Pastor's Reflection 2025-05-22
As June unfolds, I have begun to feel the subtle shift of the season. The days have really stretched out a little longer, the air feels a little warmer. Many of us have planned and are looking forward to summer plans—vacations, time with family, or (hopefully) simply finding moments to rest.
There’s something holy about this season. In Mark 6:31, Jesus turns to his disciples and says, “Come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest a while.” It is a gentle but powerful reminder that even in the midst of activity, responsibilities, ministry Jesus calls us to pause.
We often associate spiritual growth with doing, e.g., serving, giving, attending, leading. But as Jesus tells us, rest is spiritual, too. In the quiet spaces of our lives, God often speaks the loudest. Summer gives us a chance to reconnect—not just with nature or loved ones, but with the God who created both.
So, whether you’re traveling this season or staying local, I encourage you to carve out sacred space for rest. Read a good book. Watch a enthralling movie. Take a long walk. Sit in silence. Laugh with friends. Listen for God’s voice in the crickets, the summer breeze, in the laughter of children playing at a summer picnic or in the cheering as your loved ones graduate!
Oh and, if you’re in town, come by the church! We’ll be here worshiping, connecting, and welcoming the Spirit of renewal. I pray for a summer of peace and grace for all of you.
Blessings,
Pastor John
There’s something holy about this season. In Mark 6:31, Jesus turns to his disciples and says, “Come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest a while.” It is a gentle but powerful reminder that even in the midst of activity, responsibilities, ministry Jesus calls us to pause.
We often associate spiritual growth with doing, e.g., serving, giving, attending, leading. But as Jesus tells us, rest is spiritual, too. In the quiet spaces of our lives, God often speaks the loudest. Summer gives us a chance to reconnect—not just with nature or loved ones, but with the God who created both.
So, whether you’re traveling this season or staying local, I encourage you to carve out sacred space for rest. Read a good book. Watch a enthralling movie. Take a long walk. Sit in silence. Laugh with friends. Listen for God’s voice in the crickets, the summer breeze, in the laughter of children playing at a summer picnic or in the cheering as your loved ones graduate!
Oh and, if you’re in town, come by the church! We’ll be here worshiping, connecting, and welcoming the Spirit of renewal. I pray for a summer of peace and grace for all of you.
Blessings,
Pastor John
Posted in Newsletter 2025-05-22