Hello Gloria Dei,
All of us have stories that shape who we are. Every life story is a unique tapestry woven together with times of joy, challenges, trials, and love. I have pictures in my office of my family, but also of the various churches I have served. When I stop and reflect on those pictures of people and places, I begin to remember not just the people, but the stories that go together with those people and places.
At Gloria Dei, we are getting set for another school year of worship, education, service, fellowship, and programming. As we do, our hope is that we all come to see and understand more clearly how God’s story of love and redemption intersects with our own life stories. God’s big story is the foundation of our stories. “In the beginning God created…” Your story begins as one who has been created by God. But it continues throughout life. “Fear not, I am with you.” And it goes on forever. “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him will not perish, but will have eternal life.”
Again this year, as we tell the story of God’s love to all ages, I want to ask you to consider volunteering to help in some way with Church School, Confirmation, or our After School Kids program. Lots of you have already jumped on board, but we are still in need of more who can volunteer to help.
If this is something God is placing on your heart, pray about it, and use this link to let us know of your interest.
You can also call the church office and ask for Lara Kvale or Pastor Sarah to get more information. Teaching the stories told by Jesus and the whole story of God’s love is an all-important part of helping to shape faith for generations to come.
During these final days of summer, I encourage you to think back on your life. Look at the pictures. Be reminded of your life story. And then think of how God’s story of love and redemption has crossed paths and shapes your stories.
For this weekend in worship, please read one of the delightful and meaningful post-resurrection stories as Jesus cooks breakfast on the beach for his disciples. John 21:1-18.
See you in worship,
Pastor Tim
