January 2018

A Word from the Pastor:

“For you.” It is my joy and high privilege to offer this profound mystery in bread broken, now given, “for you.” The power of these two little words is staggering. The Creator of all that is, seen and unseen, deeply cares about every single person who comes forward for this piece of bread and sip of wine. “For you.” Those two words make a claim on each person who re-ceives, calling us to trust that God in Christ is for us. Pretty amazing.

A few Sundays ago the Spirit surprised me. I became caught up in prayer for each of you as I placed that broken bread in your hand.

“For you” --- “the gift of strength” I silently prayed, during your journey through chemotherapy.

“For you” --- “God’s blessing in your comings and goings,” I prayed for the visitor.

“For you” --- “that your burden may be light” for the one with the heavy heart.

“For you” --- “the promise of comfort for that day when every tear will be wiped away.”

“For you” --- “the gift of patience and the hope of healing.”

“For you” --- “the Spirit’s guidance in your uncertain future.”

“For you” --- “that you may grow in the joy of God’s good creation”

“For you” --- “do not be afraid.”

“For you” --- “in thanksgiving for your witness.”

“For you” --- “during your transition.”

As each of you step forward to receive the bread and wine, we hear these powerful words: “for you.” They carry us into all times and places, con-necting us with Jesus. With him, there is no time or place that the gospel cannot reach to heal, sustain, and give new life. Then you move along, and the person behind you steps forward --- and we hear those words again. We are reminded that God’s promises are for each of us and yet not for any one of us alone. The “for you” is for you and for each of us in this community of faith. Together, sharing in our joys and sorrows, we celebrate Christ with us and for us. Pretty amazing.

​Connecting through grace,
Pastor Steve Klemz

The Herald - January 2018
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