As too often happens, life has interrupted by intended schedule of regular blog posts. This time the delays were caused by a family vacation to Disneyworld, which was followed unexpectedly (and sorrowfully) by the death of a faithful leader in my church. As a result, I was out of the pulpit entirely one week and–the next–found it more appropriate to share reflections that were more suited to the somber mood of the congregation.
In any case, I finally did get around to finishing my 3-week message series (which managed to stretch over about 6 calendar weeks): It Does a Body Good–Healthy Relationships in the Body of Christ and Elsewhere. The closing sermon was: Go Under the Knife: Forgiveness as Spiritual Surgery
I think of one of your sermons everytime trauma starts rearing its ugly head,which it seemed to do non-stop for a while.Then I realized by listening to the teaching that it’s traumatic,but it’s also just LIFE.Compassion and steadfast friendship from our church family has made this last year livable.even blessed in a strange way.It sounds so cliche’ but true that your wife and all those at FBC can make me feel that peace that only the faithful can share.Instead of a woman of constant sorrow(oh brother!),I am a woman with moments of sadness just like anyone in life.I’ve learned the importance of not just talking to God in my head,but making a point of knees bent,head-bowed intentional out loud prayer for others.I guess you’re wondering why the long message?You lead me back to my true faith,practicing and teaching me to be more like Jesus and I thank you so very much.Sincerely with love in our Christ,Sheila