Dear Caldwell,
Now that I think about it, it’s ironic. When we commit someone’s remains for burial we say the familiar words from scripture, “ashes to ashes, dust to dust.” There is important truth to that. In this earthly realm, all is temporary. Still, perhaps a better thing to say would be, “from God, to God.” That is equally true, isn’t it?
Yesterday (Thursday) was Ascension Day on the church calendar, a day when we recall the story of Christ’s final ascension. Christ came from God and to God he returned. On Sunday, we will explore the often-overlooked role and place of the ascension in our understanding of God in Christ. We will also celebrate communion and receive new members. If you have been walking with us at Caldwell and considering joining, what better time than this?
In Sunday school, we will conclude our study of the Belhar Confession from apartheid South Africa in the 1980s by looking at its last “article.” It’s been a rich study and we will spend most of our time Sunday considering this question: If the church is called to make an important statement of faith any time the Gospel is at stake in the world, what issues in today’s world might compel us to write our own confession and promote its adoption by our denomination?
Sunday is big for another reason – our chance to celebrate two deeply loved servant leaders, Mary Carol and George Michie. An RSVP celebration will be held at neighboring St. John’s Baptist, starting at 1.
Hmmmm….. On the same day we consider Christ’s ascension, we “lift up” the Michies as they prepare to move to the mountains. Coincidence? Wow, I always knew they were shining examples of discipleship. 🙂 See you Sunday.
In Christ,
John