April 2025

Dear Friends,

Spring is just around the corner, and the signs are all around us - new bird songs, tiny buds on tree limbs, longer and later sunsets - the earth reminds us that life always has seasons.  There is change and hope embedded in God's creation.

In this season of Lent, our Wednesday services have focused on power and reflecting on our own call to disrupt the patterns of power we see in the world around us. We’ve been trying to recognize where we have used power in harmful ways – often without even being aware we were doing so. It’s an important part of our journey of faith. As is taking the time to consider what is of utmost importance in our lives, what is worth working towards and what is better to leave behind; life's heavy baggage - anger, fear, despair, and resentment. It will be tempting to return to old habits, but try, just a little each day, to embrace instead the newness of life in Christ - gratitude, forgiveness, kindness, and love. Slowly, you will begin to transform your fear and anger into empathy and love.  

When you are on that journey, you will not only feel lighter on the inside, but you will begin to shine on the outside. Try looking in the mirror - see the image of God reflected in you. Let the tears flow if they need to...and smile, knowing you are loved exactly the way you are. When you see the light of God in yourself, you may also begin to see the light of God in others, knowing that deep down there are no strangers or enemies, just neighbors and friends - family.

This journey is a big part of what we strive for at church. I’ve seen that light shine in each of you …in your sincere prayers to God for guidance and healing, in your kind gifts to those in need in our community and beyond, in your cards and visits to those who are in care facilities, in your tears for family and friends who’ve passed on, in your persistence to get our services online for those who can’t join us in person, in your courage, faith, and wisdom through cancer and other health issues, in your personal struggle around job loss, addiction, and family conflict and your resolve to come out the other side a kinder, better person...I see the light of God in you.  

Lent is a reflection of the 40 days of temptation Jesus endured in the wilderness just prior to beginning his ministry that transformed the world. We all have our seasons of being in the wilderness, uncertain of what we may face and what the future will bring. Remember that it won't last forever...the cross reminds us that on the other side of temptation, fear, and despair is love, peace, and joy. Until the Day of Resurrection comes, know that you have a church family right by your side to help see you through.

With the Greatest of Hope

Pastor Erika