Disciples of Christ,
Sometimes when the church is completely empty (which isn’t often), I just wander through the spaces. I think of how those spaces are used. I think of the people who enter those spaces, people who come to give and those who come to receive. Often, each person does both – gives and receives.
So much happens within these walls. The conversations sharing laughter, joys, challenges, pains, concerns. Sometimes even the silences. People opening themselves up to each other each time they enter these doors. In doing so, they allow themselves to become vulnerable to those around them. Vulnerability allows growth in understanding and empathy. Joys are doubled and sorrows are lessened.
As I walk through the spaces, I listen for God’s Voice. To day, I was reminded of how Jesus was with people in their moments of vulnerability. I think of the story of the woman caught in adultery, how Jesus was the only one in the space that was without sin, and yet he didn’t throw any stones. He came alongside of her, defended her, restored her.
I think of Jesus with Zacchaeus, this one who was an outcast even among his own people and how Jesus called him by name and went to his home and shared a meal with him and his ‘outcast’ friends. Jesus came into situations and created a safe place with his presence for all that needed it.
That is what I see here among us. People creating safe places for each other. A shoulder to cry on. An ear to hear. Hands to help. A place where people can be themselves. Where being vulnerable and sharing their brokenness is okay. Healing can only happen in safe places. Safe places are formed when we allow ourselves to be Jesus for others.
And he went throughout all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction among the people. Matthew 4:23 ESV
Here’s the Lisa version of this verse:
And they went throughout all of Tomahawk and Spirit and the surrounding areas, teaching in their churches and community organizations and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction among the people.
Keep up the good work. I love you all.
Pastor Lisa
