Blessed

“Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
(Matthew 6:21, CEB)

Normally, I utilize this space in our monthly newsletter to share a noteworthy tidbit that relates to our near-term future as a local church congregation, while providing both Scriptural and theological background behind its significance in our church life.  For this month, however, I would like to reference more our near-term past … October 16 to be exact.  On that date, many within our congregation witnessed a rare event indeed … me virtually speechless (this does not happen to preachers very often, trust me).  I was brought to my verbal knees, so to speak, as a result of the outpouring of love and support that was demonstrated to me at the end of that Sunday’s worship service.  And so, admittedly departing from my typical focus, I would like to use this newsletter space to relate a more personal message—one that I hope is also grounded in both Scripture and our understanding of God, but also one that expresses just how grateful both Rochelle and I are for God’s placement of us here at Marble, and for who you are as its congregation.    

Let me begin by saying “Thank you” for all your gifts presented to us.  The personalized sculpture box is beautiful, and its reminder of just who we can place all our trust in to guide us through whatever may come our way will always be where we can view it often.  And its contents of individual gift cards are an amazing display of thoughtfulness and how much you really pay attention to some of our favorite things. I say “amazing” because I cannot remember ever letting on to many of these favorite places … yet you capture so many.  Of course, I guess I should not be at all surprised about Starbucks being among those captured. Even the Oats ‘n Honey bars and eclectic array of candles and music show how much you know us.  For every single card and gift, please accept our heartfelt thanks.

But even more, thank you for receiving Rochelle and I as part of this church family and as partners in Christ.  To be together with all of you, in this place and in this time, conjures so many feelings of excitement and anticipation as we strive together to hear, understand, and pursue God’s call for us as a vital and thriving part of Christ’s Church.  To be honest, I do not really know the details of exactly where we are going, but I do know that the journey there will be life-giving and powerful.  What a blessing to be on this journey, here in Milan, and here at Marble, with all of you.  Thank you for sharing this journey with us.  Most of all, thank you for sharing your hearts with us … for sharing your dreams with us … for including us in your lives … and for making us a part of your future in Christ.  What a treasure!  And so, may you and those important to you experience always the abundant treasure of Christ in your lives.

Blessings … Pastor Bob