What does that mean?  For me, it means any task I take up as an individual or as part of a community like Eden, where I am particularly AWARE of the significance of it. Maybe it’s because I am reminded of its part for the larger whole. Maybe it’s because I am able to name the lessons coming from this role or that project, the things I am learning about myself or others or God.

In both of these examples, or others, I am reminded that God’s designed us for creation and collaboration. God uses our “work” (paid or unpaid work, visible or invisible) to grow us and to show us new possibilities of God’s handiwork.  

When I am clear and rested, I more easily take this lens into any project or “business” meeting.  It’s worshipful when I see or trust God’s design in what’s being discussed or attempted.  It’s worshipful when I DON’T see that and then confess in honesty I need more design or direction. It’s worshipful work when I sense a Christiam unity encouraging us, or find delight in someone else’s good idea, or am reflective about something that distresses me.

I certainly experienced  some of these threads  in last week’s Annual Congregational Meeting, where we reflected on 2021 and looked ahead to 2022.  Special thanks to all Eden’s lay leaders and office manager Erin for work on all the materials and presentations. Watch for ways we’ll build on some of the brainstorming about priorities in 2022 (and add your own if you were not present).  People shared things like this —

a) Complete fundraising for sanctuary
b) Build on and design expanded music ministry
c) Resume more neighborhood outreach
d) Reach out to those beloved members who may be feeling a little disconnected
e) Increase visitors and membership

How might you envision fleshing these out? Would you add any hopes for our priorities?  May we be rekindled and renewed by the WORSHIPFUL experience of any “work” we find in lists such as this.

In Christ’s Peace,
Pastor Jacki