renewal. This summer, I’m looking forward to being around, working on the church, teaching through Judges, and dreaming about what God wants to do in the coming year in and through us. I am very hopeful abut what is to come.
I pray that in the coming weeks, your time will be filled with celebration and remembering God’s good and faithful work in your life over the last ministry year. As we learned from Ecclesiastes, don’t take it for granted. Life is so unpredictable and short – hebel.
I’m continuing to pray for the recent surge of those in our body who have lost parents or loved ones. Join with me in asking God to bring a fresh reminder of the hope of resurrection and a sweetness of mercy in remembering those who have gone to be with the Lord.
As I reread this edition of Poema, I’m reminded again of the constant juxtaposition of life and death, joy and grief, activity and rest. I pray that God gives you the grace to live well in the midst of that beautiful tension…even as the season changes from one to the next.
