A Note from Pastor Lisa
Dear Cokes Family,
It takes a village. It really does! It takes a village to raise a child, it takes a village (church) to bring about community, it takes the love of God to overcome and bring about transformation of heart, home and community.
There is another saying in church circles – “Imagine what our community look like without the presence of the church?”
Both sayings provoke awareness. Becoming aware of “what it takes” or “how you impact your surroundings” is sometimes hard to take hold of. Sometimes awareness comes with loss or by other means such as unexpected or even expected change. There are vacuums left, empty spaces that cry out for attention or filling.
Yet, change is part of life. The spaces left call our attention to what is important. Our Christian way allows us to live into the change. Change can be embraced with faith and tempered in hope as we trust God and the Holy Spirit to work. Deeper appreciations of what is in place become evident. Stronger commitments can rise up to nourish and develop the good things are being done for the kingdom of God. New things come about as we lean into the Holy Spirit.
As I prepare to retire, my “awareness antennae” is up. I am aware of this bittersweet time personally and professionally. Sweet, because now my time will be focused on Jack, mom, our children and grandchildren. Sweet, to think of slowing down a bit, enjoying some hobbies and maybe a bit of travel? Bitter, because I see the impact of pandemic and the weariness we have with the continued responsibility to be safe for one another with masks, etc.. The world is struggling with how to go forward, just as we are. My heart hurts for the church as it is yet another casualty of Covid. Sad, for the church is not all it could be for Christ.
As we have journeyed together these last five years, I have seen your heart for God. I pray that you take time to become aware of Cokes Chapel’s importance to community as a place that offers a place of hope, respite, encouragement and salvation. Without Cokes, what would this community look like? Consider: “am I a part of the transforming community that makes up this village?”.
It has also been said that God doesn’t need you, so much as you need God. It’s true that that God will prevail with or without you or I. But then, is that what reflects God’s heart? There is love, community, and potential that God is waiting to bestow on you. Just imagine. The God of the universe knows you, your name, your gifts and potential. There is a space waiting for you at Cokes Chapel.
Listen for how God is asking you to contribute…. and then get on with it! I appeal to you, don’t get sidetracked with things other than bringing the Good News to the world. Act in love. Seek peace. Resist aligning with one side or the other, one opinion or another.
May we seat ourselves at the table of ministry in choices that build the kingdom and love one another in ways that allow us to commit with heart and action to do what is pleasing to God. Today. Tomorrow. Forever.
Love and peace,
Pastor Lisa |