Dear Caldwell,
Psalm 133:1-2 offer language that is among the most tactile in all of scripture:
“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity! It is like precious oil poured on the head, running down on the beard, running down on Aaron’s beard, down on the collar of his robe.”
That is how my family and I have felt in these last days. We have felt your prayers and love as if they were oil running down from our foreheads, bathing us in the scent of your concern and care. Earlier today, when I heard the staff describe the beautiful prayer service you held last Thursday night concurrent with our family’s visitation in Atlanta, I said, “I wish I could have been there.” To which Evie rightly responded, “John, you and your family were there in spirit.” Amen.
I returned home last night to find a stack of cards that had come in the mail, which I will go through slowly and carefully, in addition to those in my office mailbox. How amazing, as so many of you have your own life complications, to receive so many personal notes and best wishes. Meanwhile, the staff has been doing great work, from loading new office software to leading worship, music, coordinating upcoming events, visiting the sick and home bound and more. Your lay leadership has been equally impressive in what it has done to advance our ministry (wait until you see the progress in the Belk Kitchen!). The simple words, “Thank you,” are inadeuate but you will hear me say them over and over again on behalf of our entire family.
There is indeed much going on at our busy little church – two committees meet just tonight to plan work for 2015. I do hope you will make time to be in worship Sunday to hear a very special guest preacher and sage, Rev. Dr. Edward Newberry, the ‘dean’ of local Presbyterian pastors, as he tells us more about the post-slavery era in African-American churches in Mecklenburg. He is a dear friend and mentor. (See the story in Friday’s CTW). This is another important element of our efforts to be “disciples” of race and class, together.
Then, next week, we host the first of seven Lenten worship services on Wednesdays at noon, followed by lunch. That is only scratching the surface of the activity in God’s name.
Some had asked to read the meditation I offered at my mother’s funeral service (my family’s choice, not mine). It is available here.
How “good and pleasant” it is to be back in your midst. See you soon. I am
Yours in Christ,
John