Got caught up a bit on neglected gardens.  Began planning for a memorial service to be held this Fall. Enjoyed watching Renaissance team love on our building.  In a few minutes I will be giving a tour of Eden to one of our longest and best friends, Craig, visiting from Seattle.  He’s one of my ministry mentors, kind of a spiritual parent for both of us, and very interested in our revitalization and campaign.  This varied day reminds me that there is greater joy in every day when I pause to remember what grounds me and to what and whom I feel connected.   Sometimes it can feel like we are just going through the motions…when I pause to be “on purpose” about these connections it makes every hard thing a little easier. 

I hope wherever you are this day that you can pause for a moment of such reflection and be renewed – even in the midst of weighty tasks – by the grace of these connections in your life.

We’re beginning a new worship series this week, entitled “A Guiding Presence.”  We’ll be reviewing key stories from the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament to remember the God who’s always there to guide us, even when that presence seems lacking or unfamiliar.  One of my favorite modern hymns is “In the Midst of New Dimensions” (which Jonathan sang last week as the Prelude).  We’ll begin learning it October 3rd for the Fall season.  Take a meditative listen here.

In Christ’s Peace
Pastor Jacki