Dear friends in Christ,
This was an exciting week for me. On Monday 6/22 I celebrated the 18th anniversary of my ordination into the holy ministry. I’ve thought a lot about where I’ve been, those I’ve served; how many sermons I’ve preached, and where God has brought me now. There have been so many blessings, so many good memories. I even discovered I share the date with some other neat Pastors I’ve come to know. Time flies when you’re having fun!
It has been a lot of fun, though as you know, life isn’t always fun. Neither is the ministry. There have been bad days, bad months and bad years; there are bad people and hurt that goes with the good because we’re all sinners. Thankfully, Christ died for sinners – including pastors! Reflecting back on 18 years - God’s presence, His forgiveness & mercy and his answers to prayer have been constant. It wasn’t always visible in the moment, but I can sure see it in the rear-view mirror. We walk by faith, not by sight.
When I was installed at St. John & St. Luke Lutheran churches in Oakdale, CA back in 2008 I was focused on what my first year would look like as the weeks and months passed. I was the new guy in the circuit and district in more ways than one. Those 5, 10, 15-year milestones seemed so far off at the time, but now they’ve passed. Paul’s encouraging words in 1Thessalonians 5:24 comes to mind: the one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it. God’s faithfulness endures through all times. I pray that you see that too, as you look back through time.
It’s been a blessing and a joy to serve the Lord, our Good Shepherd these 18 years, and I pray for many more. It’s been a blessing and a joy to be your Pastor too! God grant us many more years together under the forgiveness and mercy of the cross of Christ!
Blessings on your week!
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