Back From Vacation

How wonderful it was to be away at the beach on the Outer Banks of NC! I took along some work to do, but never even got close to doing any. This was, in no small part, due to the unexpected blessing that there was no wireless internet access where we were staying. Although I was annoyed by this at first, to be prevented from working while away on vacation really was a blessing! I spent my time relaxing and playing in the sun with Jean and the kids and taking walks on the beach. It doesn't get much better than that!
During one of those walks, Jean's uncle (also a pastor) asked, 'what are your joys in ministry?' It didn't take much time to think of them--Inspiring worship, 'real' preaching, teaching adults and children about God's great love for them, having a supportive colleague in Pastor Marilyn, the wonderful way the people of the congregation supported us during Jean's cancer treatments, seeing Jean healthy again and playing piano/organ for worship and doing music with children.
It is a gift to be able to reflect on our joys and blessings rather than spend our time thinking about the problems that are constantly barking for our attention. I choose to focus on the things that are good about our ministry together. And with regard to those things that are not, I know that I am not alone--I am yolked with Jesus. He is in charge of his church. And he invites us to work together with him, promising to give us rest for our souls. It truly can't get any better than that!

Joyfully,
Pastor Roy+

Thinking about freedom while preparing for vacation

I'm at church trying to get a few things done before leaving on a two week vacation with Jean and the kids. So I may not find time to blog while gone. We'll see.
Since we just celebrated Independence Day, this past week's services had the theme of freedom. As important and treasured as our freedom as a nation is, there is a greater and even more fundamental freedom--the freedom from sin and freedom to serve God and others that comes to us in and through Jesus Christ. Freedom to live life without the burden of having to do the right things to please God and earn your place in heaven. The freedom of knowing, and trusting that you are saved by grace, through faith in Jesus Christ. It's all about grace, God's love, made real for us in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. Now that's true freedom!

Trusting God. Following Jesus. <><

Relationships

Jean and the kids have been gone all week, visiting her parents. With just the dog and me around the house is just so quiet! I really miss all the noise and commotion of my family.

So, since I have no one to talk to at home this week, I've been thinking how important close, loving relationships are in our lives. God created us in God's image. The image of a relational being. Father, Son and Holy Spirit are relationship names. To be created in God's image, then means that we are relational beings--created to be in relationship with other people, and with God.

Trusting God. Following Jesus. <><