June 2025
When I was much younger there was a much-viewed soap opera called, "As the World Turns," and another "The Days of Our Lives." I raised them simply to make a point that life is filled with change - indeed, it is founded on change. To grow AT ALL requires change, and NOT to change is to stagnate until death arrives. Uncertainty is part of our daily lives. We do not know what lies ahead when we get out of bed in the morning, but our faith reminds us that our Creator God, Saving Christ and Comforting Spirit will be with us to strengthen, uphold and guide throughout the challenges we face. I remember the secretary of the church I served in NY. Marge was an amazing display of faith and realism. She had lived a hard life, and during the time I was there found herself undergoing dialysis and had one leg amputated above the knee. Yet, in spite of that frightening event and the depression that arose from it, she grabbed her faith and held on, recovering and learning to use her prosthesis and returned to her life. Sometimes, the health of the body depends on severe approaches to healthcare, but God is there. Sometimes the death of a strong supporter hits suddenly and removes a key element to continued health of the organization, but God is there.
I'm reminded that after Pentecost, the followers of the Way met in homes, sharing scripture, sharing lessons from Jesus, enjoying a common meal and then returning to live their faith before an unfriendly society. As I have watched the decline of the progressive side of Christianity today, I have more than once commented that I'm not so sure it isn't time for a return to a smaller, more intimate approach to what we call church. It seems to me that the "Evangelical" side of Christianity, in large part, is trending more into the shadow of the Temple leadership model of controlling by whatever means are considered necessary to hold power. There is, I think, a chance for us to begin to reconsider the approach to worship, ministry and outreach awaiting us in the future. I hope, when the opportunity arises, we will grab hold of our faith, like Marge did, and learn to move in new and different ways to accomplish what our Savior calls us to do, how the Spirit wants us to live.
Peace, comfort and love!
-Rev. Howard Hunt
