Jesus said: “Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.”
Matthew 11:28
Jesus said: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you.”
Matthew 28:18-20
Jesus calls us to gather and to go.
We come to God for renewal. We gather to worship God and in prayer, praise and celebration of the sacraments to be renewed for the journey of life. Why? Because we all carry burdens. God is the source of all that is good and giving thanks to God gives us perspective and fuels our perseverance. God is the source that makes us new each and every day.
To be renewed is also why we gather together in community with fellow travelers in faith. I recently met with long time members of the church who have not felt ready to return to in-person worship—they join worship each Sunday online. They shared how much they miss seeing and being with the people of our church. So many of us share this feeling—the fellowship of the church is a blessing from God. The times we eat together, laugh together, sing together, study the Bible together—this is being the church together—and it is medicine for the soul.
The leaders of this church- myself, Session, and Deacons—continue to intentionally seek ways to keep our community connected even as the Coronavirus, contentious social dynamics, political division, and economic tensions all pull at us. Big gatherings are not scheduled this Fall—but smaller get-togethers are possible. Our Bell Choir is ringing—using the sanctuary’s space to facilitate a safe environment. Our Chancel Choir is wearing their specialized masks. It’s a sign of their commitment to making a joyful noise to the Lord in a safe and responsible way. I lead a time of prayer in the sanctuary each Wednesday and look forward to a bagged lunch time of fellowship on the first Wednesday of each month. The Deacons are meeting and planning ways to help “gather” and connect us. And they are continuing to reach out to their care-partners.
But Christ not only calls us to gather. Jesus was sent to us so we would know the grace of God. And we are sent to go out into the world to do as he commanded. Jesus was clear when he said: I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. (John 13:34) We are committed to being a downtown church showing God’s love to our neighbors. This Fall, our Mission Team is guiding us with a clear mission-theme: Joining Hands to End Hunger. Our newly commissioned Blessing Box is a way we can serve our neighbors in a safe and sustainable way during this on-going time of social distancing. We will continue to work with our Mission partners in Easton - Safe Harbor, ProJeCt, Meals on Wheels- but with renewed commitment. Serving our neighbors is not a burden or obligation. Following Jesus in service fills our hearts with love, hope, peace and joy.
In whatever ways you can, know that you are invited to gather with your church and to go and serve your neighbors. As we gather and as we go to serve in love-- God is with us.
Yours in Christ,
Rev. Stefanie Muntzel