Dear Friends,
With our nearly perfect weather this spring, I have been thinking a lot about moderation.
Moderation! Those of us who love a temperate climate are in Wonderland this month of July. The weather has been perfect day after day, with temperatures in the 70's and cool, light breezes. Temperatures at night make sleeping a deep pleasure.
Moderation! Those of us who enjoy good food and drink can make health decisions based on what’s best for the good nutrition of our bodies, though the temptations of excess taunt us daily.
Moderation! Those of us who can see two sides of a hotly debated issue are called upon to sort out reality from fiction, truth from exaggeration, and bring order out of chaos, reason out of nonsense, and reconciliation out of conflict.
Moderation! Those of us who call ourselves followers of Jesus understand that Jesus was a radical reformer and transformer who turned the accepted beliefs and practices of his day upside down. He welcomed the stranger and alien. He shared his bread with sinners, and gave water to thirsty outsiders. He healed the most despised and unwanted. He called upon the most unlikely to carry on his mission. Radical extremes today, whether on the right or the left, are mostly destructive. Following Jesus no longer requires us to alienate the world with extreme rhetoric and violent action. Following Jesus means being accepting, welcoming, forgiving, and loving to the least and the lost. Our mission is to bring the good News of God’s grace and love to all we come in contact with, sympathizer or enemy.
Moderation! We already have Jesus Way. He put himself in harm’s way and did the work for us. Our mission is not to define our faith and beliefs in such a way as to keep others out of the church. Our mission is Jesus Way – to open our doors, and open our hearts, and open our minds to all who pass us by.
Moderation! Sue, Jessie and I intend to have a little time away, to enjoy another temperate climate, some family time, and renewal. We trust that your summer brings you good things also. Enjoy the gift of God’s creation! Enjoy the gift of God’s mercy and grace! Enjoy all God’s gifts in moderation!
May God continue to bless you richly as you enjoy this season of renewal!
Peace,
Pastor Ron |
Howland United Methodist Church