Yes, that’s a root meaning of “worship.”  So, as we gather on Sundays (or any other time) we are choosing to trust what is worthy. To seek what is worthy.  God’s grace and truth known in Jesus Christ. Time well-spent in “good company” (not perfect) for silence, contemplation, music (energy medicine, some would say:), learning, sharing and serving.  Preserving a space of beauty and history for the sake of growth in fruits of the Spirit. Learning from the testimonies of the past in a discerning and present-oriented way.

“Think on these things,” Paul would say in Philippians 4.

I’ll be attending the memorial service of my dear friend and colleague Darla Dee Turlington in Palm Coast, FL tomorrow.  I had the honor of working closely with “Dee Dee” for four years on a national Ministers Council Board, and learned so much from her example.  She was a constant prayerful friend, and rejoiced in our Eden ministries and “Raising the Roof” capital campaign, which she supported generously in 2020. Her obituary is a perfect window into the life of one who lived in the light of Jesus Christ and left an incredibly worthy legacy.  On August 5th, I’ll join many local UCC siblings and others honoring the life of Rev. Betsy Bueschel at St. Paul’s UCC Church in Lincoln Park.  This incredible leader–who I knew as teacher, sage, and colleague–died in a tragic accident. Her obituary is a reminder of the worth of all her precious days, and the truth that none of us are guaranteed tomorrow.  

My thoughts and prayers are with you as you make choices this day. What is worth your time? That might be an American consumer question.  What is truly worthy in this life… that takes us a little deeper.   I’ll meet you there.

In Christ’s Peace,
Pastor Jacki