Hard and Holy Seasons

Dear Friends,

Our congregation has, in many and various ways, experienced a great deal of pain, loss, and suffering in the past months. The sudden death of Sydney Robison last week was a hugely public example, but there’s sadly lots more that is less visible. I’m sure I don’t know it all, but my role as priest gives me some glimpse into the depth and breadth of what is not so public and… Wow. This is a season.

Of course, this is also a season in the church’s life that is so great in so many ways — we are growing, taking on new ministries, building relationships that lead to Christ, working towards the building expansion. It is no surprise that pain and hardship seem heavy when there is so much great happening too. Remember, we have an Enemy who does not want us to accomplish the work Jesus has set before us.

If my description of this time resonates with you, especially if you feel overwhelmed at a loss, are afraid, or are just hurting — reach out. Reach out to God, especially. As Paul writes in Philippians: “in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

But also reach out to your clergy, and to one another. And if you are not yourself experiencing a particular trial, reach out and check on those around you. One of the holy gifts of the church is that we do not go through these hard seasons alone.

We are in the middle of two building projects — one to build a brick-and-mortar building, and one to build the body of Christ. The building of the body of Christ is always the most important building project. All of us are laborers on that project, and I’ve been heartened by what I’ve seen as you’ve reached out and cared for one another.

Keep it up and be not afraid. Christ goes before us, always.

In Christ,
Andrew+