I used to think about annual congregational meetings like a political assembly. People arguing about dollars and cents or colors for carpets (not an annual meeting topic) or about things that in the long run do not matter at all. But, over the years I have seen how good it can be to have meetings that are respectful and caring with the people being of one mind and heart and moving in the same direction…. even if they do not agree on how to get there. As in our council meetings at JOY, we vote and then we work together to reach the goal set out. If we have been working together during the year, the meeting just reinforces the goals and direction of the congregation. How is this a spiritual thought? Easy… We work together for the good of God’s kingdom. We all keep our eyes on Jesus the Savior. We remember God’s infinite love and grace and we see all others as God’s children. This is not just about meetings, but about the way we conduct our lives. Jesus Others Yourself is the name of this congregation. May God help us to live that way too! Read Ephesians 4:1-16 and remember: God loves YOU unconditionally.
Pastor Ed