As we welcome the year 2020, I am reminded of the roller coaster of emotions the year 2019 has been -- some of brought a smile to our faces but many were challenging, that have had a toll on our lives -- as individuals and as a church. We lost some beloved members of our community, we gained some. We had some challenging times financially, but we continued to move forward in faith and got some major projects taken care of, to keep our building safe and welcoming. I am grateful to you for your continued support and faithfulness and because of you, I believe we will continue to a beacon of hope on this corner of Broadway and Buckingham and do what God has called us to do.
So, most of us make resolutions at the beginning of the year with a hope to make changes in our lives toward living a better and fuller life. While we make these resolutions, I wanted to share this article titled, “Spiritual Decluttering,” that I found recently, which can help us make resolutions for our spiritual life. I found it very thought-provoking and helpful. I hope it is meaningful to you as well.
Choose worship from a new seat for a season -- it will give us a new perspective -- literally,
Consider finding ways to free up time to volunteer at a local food bank or other mission, to make regular calls to old friends and church members we no longer see, or join a class or small group at church,
Change the version of the Bible you read from, to get a different perspective,
Try a new devotional resource or a new author to read or a new class. Like an unfamiliar Bible translation, it can bring new life to our time with God.
Remove Negativity. Although we do not like to admit it, there are seasons when many of us can fall into patterns of negativity. Removing negativity from our lives and choosing instead to find things to celebrate can lift our spirits and renew our passion for that which matters most, and,
Give up obligatory church stuff -- things that bring us no joy, things that we don’t really want. it. Step away from that obligation and into a new way of using your gifts to serve your church or community. That will be a blessing both to you and your congregation.
2020 can be a year of new experiences for us in the church, in our personal and spiritual lives. Let us allow the Spirit to do a new thing in our lives and in our church family.
Also, remember that I am on vacation, visiting my family in India. Any pastoral emergencies can be sent to Rev. Rick Newbury (312-560-5946). From January 5-17 they may also be directed to Rev. Britt Cox (708-996-0195) or Rev. Gregory Gross (847-989-1656). Any non-emergency needs, may be sent to Broadway’s Chair of Relationship Builders, Kathy Wurster (773-502-9409).
I pray that God will give all of us the strength we need for each day to do the work that we are called to do. And remember, I am always your partner in justice.
