Jody's Journal

February 8, 2007

Dear Family and Friends of the Kirk,

I returned from my time of Bible Study with clergy friends as we study the scripture we will use for sermons. Once again I am reminded of the value of Christian community and the way God speaks through our relationships. My understanding of God and life is richer because of our sharing together what we hear the scripture saying to us. My friends challenge me with their questions and give me new insights that I would have never received on my own. I hope you are finding such a place for spiritual growth at the Kirk whether it be with a small group, a special class, a circle, or a group of friends. While away I also spent some time with my dad who is 89 years old and living in a retirement facility. I enjoyed several meals there and saw many people who were members of my home church. I remembered how they had touched my life during my childhood and youth. I thought of how Christian relationships and fellowship had been a means of God’s grace in my life. Community is a gift of God. Last Sunday we had our first Explorer’s Class for those considering membership at the Kirk. There were 29 people present representing different backgrounds. We are very blessed to have wonderful people considering membership here. Whenever I meet new folks at the Kirk I pray that they may find a home of fellowship and welcome where they will experience God’s love for them and encourage them in sharing God’s love with others.

This month marks the beginning of Lent. It will start on Ash Wednesday (February 21) with our potluck supper followed by the Ash Wednesday service. Many report that this is one of the most meaningful services of the year for them. During Lent I am offering a class on Discerning God’s Will. I offer this class in response to the questions I receive from people like, “ How do I know where God wants me to serve?” “How do I know what God wants me to do?” These are questions about call and vocation from people seeking direction in life. We will explore the spiritual practice of discernment which is a gift God gives us to search for the answers to such questions.

Discernment is also the theme we could use in our Long Range Planning for the Kirk. In February I hope you will sign up for one of the small group conversations sponsored by the Long Range Planning Committee. One of the ways we discern God’s will is through conversations with Christian friends and mentors. Our conversations can reveal the passions and dreams God has given us at the Kirk and help us understand the circumstances that may give hints about our future. We need your participation and input in order to help us seek God’s call to the Kirk. Please remember to participate and pray for the Kirk in this time of discernment.

Long Range planning gives me a sense of energy and excitement about our future at the Kirk. Who knows what God has in store for us? Well, God does but the future is yet to be revealed. That’s okay. Part of the joy will be discovering that future together.

In faith, hope and love,

Jody