How and when do we move on? That question is on my mind in light of one of this week’s scripture readings, two recent memorial services, and an increasingly obvious transition happening in our church. One at a time…
In the Old Testament lesson from 2 Kings 2 which documents the prophet Elijah being taken up to heaven in a chariot of fire (cue movie music), there is the matter of his successor Elisha’s response to this ‘elevation’ of his mentor. As you will hear on Sunday, Elisha is assured of his standing as God’s prophet when he inherits the mantle (cloak) of the great Elijah. He tests its power out by parting the Jordan River with the mantle as Elijah had just done before his assumption: it worked! In a few short verses we see Elisha lamenting the absence of his master and then assuming his role as Elijah’s rightful successor. The rapid transition from grief to “getting on with it” reminds me of the behavior of the disciples of Jesus upon his ascension (40 days after his resurrection). They go from seeing him off to being continuously in the temple praising God. (Luke 24:53) It seems that in both cases, God is doing a new thing and the time to board the train is now!
Last week two memorial services were held at the church: Friday morning we remembered the life of Gwen Layman, who had died the previous Sunday morning. The grief of her recent death tinged even our best efforts to celebrate her life. Then, 24 hours later, we remembered the life of Mary Wedegaertner who died in August of 2020, a full-on church service being postponed due to COVID-19 concerns. Even though it had been 22 months, there was nevertheless a real sense of loss amongst the overarching appreciation of her life, well-lived. Given the time and effort invested in preparation for Mary’s service, it was inspiring how many long-time members and previous participants at Holy Cross came to celebrate her life and witness.
While at our Annual Conference Session recently in Sacramento, both Pastor Tevita Vaikona and I were reappointed to serve at Holy Cross for the coming appointment year (July 1, 2022 – June 30, 2023). This shared responsibility, coupled with the significant growth in the Islander community in our region should give us a clear indication of how our congregation is trending. I want to share that I consider myself extremely blessed when—at this past Sunday’s afternoon service—somewhere around 40 children and youth sang, danced, and blessed the fathers in attendance before serving a feast to all of us. Somewhere between 25 and 30 Islanders will be joining a few of us non-Islanders at Redwood Christian Ashram the first full week of July.
The trend is clear, but it should never be exclusive of anyone or any group. My biggest aim for the coming year is to help us come together around efforts and ministry goals uniting Islander and Pelangi (non-Islander). Forging a future where we walk hand-in-hand will ensure our long-term health as a family of faith. I welcome your ideas for such events and efforts that can help us serve Christ in just such a unified way.
Yours for Christ,
Pastor Gary
