Pastor’s Corner – Sunday, July 13, 2025
What might Jesus think about Christian nationalism?
Let’s begin by acknowledging that Jesus was Jewish. He was devoted to his tradition. Jesus was committed to a life of prayer. He taught in synagogues. Jesus worshiped in the Temple. Jesus was knowledgeable about and debated with other religious teachers the various interpretations of the Hebrew Bible (what we call the Old Testament). Even Rome understood his religious identity, placing a sign on the cross that read: “The King of the Jews”.
What might Jesus think about Christian nationalism?
Let’s begin by acknowledging that Jesus was Jewish. He was devoted to his tradition. Jesus was committed to a life of prayer. He taught in synagogues. Jesus worshiped in the Temple. Jesus was knowledgeable about and debated with other religious teachers the various interpretations of the Hebrew Bible (what we call the Old Testament). Even Rome understood his religious identity, placing a sign on the cross that read: “The King of the Jews”.
A careful reading of the gospels makes it clear that Jesus did not intend to start a new religion. The break from Judaism came after Jesus’ ministry, death, and resurrection.
Jesus did want his way of Divine grace and peace to spread regardless of borders and boundaries. At the end of Matthew’s gospel, Jesus is recorded commissioning his followers “to make disciples of all nations/peoples” (the Greek word can be translated either way). This effort did not start at the top and work its way down. The followers of Jesus were common people who connected with other common people. The Way of Jesus, as it is described in the Acts of the Apostles, was a grassroots movement.
Over time, a Roman general named Constantine became a convert to the Way of Jesus. When he ascended to Caesar, he brought his faith with him. Eventually, Christianity became the state religion of the empire. The trouble with this new power and authority given to the church was the way it corrupted the humble and servant attitude of Jesus’ followers. Sadly, state sponsored Christianity was prone to excess and violence, as well as systematic persecution and discrimination of others who believed differently. History is replete with similar corruption when governments give preference and official standing to a particular religion. Thank goodness, our founders knew this history and insisted on a wall of separation between church and state.
As a disciple of Jesus, I do not need or want governmental preference or standing. Christ is the sole head of the church.
Yours in Christ,
Marc
Pastor’s Corner – Sunday, July 6, 2025
Dear Beloved,
Thank you for the prayers you offer to God. Thank you for the ways you lift each other, people near and far, and the world up to God. Thank you for the ways you praise God. Thank you for the ways you listen to God. Thank you for the ways you thank God. Thank you for the ways you confess to God. Thank you for the prayers you have said for years and for the ones that aren’t spoken aloud at all. Thank you for praying with me
Dear Beloved,
Thank you for the prayers you offer to God. Thank you for the ways you lift each other, people near and far, and the world up to God. Thank you for the ways you praise God. Thank you for the ways you listen to God. Thank you for the ways you thank God. Thank you for the ways you confess to God. Thank you for the prayers you have said for years and for the ones that aren’t spoken aloud at all. Thank you for praying with me at meetings and on the phone and in worship together. I love praying and deeply appreciate that we can support each other through prayer.
On Sunday mornings when I offer the start of the prayer that we end together in the Lord’s Prayer, I have never found a way to give credit to all who help me find words to pray - ancestors, teachers, preachers, children, animals, plants, authors, devotional writers, friends, people unknown to me, my family, musicians, artists, advocates, Jesus our dearest friend and Leader, storytellers, and scribes…. It is a gift to pray with you. Thank you for the opportunity to pray with you. I am forever grateful. May you know the joy, peace, hope, and love of Christ’s living Spirit in this season and always.
With gratitude,
Sarah
I thank my God every time I remember you. (Philippians 1:3)
Pastor’s Corner – Sunday, June 29, 2025
What might Jesus think about diversity?
Jesus was not limited by boundaries and borders. He called two people to be his disciples who were diametrically opposed politically, a tax collector and a revolutionary. Jesus touched lepers. Jesus allowed sinful people to touch him. He crossed borders to heal a woman’s daughter in Syro-Phoenicia and to bring wholeness
What might Jesus think about diversity?
Jesus was not limited by boundaries and borders. He called two people to be his disciples who were diametrically opposed politically, a tax collector and a revolutionary. Jesus touched lepers. Jesus allowed sinful people to touch him. He crossed borders to heal a woman’s daughter in Syro-Phoenicia and to bring wholeness to a troubled soul in the country of the Gerasenes. He was criticized for his compassion with people like Zacchaeus, Bartimaeus, a person caught in adultery, and a Centurion. Jesus was crucified for political dissent. Jesus made room in his ministry for diverse people. Jesus did not discriminate because of difference.
Jesus worked for unity in diversity, not by requiring uniformity of culture, belief, practice, or even religion. Jesus worked for unity in diversity by exemplifying respect, and teaching forgiveness, fairness, and understanding rooted in allegiance to the love of God, neighbor, and self.
Jesus would not have us fear diversity or fight against it. Jesus taught, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called the children of God.” (Matthew 5:9)
Yours in Christ,
Marc
Pastor’s Corner – Sunday, June 22, 2025
Dear Beloved,
What are your favorite parts of the summer? Summer is my favorite season, so there are many things that I appreciate and enjoy. As far back as I can remember, VBS has been a favorite part of my summer – I was a VBS participant as a child, and then a teen helper and then an adult helper. The summer of shelter-in-place was so strange - I missed Vacation Bible School. After going without, I have an even deeper appreciation for Vacation Bible School, and it has become my favorite week.
Dear Beloved,
What are your favorite parts of the summer? Summer is my favorite season, so there are many things that I appreciate and enjoy. As far back as I can remember, VBS has been a favorite part of my summer – I was a VBS participant as a child, and then a teen helper and then an adult helper. The summer of shelter-in-place was so strange - I missed Vacation Bible School. After going without, I have an even deeper appreciation for Vacation Bible School, and it has become my favorite week.
During the school year, Medicaid says that I have fifteen minutes with a child and then must move on. During VBS, I have the opportunity to sing and praise God with David’s wonderful music ministry and leadership. It is a joy that I cannot put into words. I see the children enjoying the delicious and nutritious snacks that you donate - thank you! We enjoy stories from the Bible and chat and pray together. I hear the kids building relationships with each other and their teen helpers and adult leaders. I give thanks as they love game time with Jennifer and learn cooking with Leonardo, make crafts with Becky, participate in a service project with Jessica, learn gardening with Roberta and Brandon, and enjoy Kristen and Dave’s fabulous decorations. I’m grateful for the ways Linda, Judy, and Sue show up and support kids, teens, and all of us however we need. Each of the adults does a beautiful job of playing with the kids and listening to them. We had a great big bunch of middle school and high school helpers. The kids look up to them and adore them. I’m grateful that kids, teens, and adults all invited friends to come along with them and they did. Praises be to God!
Thank you for your prayers for Vacation Bible School! Thank you for your prayers for kids near and far each day. Thank you for loving and caring for the kids you know and for reflecting Jesus’ kindness to them. It is a blessing to serve our children, teens, and families with you. Thank you for this very, very special opportunity.
With appreciation, joy, love, and hope,
Sarah
Pastor’s Corner – Sunday, June 15, 2025
What might Jesus think about telling the truth?
Jesus put it clearly: “Let your ‘yes’ be ‘yes’, and your ‘no’ be ‘no’ anything else comes from the evil one”. (Matthew 5:37)
Jesus was a person of integrity, his words and actions were in sync, even if it was unpopular. For example, Jesus called his followers “to love their enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44).
What might Jesus think about telling the truth?
Jesus put it clearly: “Let your ‘yes’ be ‘yes’, and your ‘no’ be ‘no’ anything else comes from the evil one”. (Matthew 5:37)
Jesus was a person of integrity, his words and actions were in sync, even if it was unpopular. For example, Jesus called his followers “to love their enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44). Few live up to this demand of discipleship, but Jesus did. On the cross, Jesus prayed for his executioners, “Father, forgive them, they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34).
Jesus has a good reason for telling and living by the truth. “You will know them by their fruits…every good tree bears good fruit, but the bad tree bears bad fruit”, he taught in Matthew 7:16-17. Over time a practice of dishonesty will corrupt our character and pollute our words and relationships with distrust. Respect is earned by those who are trustworthy.
Let us be wary of those who make dishonesty a practice. Let us strive to be trustworthy as we speak the truth in love.
Yours in Christ,
Marc
Pastor’s Corner – Sunday, June 8, 2025
Dear Beloved,
What is your favorite summer holiday? How would you describe it to others? Why is it your favorite?
My favorite summer holiday is coming! For years, I have been captivated and inspired by the holiday of Pentecost. For me, Pentecost is a celebration of God’s Spirit and all the amazing work the Holy Spirit does in and through the world! I love the ways God’s Spirit connects us all.
Dear Beloved,
What is your favorite summer holiday? How would you describe it to others? Why is it your favorite?
My favorite summer holiday is coming! For years, I have been captivated and inspired by the holiday of Pentecost. For me, Pentecost is a celebration of God’s Spirit and all the amazing work the Holy Spirit does in and through the world! I love the ways God’s Spirit connects us all. I love the creative energy of Spirit that we celebrate on Pentecost. As a very practical and pragmatic person, Pentecost invites me to pause and appreciate the wonder, mystery, joy and hope of God’s Spirit. I appreciate the waiting and preparation before Pentecost and the sending that happens through Pentecost. The diversity of languages and cultures makes my heart and soul smile. The interaction of people from different places speaking different languages encourages me. The unity in diversity brings me hope. Recently I appreciated the way one author and scholar wrote about it. In The New Testament in Color, Jordan J. Cruz Ryan writes, “The very first thing the Holy Spirit empowers the apostles to do is ‘to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them ability’ (Acts 2:4).” She continues on to say, “This ensured the multiculturalism and multilingualism of the church from its outset.” How beautiful it is that the Spirit did not give everyone the ability to hear the message in the same language but instead to hear the same message in their native languages! How incredible it is that Perry Township Schools have over 70 different languages present and that Center Grove Schools have over 50 different languages present! Friends, my spirit and mind are bubbling over with so many thoughts that this note to you could become very long, so I am going to pause for now and simply invite us to ponder the story of Pentecost found in Acts 2. I’m excited that Pastor Marc’s sermons will take us on a journey through the book of Acts in the weeks to come. May we be open to all the Spirit is doing in the stories of Acts, in our lives and nearby communities, and in the world God so dearly loves and calls good. May you know you are a loved child of God.
With gratitude and wonder for the journey of God’s inclusive and expansive love where no matter who you are or where you are, you are welcome,
Sarah
Pastor’s Corner – Sunday, June 1, 2025
What might Jesus think about the exercise of power?
Jesus lived under an authoritarian empire. Rome invaded and occupied their neighbors and used the resources in those places to advance an imperial agenda. The peace of Rome was enforced by the intimidating presence of the Roman legions. As in all authoritarian regimes, dissent was not tolerated. As a result, Jesus and his people lacked the freedoms, resources, and basic needs to flourish.
What might Jesus think about the exercise of power?
Jesus lived under an authoritarian empire. Rome invaded and occupied their neighbors and used the resources in those places to advance an imperial agenda. The peace of Rome was enforced by the intimidating presence of the Roman legions. As in all authoritarian regimes, dissent was not tolerated. As a result, Jesus and his people lacked the freedoms, resources, and basic needs to flourish.
Jesus addressed the misuse of power very directly. In response to an argument among his disciples about who would be the greatest when Christ’s kingdom would be established on earth, Jesus said: “You know that among the Gentiles those whom they recognize as their rulers lord it over them, and their great ones are tyrants over them. But it is not so among you; but whoever wishes to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must be slave of all. For the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:42-45)
Jesus’ teaching is very relevant for our homes, communities, and nation today. Let us make a fresh commitment to Jesus’ way of servant-leadership. Let us be wary of any leader, especially in our government established “for and by the people”, who rules by lording their power over us, denying dissent, and taking the lion’s share for themselves.
That is not for us. We are followers of Jesus. We are here to serve, not to be served.
Yours in Christ,
Marc
Pastor’s Corner – Sunday, May 25, 2025
Dear Beloved,
What is growing in you in this spring season? How are you feeling or experiencing the resurrection hope and energy of Eastertide? Or maybe you aren’t or don’t know, and that is okay, too. I ask questions because I care about you and appreciate you and truly wonder.
Dear Beloved,
What is growing in you in this spring season? How are you feeling or experiencing the resurrection hope and energy of Eastertide? Or maybe you aren’t or don’t know, and that is okay, too. I ask questions because I care about you and appreciate you and truly wonder. Often, on Sunday mornings, we don’t get to talk, but I wonder and always like to know ways we can be supportive and of encouragement to you on this journey of life and love no matter where we are in the twists and turns and ups and downs each day (or sometimes each moment) can bring.
In this Eastertide/spring season, Pastor James’ message from Good Friday and Pastor Marc’s message from Easter morning keep filling my heart, mind, body, and soul. Pastor James spoke about Jesus’ last words from the cross. Pastor Marc spoke of Jesus’ words to Mary. What do I say with my words? What do I mean with my words - both spoken and written? How do I convey love and care with my tone and mannerisms? What do I hear when people speak? How do I listen to all my friends who do not use words to speak? How do I interact with people who speak many languages or languages different than the one I know? What words do I use when speaking to, with, and about God? These are some of the things that I have been pondering this season. How about you?
As I have been meditating, one of the first passages I remember learning as a kid keeps bubbling up - Ephesians 4:29 - Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. (Also 1 Thessalonians 5:11, James, Romans 15:2, 1 Corinthians 14:12.) Almost 50 years, and I still have so much to learn! Praises be to God for God’s grace, patience, and forgiveness and the grace, patience and forgiveness of caring communities. I’m grateful for all the individuals, groups, authors, artists, teachers, friends, students, colleagues, peers, friends, and mentors who help me continue to learn to listen and do/be better. Thanks be to Jesus for his words of love, mercy, and guidance even from the cross and for his words of love, mercy, and guidance as he showed up to his followers newly resurrected and still now for you and me.
With love, grace, gratitude, and Easter hope and joy,
Sarah
Pastor’s Corner – Sunday, May 18, 2025
“The Lord God put Adam in the garden to till it and keep it.” (Genesis 2:18)
From the beginning God intended that humans would be caretakers of God’s creation. God is the Creator, Sustainer, and Provider and we are blessed to be God’s grateful stewards. This faith perspective that focuses us on using God’s gifts to care for our earthly home, ourselves, and others is beautifully revealed in the life of our Leader, Jesus.
This concluding article on stewardship focuses on the important gift of respect and unity in the rich diversity that expresses God’s creativity
“The Lord God put Adam in the garden to till it and keep it.” (Genesis 2:18)
From the beginning God intended that humans would be caretakers of God’s creation. God is the Creator, Sustainer, and Provider and we are blessed to be God’s grateful stewards. This faith perspective that focuses us on using God’s gifts to care for our earthly home, ourselves, and others is beautifully revealed in the life of our Leader, Jesus.
This concluding article on stewardship focuses on the important gift of respect and unity in the rich diversity that expresses God’s creativity. In the prayer Jesus spoke on the eve of his death we find this petition: “The glory that you have given me I have given to my disciples, so that they may be one, as we are one, I in them and you in me, that they may become completely one, so that the world may know that you have sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.” (John 17:22-23)
The disciples of Jesus reflect a very broad and beautiful diversity. Disciples represent every continent, culture, ethnicity, gender, age, interest, language, belief, and practice. Unity is possible among such different disciples because of the unifying power of God’s love. It really is just as St. Paul said: “Faith, hope, and love abide, and the greatest of these is love.” (I Corinthians 13:13) Love brings us together in a liberating unity not in an oppressive conformity.
Practicing stewardship holds great hope for renewing and restoring the earth and its inhabitants. That hope can be fulfilled when in love and unity the disciples of Jesus around the world embrace God’s call to be care takers of what God has made and shared with us. The love and respect we emulate are the building blocks of bridges that can bring divided and distrustful groups together for the common good of a sustainable home where everyone’s needs are met and where we live in well-being and harmony.
I know the fulfillment of the Creator’s intentions for stewardship seems unlikely if not downright impossible. But remember, “with God all things are possible”. (Luke 1:37)
Yours in Christ,
Marc
Pastor’s Corner – Sunday, May 11, 2025
Dear Beloved,
How are you in this season that is often full of celebrations and transitions - graduations, moves, gardens beginning to grow? It is also a season that can be full of loss and memories - the month of Memorial Day, a month where classmates and colleagues may be saying goodbye, an end to certain routines and rhythms. Wherever you find yourself, you are never alone. God is with you.
Dear Beloved,
How are you in this season that is often full of celebrations and transitions - graduations, moves, gardens beginning to grow? It is also a season that can be full of loss and memories - the month of Memorial Day, a month where classmates and colleagues may be saying goodbye, an end to certain routines and rhythms. Wherever you find yourself, you are never alone. God is with you. Friedens is a community of the faith and love of Jesus who seeks to journey with you no matter where you are on life’s journey. We seek to trust God’s Spirit and give thanks for God’s grace and forgiveness. We seek to partner with people near and far to be part of God’s work of shalom in every season.
Please let us know if there are certain ways we can be praying with you in this season. I would appreciate your prayers for children and teens who find summer to be a challenging time due to a lack of the structure, supports, or meals that schools provide. I would appreciate prayers for Vacation Bible School and the other special programs Friedens offers throughout the summer. Your prayers are a tremendous gift and blessing. I give thanks to God for the power of prayer and the presence of God’s Spirit - connections that span all time and space - connections that remain through all the seasons.
May you feel God’s compassion and mercy offering you rest, hope, peace, and inspiration in this season. May you always know you are a treasured child of God. May you feel the steadfast hope and eternal love of our Living, Crucified, and Resurrected Leader!
Sarah
Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord himself, is the Rock eternal. (Isaiah 26:4)
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever. (Psalm 136:1)
Pastor’s Corner – May 1, 2025
“The Lord God put Adam in the garden to till it and keep it.” (Genesis 2:18)
From the beginning God intended that humans would be caretakers of God’s creation. God is the Creator, Sustainer, and Provider and we are blessed to be God’s grateful stewards. This faith perspective that focuses us on using God’s gifts to care for our earthly home, ourselves, and others is beautifully revealed in the life of our Leader, Jesus.
One of the God-given gifts we are to cherish and care for is the earth.
“The Lord God put Adam in the garden to till it and keep it.” (Genesis 2:18)
From the beginning God intended that humans would be caretakers of God’s creation. God is the Creator, Sustainer, and Provider and we are blessed to be God’s grateful stewards. This faith perspective that focuses us on using God’s gifts to care for our earthly home, ourselves, and others is beautifully revealed in the life of our Leader, Jesus.
One of the God-given gifts we are to cherish and care for is the earth. Jesus told the following parable about the wonder of the earth: “The kingdom of God is as if someone would scatter seed on the ground, and would sleep and rise night and day, and the seed would sprout and grow, he does not know how. The earth produces of itself, first the stalk, then the head, then the full grain in the head. But when the grain is ripe, at once he goes in with his sickle, because the harvest has come.”
It is a wonder the way God created the earth to produce such a rich and diverse abundance that is able to meet the needs of all creatures who call earth home. As Jesus said, we “do not know how” such abundance is possible. We are to be grateful stewards of the abundance, who are blessed to share with others, so all the needs are met. What a joy!
In the 21st century we have become acutely aware of the way our choices and actions either bring harm or nurture to our home, God’s earth. Stewards are nurturing partners with the earth itself and with all who depend upon her bounty. Let’s increase our efforts of care for earth to ensure future generations can flourish.
Yours in Christ,
Marc
Pastor’s Corner – April 24, 2025
Dear Beloved,
Easter has come! Now we are in the season of Eastertide (the church season that goes until Pentecost - more about Pentecost soon), and I am feeling overwhelmed and grateful, open and wondering. How are you feeling? I keep thinking of the poem by Howard Thurman about the work of Christmas. It has me praying and pondering - what is the work of Easter that we are being called to individually and collectively as followers of our Risen Leader
Dear Beloved,
Easter has come! Now we are in the season of Eastertide (the church season that goes until Pentecost - more about Pentecost soon), and I am feeling overwhelmed and grateful, open and wondering. How are you feeling? I keep thinking of the poem by Howard Thurman about the work of Christmas. It has me praying and pondering - what is the work of Easter that we are being called to individually and collectively as followers of our Risen Leader - the one who saves us from sin - who frees us from anything that would keep all of us from experiencing the shalom of God - the deep and comprehensive peace and wholeness of the Gracious Creator of the heavens and the earth? What does resurrection mean? What does it look like in our hearts and homes, in neighbors and nations, in schools and social circles, in workplaces and marketplaces, in quiet times and chaos, in the world God so dearly loves and in the moments God offers each and every one - all named and called beloved? May we take time this Eastertide to be still with God to learn how we are being called to embody resurrection love, hope, and shalom and may we respond with the trust of those who showed up to anoint Jesus’ body even with all their questions. May you know you are a loved child of God who grace and compassion know no bounds - for nothing can ever separate from the love God made known by the beauty of the Creator, the courage of the Risen One, and the power of the Spirit.
With Easter hope,
Sarah
28 After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb.
2 There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. 3 His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. 4 The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men.
5 The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. 6 He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. 7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you.”
8 So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. 9 Suddenly Jesus met them. “Greetings,” he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. 10 Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.” (Matthew 28:1-9)
Pastor’s Corner – April 10, 2025
Dear Beloved,
How are you as we journey towards Holy Week? Are there specific ways we can be of support to you during this time?
For me, this time of the church year is so full of scriptures packed with a depth and breadth of emotions that leave me with a lack of adequate words - excitement, energy, praise, chaos,
Dear Beloved,
How are you as we journey towards Holy Week? Are there specific ways we can be of support to you during this time?
For me, this time of the church year is so full of scriptures packed with a depth and breadth of emotions that leave me with a lack of adequate words - excitement, energy, praise, chaos, confusion, pain, misunderstanding, injustice, heartache, unmatchable love, sacrifice, despair, loyalty, hope, betrayal, service, trust, attentiveness, denial, wonder, mystery, uncertainty, overwhelming joy, unanswered questions…..
As I read some of the stories and passages often read during Holy Week for some clarity of what to offer to you, I was captivated by the number of times and kinds of prayers we hear Jesus offer. I am grateful for Jesus' prayers that offer us examples. I am grateful that Jesus prayers with us and for us. He prayed passionate prayers of intercession. He prayed prayers of thanksgiving. He prayed prayers for God’s will. He prayed prayers of supplication. He expressed feelings of distress and forsakenness. He prayed prayers of forgiveness and mercy. He prayed his final spoken words before breathing his last on the cross. May we sit with Jesus. May we receive his prayers. May we pray with him. May we know that he loves us and that his love is for absolutely everyone. It is unbounded and unstoppable. It is for everyone. It is everlasting. Let us live out this good news. Blessings of hope and shalom for all this Holy Week.
Love,
Sarah
Then Jesus, crying with a loud voice, said, “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.” Having said this, he breathed his last.” Luke 23:46
Pastor’s Corner – April 3, 2025
“The Lord God put Adam in the garden to till it and keep it.” (Genesis 2:18)
From the beginning God intended that humans would be caretakers of God’s creation. God is the Creator, Sustainer, and Provider and we are blessed to be God’s grateful stewards. This faith perspective that focuses us on using God’s gifts to care for our earthly home, ourselves, and others is beautifully revealed in the life of our Leader, Jesus.
One of the gifts we receive from God to cherish and use are talents. Each one has a talent that makes life better and more enjoyable
“The Lord God put Adam in the garden to till it and keep it.” (Genesis 2:18)
From the beginning God intended that humans would be caretakers of God’s creation. God is the Creator, Sustainer, and Provider and we are blessed to be God’s grateful stewards. This faith perspective that focuses us on using God’s gifts to care for our earthly home, ourselves, and others is beautifully revealed in the life of our Leader, Jesus.
One of the gifts we receive from God to cherish and use are talents. Each one has a talent that makes life better and more enjoyable. Inspired by Jesus, St. Paul envisioned the church, “the living body of Christ”, as a community of folks with God-given talents. “Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.” (I Corinthians 12:4-7)
Stewards identify their talent by paying attention to the gifts that feel natural, produce joy, and feed passion. Directing your activities toward your God-given talent will not only bless you but it will also be a blessing to the common good. Stewards serve God by serving others with their talent. It is one important way to make a positive difference and to leave a legacy that endures.
Yours in Christ,
Marc
Pastor’s Corner – March 27, 2025
Dear Beloved,
How has your season of Lent (the season from Ash Wednesday through Holy Week that offers us an opportunity for repentance and deeper reflection in preparation for remembering and celebrating the resurrection) started out? I am grateful for Dr. Rev. Hannah Ingram’s message on Ash Wednesday and Pastor Marc’s Sunday messages throughout this season that are guiding me. I am thankful for the choir, minister of music, and organist who help me be still in our community worship time.
Dear Beloved,
How has your season of Lent (the season from Ash Wednesday through Holy Week that offers us an opportunity for repentance and deeper reflection in preparation for remembering and celebrating the resurrection) started out? I am grateful for Dr. Rev. Hannah Ingram’s message on Ash Wednesday and Pastor Marc’s Sunday messages throughout this season that are guiding me. I am thankful for the choir, minister of music, and organist who help me be still in our community worship time. I am thankful for artists, authors, prophets, and poets who help me grow and for the opportunities to be in conversation with you and with people, creatures, and the creation that I am blessed to be around. One of the authors that I am grateful for this season is Mallory McDuff. Her book Last Best Act is helping me take time to think about regenerative death and how my morality can bring life and blessings. As a pastor’s kid, funerals were common dinner time topics. I am grateful that we grew up talking about death. I’m grateful that I grew up being taught that no matter what, not even death separates us from God’s love.
As I grew up, I learned that it is important not to try to rush or hurry people’s hurt and pain. Grief is complex and different for everyone. Words often fail me, and in those times, I hope that I can stay present in whatever way the person or people need and in that presence to share God’s love and care. I still have so much to learn about how to do this well.
Being at funerals and the season of Lent lead me think about my mortality which helps me think about what truly matters most - often I fail to live that out, but by God’s grace I can keep trying. I’m so grateful that God never gives up on us. God’s love is unbounded and unending. May this good news offer us hope and shalom this day and in whatever lies ahead - for God is with us in life, in death, and in life after death. We are not alone. May we share this good news near and far.
With gratitude and hope,
Sarah
For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39
Pastor’s Corner – March 20, 2025
“The Lord God put Adam in the garden to till it and keep it.” (Genesis 2:18)
From the beginning God intended that humans would be caretakers of God’s creation. God is the Creator, Sustainer, and Provider and we are blessed to be God’s grateful stewards. This faith perspective that focuses us on using God’s gifts to care for our earthly home, ourselves, and others is beautifully revealed in the life of our Leader, Jesus.
One of the gifts we care for are financial resources. Jesus was clear about the role of stewards with money:
“The Lord God put Adam in the garden to till it and keep it.” (Genesis 2:18)
From the beginning God intended that humans would be caretakers of God’s creation. God is the Creator, Sustainer, and Provider and we are blessed to be God’s grateful stewards. This faith perspective that focuses us on using God’s gifts to care for our earthly home, ourselves, and others is beautifully revealed in the life of our Leader, Jesus.
One of the gifts we care for are financial resources. Jesus was clear about the role of stewards with money: “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap; for the measure you give will be the measure you get back.” (Luke 6:38)
Stewardship is empowered by trust in God. Stewards trust God’s ability to provide for the needs of all, including our own. Our part in that is using our gifts and talents in a spirit of generosity. God loves to give and so should we!
Since our culture so highly values amassing wealth, God’s giving to meet the needs of all has been thwarted. Our society has given the green light to satisfying needs and wants and even rigs the way things work so a few get the most. This undermines fairness and leaves many lacking basic needs. Stewards counter this sin of greed with the Divine spirit of generosity and the work of making the playing field even. Of course, some people with challenges like illness and disabilities need a hand up. Stewards understand we need each other and are glad to do a little extra to provide that hand up knowing the time will come when that care is reciprocated.
Stewards find deep satisfaction and joy in following Jesus with a generous and trusting heart.
Yours in Christ,
Marc
Pastor’s Corner – March 13, 2025
Dear Beloved,
This winter I've been enjoying a gratitude journey with you. A few Sundays ago when chatting with the children, I shared that I am grateful that God designed us to learn. How wonderful it is that we can learn about each other - about neighbors near and far, God's creation, ourselves, and about the nature of God - God's love, God's work in the world, God's grace, God's call on our lives our whole lives long!!!
Dear Beloved,
This winter I've been enjoying a gratitude journey with you. A few Sundays ago when chatting with the children, I shared that I am grateful that God designed us to learn. How wonderful it is that we can learn about each other - about neighbors near and far, God's creation, ourselves, and about the nature of God - God's love, God's work in the world, God's grace, God's call on our lives our whole lives long!!! Learning with and from you are gifts for which I thank God. As we prepare to celebrate the rite of confirmation with the confirmation students and their families and mentors next month on Palm Sunday, I give special thanks for the opportunity to learn with and from these students and the confirmation experience. I would invite you to be keeping these young people in your prayers. In the United Church of Christ (the denomination that Friedens is part of), people can be baptized at any age. In the United Church of Christ, young people have an opportunity to go through the confirmation experience to consider more deeply and intentionally what they believe about God and whether they want to make a commitment to follow the Jesus way and become official members of Friedens United Church of Christ. In this next month as the rite of confirmation approaches for these young people, I’d invite you to reflect upon your understanding of who God is and what it means for you to follow in the Jesus way. Pastor Marc and I are always glad to chat with you and grow with you as we journey together as disciples of Jesus who share his unbounded love, so that all may know they are beloved and so we may all live together in shalom - the beloved community of wholeness and comprehensive well-being. May you feel uplifted and encouraged by the joy and hope of the Creator, the compassion and peace of Jesus, and the comfort and guidance of the Spirit throughout this Lenten season.
With appreciation and hope,
Sarah
Beloved, let us love one another, because love is from God… 1 John 4:7
Pastor’s Corner – March 6, 2025
“The Lord God put Adam in the garden to till it and keep it.” (Genesis 2:18)
From the beginning God intended that humans would be caretakers of God’s creation. God is the Creator, Sustainer, and Provider and we are blessed to be God’s grateful stewards. This faith perspective that focuses us on using God’s gifts to care for our earthly home, ourselves, and others is beautifully revealed in the life of our Leader, Jesus.
“The Lord God put Adam in the garden to till it and keep it.” (Genesis 2:18)
From the beginning God intended that humans would be caretakers of God’s creation. God is the Creator, Sustainer, and Provider and we are blessed to be God’s grateful stewards. This faith perspective that focuses us on using God’s gifts to care for our earthly home, ourselves, and others is beautifully revealed in the life of our Leader, Jesus.
One of the gifts we cherish and use as grateful stewards is time. Jesus looked to lessons in creation to teach about time: “Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not clothed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is bread baking in the oven, will he not much more clothe you?” (Matthew 6:28-30)
Today brings the gift of life. Tomorrow is a mystery. Stewards make the most of today by looking for opportunities to be the caring and kind servants of God we were created to be. This is the source of a truly satisfying and joyful life.
Stewards trust God with tomorrow. Like the wheat whose growth and beauty is transformed into life-nourishing bread that feeds others, so we trust that whatever changes come tomorrow can be used by the Creator for the greater good.
Yours in Christ,
Marc
Pastor’s Corner – February 27, 2025
Dear Beloved,
Even though Lent begins rather late this year, I can’t believe it is almost here! The season of Lent (the forty days, not counting Sundays, from Ash Wednesday through Holy Week that gives us space and time to prepare to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus) is almost here. It begins on Wednesday March 5th. The Lifelong Spiritual Formation Ministry Team invites everyone to stay after the 10:30 a.m. worship (or to come back if you worship at the 8:30 a.m. worship service) the Sunday before Lent for a light lunch and an informal chat about the season of Lent.
Dear Beloved,
Even though Lent begins rather late this year, I can’t believe it is almost here! The season of Lent (the forty days, not counting Sundays, from Ash Wednesday through Holy Week that gives us space and time to prepare to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus) is almost here. It begins on Wednesday March 5th. The Lifelong Spiritual Formation Ministry Team invites everyone to stay after the 10:30 a.m. worship (or to come back if you worship at the 8:30 a.m. worship service) the Sunday before Lent for a light lunch and an informal chat about the season of Lent.
If you’ve had a chance to catch any of my notes this winter, I have been inviting us to take a gratitude journey of prayer and reflection as inspired by Philippians 4:4-7
4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. 5 Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Today I’d like to rejoice in the gift of holidays, seasons of honoring, and seasons of preparation. Epiphany and Dr. Rev. Martin Luther King Jr Day are my favorite winter holidays. I’m also grateful for this coming season of Lent. I’m grateful for Black History Month, Disability Awareness Month, and Women’s History Month. I am grateful for special months set aside to be intentional about learning, growing, remembering, and honoring in order to be mindful and grateful all year around. I would invite you to rejoice with me in all the people and organizations who help us grow – all the people and organizations who share stories and enable us to listen and learn. I rejoice that we as a community have covenants that help us stay focused on and committed to Jesus’ ways of embracing and affirming one another in the splendid diversity in which the Maker of the heavens and the earth designed us. If you’ve been learning something new during this Black History Month, I’d be excited to hear what you’ve learned – it will help me to grow, too. I rejoice in the opportunity to worship and serve with you, to pray and ponder, to cry and laugh, to be still and to sing out. Thank you for being you! You are loved and cherished by your church family and by God.
With appreciation for the journey with you,
Sarah
Pastor’s Corner – February 20, 2025
Did you know that I am not planning to retire when I turn 65 in March? I still feel called to serve as your Senior Pastor. I am still enthusiastic to serve as your Senior Pastor. I remain thankful to have the health and energy to fulfill this role. I feel a sense of responsibility and excitement to continue to do my part to position Friedens UCC for a vital future in an era of declining religious affiliation.
Did you know that I am not planning to retire when I turn 65 in March? I still feel called to serve as your Senior Pastor. I am still enthusiastic to serve as your Senior Pastor. I remain thankful to have the health and energy to fulfill this role. I feel a sense of responsibility and excitement to continue to do my part to position Friedens UCC for a vital future in an era of declining religious affiliation. We have been taking some positive steps forward in that regard, and I believe Christ is at work among us to fulfill a vision for greater impact that will prepare the way for the next chapter of leadership and ministry.
Of course, you also have a responsibility to discern if I should remain as your Senior Pastor for a few more years. I serve at God’s call and at your pleasure. We are congregationally organized. The congregation shares in determining clergy leadership.
I invite your prayerful discernment. If you feel our partnership should continue, then I invite you to join me in a spirit of renewed faith and energy to fulfill the vison Christ is giving us to secure a vital future for Christ’s mission in the community through the disciples and ministries of Friedens Church. If not, you have the freedom and responsibility to speak your truth at a congregational meeting. This is the way our United Church of Christ functions to ensure health and well-being in leadership.
I am grateful for our three decades together and I look forward to our years ahead continuing to work together to share the love of Christ.
Yours in Christ,
Marc