Caldwell, this is a special week. For the first time in a long time, many of us will gather with family and friends to spend time eating, drinking, and giving thanks to God for our blessings. The past twenty months have been challenging on many levels – but we are still here. Despite the world’s attempts to steal our joy, douse our hope, and break our spirits, we are still here. We are still a community, and there is still hope for the future.
Centuries before the birth of Christ, when God’s people lived in exile, scattered all over the Roman world, Jeremiah penned a powerful promise from God: “For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11) Caldwell, let us lay claim to the hope that God promised them and live each day with bold faith that God still keeps Her promises. Thanks be to God for a future with hope.
We are grateful for the good time that was had by all who attended the one day retreat at Reedy Creek Park last Saturday. It was chilly outside, but the camaraderie was heart-warming. The food was nutritious for our bodies and the time together was delicious for our souls. Thank you to the retreat planning team – Jeff Best, Cynthia Hancock, Yara Quezada, and Henry Trexler – all valiantly led by Max and Janelle Carroll.
Tonight, MeckMin will offer its annual Community-Wide Interfaith Thanksgiving Service at 7 pm. If you want to join with others to celebrate life’s bountiful gifts, it is not too late to click here to register for this virtual gathering. Jennifer Roberts described the service as an opportunity for us “to regain hope and faith in the love that binds us together, even across differences.” Thank you, Jennifer, for wording it so beautifully.
Even with our grateful hearts, we all know that the holidays include moments of stress and worry, concern and discomfort for all of us. The co-chairs of Caldwell’s Congregational Care Committee gathered a few resources that they hope will help you cope with those stresses and worries. Click here to read their letter and explore the offerings they’ve compiled. Thank you, Doreen Byrd and Abong Fankam.
Next Tuesday, November 30th, at 7 pm, you are invited to join Pat Adams and me for a contemplative introduction to Advent – which begins this coming Sunday.* We will consider ways to keep our hearts and minds focused on the real reason for this Advent season. Pat has written a meditation and journaling guide to the Advent season that will be available on the table at the back of the sanctuary. It will also be available as a download – look for the link in Caldwell this Week on Friday. Please contact Pat at patsadams@gmail.com if you have any questions. Grab a journal and a pen, and plan to join us at 7 pm on November 30th, by clicking here. Thank you in advance, Pat, for this offering.
Because you tell me your stories, Caldwell, I know that you are navigating through “many dangers, toils, and snares.” Nevertheless, you also live, breathe, and move through this life with grateful hearts – because you know that God is with you every moment of every day, pouring Her amazing grace all over you all the time.
With my heart full of gratitude for the opportunity God has granted me to walk alongside you on your life journey, I offer you this blessing: May the love of our Wildly Creative God, the grace of our Ever-present Lord Jesus, and the communion of the Sweet Spirit of God fill your grateful heart to overflowing – this week, next week, and forevermore.
Your sister and your friend, Gail
* Yes, you read that right; Advent begins this coming Sunday, November 28th. Look for details about our Advent theme and Advent events in the coming days. Get ready, Caldwell, for the world is about to turn.