Remembering

September 11, 2009

Dear family and friends of WCPC:

Today and tomorrow are days for remembering.  First, we remember 9/11.  When I remember and reflect back on those events the memories I dwell on  revolve around both the heroism that was so obvious and the unity, not only of our country, but of faith communities within our country, as we sought to comfort and encourage one another in a season of great trouble.

I remember how in Marietta, where I served as pastor,  we held a worship service several days following the events of that tragic day.  I recall the sober nature of that gathering, but also the hope that we found assurance in.  I remember how churches were filled with people seeking comfort and direction.   I also remember the many efforts undertaken to stand with our Muslim neighbors, most of whom were American citizens, who were also so devastated by the events of that day and in many ways continue to feel its impact. 

The passage I remembering reading often in the days and weeks that followed was Psalm 46:  “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.  Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change, though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea; though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble with its tumult.  (verses 1 – 3)

And so God is!  We also remember this weekend Hurricane Ike and its aftermath.  Again, we could focus on what was lost, but I choose to focus instead on other things.  I remember the 140 folks who gathered for worship in our sanctuary that Sunday.  We had no power, except the power of the Holy Spirit.  I remember how members of this congregation, almost immediately after the storm started to help their neighbors and friends with recovery. 

One memory I will not forget is Warren Johnson, in his ninth decade of life, when driving by our home and seeing a tree on our roof, stop, knocked on the door and wanted to know if I needed his help removing the tree. 

Of course recovery efforts continue, and will for some time,  for many in our region whose houses and lives were so devastated.   While national attention has moved on to other events, faithful people of all ages continue to give of their time and money to help others get back on their feet. 

I’m certain each of you have memories, both good and bad, of both of these events.  Let me encourage you to reflect upon them in the days ahead, giving thanks to God for God’s presence and grace and seeking to always be open to where you can be a means of sharing Christ’s love and mercy .

This Sunday let me remind you of the Ministry Fair in the Fellowship Hall during the Sunday School hour (9:45 – 10:45) and immediately after the 11:00 worship service.  Many of the active ministries in our church will be displayed, both for your information and prayers, but also for your involvement.  There is literally something for everyone.

Also this Sunday we begin a new theme in worship:  “The Joy of Discipleship.”  Using passages from the lectionary over the coming months each of us will be encouraged and I hope equipped to consider the next step in our growth as disciples of Jesus Christ.  This Sunday my message is “You’ve Got to Serve Somebody” and the passages are Psalm 19 and Mark 8: 27 – 31. 

I look forward to the positive, good memories that we will make together!

Your pastor,

David Jones