A few
drops of rain were falling as I hastily made my way up the walk of Wethersfield
School in Kewanee. In contrast to the
weather, I was cheerfully greeted by Russ, the former president of the
congregation, as he approached from another direction. The mood inside Moss Gymnasium was likewise
upbeat and positive. Energy filled the
gym as many were busy making last minutes preparations for worship.
The
last time I was with the people of Zion Lutheran Church was the day after the
fire that had done major damage to their building. That evening, with the congregation gathered
in a circle on the church lawn, I promised the prayers of the synod in the face
of uncertain days.
It was
great to return and be with the people of Zion on Sunday, December 9. The school gym was alive with worship—prayer,
Scripture, preaching and song. It
reminded me of the energy of a mission congregation. Santa Lucia even made her appearance on cue!
On
behalf of our bishop and the synod, I was able to present a modest check to the
congregation. It is because of your
generosity that this gift was possible.
Following the service, a number of people spoke to me. The treasurer of the congregation thanked me
for bringing the check. I want to pass
that thanks along to you.
I suppose
I was a bit surprised when almost everyone else who spoke to me thanked me for just
being there and for all of the prayers.
I want to thank you all for that too.
Your willingness to care about your sister congregations is what helps
make this a fine synod.
I think
it would be great if every congregation prayed for the other congregations in
their conference on a rotating basis.
Many already do. I also think it
would be beneficial if each congregation would send visitors to other
congregations just to say “hello.”
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