I love the privilege of ministry.
Just when the number of calls and prayer requests for hard, hard things and broken water pipes under concrete and worry about financial pledges being fulfilled would threaten to squelch any sort of Christmas joy, this week has also brought:
*two phone calls and two e-mails from four different folks sharing relief over benign medical reports
*a phone call indicating the end of a four-year real estate lawsuit against friends, with the ruling in their favor, clearing them of all charges
*sweet and thoughtful Christmas gifts from parishioners that whisper thanks.
*a major contribution to the church from a very happy father-of-the groom for an upcoming wedding
In the midst of snow removal, misplaced purple candles, several small Christmas pageant candidates vying for the special roles of dancing stars (love makes room), a beloved church member passed away very unexpectedly this week. We'll be planning a service of witness to the resurrection for this saint between Christmas and New Year's.
It is a privilege to be invited to draw near to folks as they experience God in all the highs and lows. I give thanks.
photo of beautiful New Hampshire real estate
13 comments:
Thanks be to God.
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A beautiful photo from the state in which I live! We're expecting 12-14 inches of white stuff which will be beautiful, too, but will definitely slow down the electricity repairs.
Lovely, all the way around.
You brighten my life and the world.
Even though I do not feel that way about where I am right now...I have known it before and hope to know it again...it is truly a blessing!
I'm glad you had some things to lift your spirits. I hope the trend continues.
Sorry to read you've lost a parishioner.
I think your calling is cool.
I feel the same, Jennifer. Ministry is such a gift.
I left you a response at my place after your comment. Thank you for making me laugh.
I'm glad to be in a place where I'm having a similar experience of ministry, Jennifer ... and remember being where you are not so long ago Mompriest ... Seasons of life and ministry.
Yes, we are invited into wonderful places. Praise God from whom all blessings flow.
yah... isn't it amazing how holy of a thing that is... to be let into their lives and to walk with them, and in turn they walk with us?! amazing!
blessings for a beautiful christmas to you & your family...
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