February, 2019

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The baptismal waters caught fire in this morning’s Let Me Shine Preschool chapel message.  I wanted the children to imagine how God’s love is transformed into the light of Psalm 27: 
Lord, you are my Light and my Savior, so, why should I be afraid?
As I look at the font, the flame reminds me of the lighted candle given to the newly baptized, as the assisting minister says,
Let your light so shine before others that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.
This holy light from holy baptismal promises moves us to see God’s light in and through the people around us in the Body of Christ.
We give thanks to God for the way gospel light has shone in and through Tracy Hackworth, who has gone beyond all expectations in her service as office administrator.  The position became a ministry, attending to our needs, sharing our joys and sorrows, while transforming an office into a holy space and place of welcome and hospitality.
We give thanks for the light of this congregation’s generosity.  Through your financial gifts, we ended the year “in the black,” supporting the mission entrusted to us.  Beginning this year, our offerings make a difference in reducing our carbon footprint with building renovation.
The light shines through the witness of Rodney and Erin Schroeder, faithful in worship and leaders in stewardship.  In our farewell blessing, the light of their witness extends to their new home and church in St. George, Utah.
The light shines through our baptismal witness all the way to Faith and Poverty Day on the Hill, where we “strive for justice and peace in all the earth.”
And, dear beloved sisters and brothers in Zion, in the waters of baptism we are “beloved.”  Now, in faith, we walk in God’s promise envisioned by the prophet Isaiah:
I have called you by name, you are mine.
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;
and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you;
when you walk through fire you shall not be burned,
and the flame shall not consume you.
For I am the Lord your God.
​Pastor Steve Klemz +
 

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