Dear friends,
As we enjoy the beauty of fall, we remember that there is a cycle of life. Some things die, some grow dormant for a time, and some things prepare to emerge with new life. So it is for us as individuals and as a community of faith.
This Sunday’s message title is “Disciples Live by Faith”. The scripture is from one of the most minor of the minor prophets, Haggai. There are only two chapters in the book of Haggai, and it speaks to a difficult time in the history of God’s people, the time after the exile when some exiles had returned to their former homeland of Jerusalem, only to find themselves overwhelmed with the task of rebuilding that lay before them.
Disciples live by faith, even when the path ahead isn’t clear, or seems overwhelmingly difficult. That was true then, and it’s true now. The African American church frequently uses a couple of phrases that speak to me. “God makes a way out of no way”, and “God is always right on time.” I hope there’s an “Amen” out there somewhere; that some among you can testify to these truths.
Right now, life is quite difficult for a lot of people. Government workers are furloughed, many in every sector have lost jobs, and many people live with fear of violence or detainment because of who they are or how they look. Please know that your church sees and values you no matter what.
The disruption of income for so many, and the job losses hit people personally, and will hit faith communities as well. Dick and I are blessed with no interruption (so far) of our income and have decided to give an extra month’s offering to Glen Mar, knowing that there will be friends among us without the capacity to give as they would like just now. If you are someone who is blessed to be financially comfortable in these turbulent times, perhaps you would want to join us in giving an extra offering, knowing that others just can’t right now.
We continue to gather our federal employees and others together for support and sharing of resources, and Pastor Chris and I are always ready to talk with you, pray with you, and help you find the support you need. Please don’t hesitate to reach out. Your needs are not trivial; they are important. We want to respond, as pastors and as a congregation.
So, disciples of Jesus, hang onto your faith even in the toughest of times, even if it feels like you’re hanging on by a fingernail. God’s promise is to be with you always, and God doesn’t break promises.
Blessings of Peace+
Pastor Gayle
