Dear Ones
Yesterday, the children of OHPC led the congregation in worship. With masks and capes and great enthusiasm (and a few gentle prompts) the children reminded us that as God’s own, we are all called to be brave.
I couldn’t help but wonder how this lesson would play out in their lives. I give thanks to God for the bravery of their parents and teachers, because raising children is an act that requires both courage and faith.
There are so many ways that I’ve seen bravery from God’s people in my years of ministry. Large acts – like churches using their property for housing to the small acts of bravery I’ve seen while bedside in hospitals and hospice. Every time we move out of our comfort zone to provide justice and mercy we are being brave not just for ourselves, but for all who witness what we do!
Over the next few Sundays, we will have the opportunity to hear the story of some of the first brave followers of God. Abram and Sarai were told to leave everything and everyone and to follow where God would lead them. The promise that came with that charge was that God would be their God, and they would be God’s people. An amazing promise…. but still. Imagine leaving everyone and everything you’ve ever known!
I hope you’ll join us these next few weeks as we learn a bit more about Abram and Sarai (whose names change to Abraham and Sarah to show that even their identity was new!). And, if your own wandering brings you to other places, I encourage you to read the texts for each Sunday and to follow along as you can.
Let’s be brave together!
Blessings –
Pastor Karen