Pastor's Message
September 2024
Pastor Ivy Gauvin
Even though the end of summer is still a few weeks away, once the kids go back to school, it seems like it's over. Our time of relaxation is over, and it's back to work for parents, grandparents and other caregivers.
Although we're in the last week of August as I write this, signs of fall are already beginning to appear. For instance, the tree by the red barn on Route 430 already has some changing leaves. The wind from the other night loaded our deck with leaves, which seem all too willing to fall.
In our congregation as well, activities are ramping up. Caring and Sharing has been working on baskets of items for the homeless. See the article in the Mouse for the details. We're having a video series to help us during this election season. And of course, there are ongoing activities like monthly movies.
However, do we do all these things because they should be done? That's not an inherently bad reason. But what about the attitude with which we do them, for example, how do we “help” the homeless? Do we consider ourselves to be superior to them? Or do we help these “poor unfortunates” to make ourselves feel good?
In preparation for my sermon on September 1, I cannot help but see Jesus' emphasis on the heart. What we do needs to come out of a heart of worship, of desire to serve God, as a result of love for God. Jesus wants our inner as well as our outer lives.
I know a middle-aged man who has lost a lot of weight and looks so much better. He posts his exercises at the gym and has been working very hard to get into shape. That's admirable, and I'm glad he's taking better care of himself. My prayer though for him is that he would be equally attentive to his inner life. I'm not sure if he's even aware of that need, despite being raised in a family of faith.
Are our exercises lopsided? Are we fit physically, yet ignoring our inner lives? Jesus quoting Isaiah in Mark's gospel says, “These people make a big show of saying the right thing, but their heart isn't in it. They act like they are worshiping me, but they don't mean it” (Mark 7:7).
What will God do with us if we cry out to him from our hearts, if we pray for God's Spirit to move through our congregation, through our world? What are some changes we might see?
Almighty God, your Holy Spirit equips the church with a rich variety of gifts. Grant that we may use them to bear witness to Christ in lives that are built on faith and love. Make us ready to live the gospel and eager to do your will, so that we may share with all your church in the joys of eternal life; through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.
Amen. Evangelical Lutheran Worship