Dear Beloved,

Have you had any songs in your spirit this week? I have had many lately – maybe inspired by the fun opportunity that Kristin and the music ministry team are sharing with us. I’ve never been part of any bracket experiences before, but I am looking forward to this one. Hope you can participate and enjoy! (Read about Hymn Mania in "Staying Connected" for more details)

There are two songs that are both energizing and calming my soul at the same time today. The first is, “In the Bulb there is a Flower” from our Chalice Hymnal. The second is a song that says, “I will worship you in the waiting.” I really thought that I’d be able to find all the lyrics to share with you, but I haven’t figured them out yet. I know that was a song that I enjoyed in my college days and then would hear in the YMCA locker room as a young adult when I felt like I was waiting on a lot. I suppose that the phrase “worship in the waiting” has carried me through many years now. Sometimes when waiting on a diagnosis for oneself or a loved one, waiting can be very scary, and you are in my prayers right now and in the days to come. I believe God is with us in very deep ways in those times. At the same time, what has been on my mind this week is the waiting of certain seasons – those times when we feel God’s Spirit working and doing things not yet seen. 

I am grateful for all the people who are witnesses of worshipping in the waiting, for all the people who pray with us and for us in times of waiting and uncertainty, and for the Spirit who is moving and growing deep beneath the dirt and dust…. If you are in a particular season of waiting for something that feels fearful, you are not alone. God is with you. If you are waiting for something joyful, you are not alone. God is with you. If you are waiting on something extremely uncertain, you are not alone. God is with you. If you aren’t in a season of waiting, you are not alone. God is with us, and by God’s grace and strength we are part of communities of care. Please feel free to reach out. You are appreciated and cared for you. You are a loved and loving child of God! Grateful to be serving, worshipping, waiting, singing, listening, praying, learning, growing, and connecting with you. 

“My soul waits in hope for the Lord more than a watchperson for the morning. Yes, more than a watchperson for the morning….” 

Psalm 130:6