The above words opened our Parish Meeting this past Sunday as we gave thanks to the Lord for bringing us to the edge of our promised home-coming. As of this writing, we still await the granting of our occupancy permit. Even so, on Sunday many of us were able to enjoy our first walk-through of the Mission Outpost, a time marked by excitement and closed in gratitude and prayer.
For those of you who weren’t able to be with us this past Sunday, I encourage you to go to iachurch.org/sermons and listen to both the sermon and the Parish Meeting. The sermon articulates the mission of our Mission Outpost, drawing on Jesus seeking, seeing, and welcoming Zacchaeus (Luke 19:1-10). The Parish Meeting provides a map for how we will enter the Mission Outpost once occupancy is granted – heart attitudes, timelines, building overview, and finances.
Once we get word that occupancy has been granted, we will let the congregation know. This is an important, exciting time in the life of Immanuel!
This is an important time in the life of our nation as well. Many have already cast their votes in this midterm election, and many more will vote next week. As you consider voting, and as you’re present to the conversations and media that will dominate these next several weeks, I encourage a continual return to the Scriptures to form your thoughts, words, and deeds. These passages in particular have my own attention:
· Matthew 5:1-11 Guidelines from Jesus himself for political conversations and actions.
· 1 Peter 2:9-11; Hebrews 11:13-16 & 12:25-29 Reminders of who we are, where our ultimate allegiance belongs, and how we are to live.
· Ephesians 6:10-20 Directions for engaging the true enemies conspiring against us.
· Psalm 46
Words declaring Who ultimately is in control.
And, as always, we pray (1 Timothy 2:1-8).
Almighty God, to whom we must account for all our powers and privileges: Guide and direct, we humbly pray, the minds of all those who are called to elect fit persons to serve. Grant that in the exercise of our choice we may promote your glory, and the welfare of this nation. This we ask for the sake of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen. (BCP 2019)
Your Pastor in Christ,
Comments