Pastor's Reflection 2024-04-25
On April 14th, we arrived back from our Wesley Japan Trip. It was a wonderful tour. We went to Osaka, Nara, Kyoto, Hakone and Tokyo. We landed on April 3rd, just as the Cherry Blossoms were in full bloom.
Throughout the trip, there was lots of laughter, awe, and even some moments of vulnerability. From navigating bustling Shibuya crossing in Tokyo to marveling at the serene beauty of Kyoto's temples, our shared experiences created a bond that grew from stranger to more than mere acquaintanceship.
As I reflected on the trip, it was clear that the memories I will cherish the most are those made in the company of others. Our shared journey through Japan was not just about visiting landmarks. In the end, it was the relationships that were nurtured on the road that truly made the trip worthwhile. Through it all we became a community, supporting and uplifting one another along the way. To that end, after I arrived home I thought about how similar “church” was to our trip.
Both the church and our trip worked to foster a sense of belonging and support. It was important for me, that no one on our trip felt excluded or neglected. In a loving church, members care for one another, offering encouragement and assistance in times of need. Similarly, on a trip with 32 people, the camaraderie and mutual support created a supportive atmosphere where individuals (I hope) felt valued and cared for.
Also in a healthy church, people from different backgrounds come together in unity, embracing their differences and celebrating their shared desire to connect with the sacred. Similarly, on a trip to Japan, each traveler brought their unique perspectives, which enriched the collective experience.
A church and our trip, both provided opportunities for growth and learning. In a loving church community, members support each other's spiritual journeys, and provide guidance and wisdom along the way. Likewise, on a trip with 32 people, travelers had the chance to learn from one another, and gain new insights and perspectives about Japan and ultimately, learn more about themselves.
Lastly, I felt like both church and the trip to Japan, offered opportunities for connection, support, and personal transformation. I hope we can do travel to Japan again. Perhaps in 2025!
Throughout the trip, there was lots of laughter, awe, and even some moments of vulnerability. From navigating bustling Shibuya crossing in Tokyo to marveling at the serene beauty of Kyoto's temples, our shared experiences created a bond that grew from stranger to more than mere acquaintanceship.
As I reflected on the trip, it was clear that the memories I will cherish the most are those made in the company of others. Our shared journey through Japan was not just about visiting landmarks. In the end, it was the relationships that were nurtured on the road that truly made the trip worthwhile. Through it all we became a community, supporting and uplifting one another along the way. To that end, after I arrived home I thought about how similar “church” was to our trip.
Both the church and our trip worked to foster a sense of belonging and support. It was important for me, that no one on our trip felt excluded or neglected. In a loving church, members care for one another, offering encouragement and assistance in times of need. Similarly, on a trip with 32 people, the camaraderie and mutual support created a supportive atmosphere where individuals (I hope) felt valued and cared for.
Also in a healthy church, people from different backgrounds come together in unity, embracing their differences and celebrating their shared desire to connect with the sacred. Similarly, on a trip to Japan, each traveler brought their unique perspectives, which enriched the collective experience.
A church and our trip, both provided opportunities for growth and learning. In a loving church community, members support each other's spiritual journeys, and provide guidance and wisdom along the way. Likewise, on a trip with 32 people, travelers had the chance to learn from one another, and gain new insights and perspectives about Japan and ultimately, learn more about themselves.
Lastly, I felt like both church and the trip to Japan, offered opportunities for connection, support, and personal transformation. I hope we can do travel to Japan again. Perhaps in 2025!
Posted in Newsletter 2024-04-25