Stories

“Did not our hearts burn within us while he was opening up the scriptures?”

Luke 24:32

            The Bible first and foremost is a book about people and their encounters with God.  From Adam to Abraham and Moses to Jesus, scripture records the narrative of how people came to know and follow the Lord.  Theological reflection always followed something that happened. A voice from a burning bush, the parting of the Red Sea, a babe born in Bethlehem under an unusual star prompted someone to ask the questions, “Why has this happened? What does this mean?  What should we do?  Where is God leading?”

            On Easter Sunday, the risen Christ was making his way to Emmaus when he joined a couple of believers who were feeling discouraged at the news of the crucifixion. Their depression so clouded their vision they did not see Jesus for who he was.  Only after he prayed over broken bread were their eyes opened and their faith reborn.  Afterwards they wondered why they had not recognized him earlier because of the way they felt when he told them the old stories in the scriptures.  There was power in his Word.

            Although the Bible closes the canon with the words, “nothing shall be added and nothing taken away”, God continues to move in and through the lives of believers.  That’s why I so enjoy hearing people’s stories.  God does indeed “work in mysterious ways” and they are often quiet and simple.  Not everyone hears a voice from a burning bush or sees a shining star over a cradle, but every believer has had a moment when God became real. Every believer can describe a significant person, event, or experience that shaped their faith.  That’s why we sing, “This is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all the day long.”

 My faith has always been encouraged as I listen to others share their stories.

That’s why I enjoy meeting with folks in their homes, praying for them in the hospital, or just sharing a few words over a cup of coffee or a meal.  If this is something you’re interested in, please feel free to give me a call to set up some time together.  If you’d rather meet in a small group the Deacons are arranging some fellowship times.  The schedule is found in this newsletter.  This will be an informal time to get to know each other.  During our coffee and conversation I will be sharing a little bit of my faith journey and how I came to be here and what are my hopes and dreams for this congregation. I hope to hear yours as well. There are different times and places so I hope you will make some time to share in the future God intends.  I look forward to getting to know each and every one of you.

In Christ’s service,

Greg