I think what is most impressive to me about the service is that it is purely about proclamation. We go to Pioneer Village with all of the work it entails to Proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ in  a new way. Sometimes when we are in the same worship space every week we get a little complacent which is quite natural. Some of us may tend to forget that we are part of the community and are called to share the Gospel with the members of the community. The Gospel is not ours to keep at First. We are called to share it with the world. The service  at Pioneer Village reminds me of that fact. When I see so many people from different congregations and communities I realize that the Good News in Jesus Christ is truly for all of us. All of us not some of us. How great it is to know that God’s love is for all no exceptions. Thank you members of First for your support in making the C&W service such as success and powerful witness to our commmunty.

Oh it all works out as after a couple of weeks the schedule starts to feel normal. The exercise is easier to make time for and the many responsibilities of ministry start to fall into place. I find that there is always one constant that helps me to fully embrace my calling here at 1st and that is my prayer time. When I am on vacation my prayer time varies according to what we are doing that day. When I am back at work my prayer time becomes an anchor that starts off my day and points me toward the future. I guess you could say that Jesus “Takes the wheel” in a sense and helps me to refocus, re-energize and re-enter his wonderful call to me – serving the people of this treasured church.

When I reflect on all of this I am reminded of the Gospel of Mark. I am always struck by how quickly Jesus goes from one place to another. How quickly he moves from healing, to speaking, to praying, and finally to his death. Jesus life changes rapidly as he seeks to bring the Gospel to those around him. He is in constant motion and lets nothing stop him or slow him down. I think there is a great message for us here. Jesus embraces change. He uses the changing circumstances of his life to teach us that while change is always with us and life is often uncertain. The presence of God in Christ Jesus is constantly and consistently with us. Many things may swirl around in our lives but the word of God in Jesus is true and solid. His word endures through it all. We can claim that everyday and count on it in all seasons of life.

Transitions are difficult. I and many others will miss Pastor Mike a great deal. He has shared many special and unique gifts with American Lutheran and the larger community. Mike is a dear friend and I would rather he stay in Worthington. I have enjoyed the many hours we have spent together. He is funny, intelligent and Christ-centered. His leaving will take me sometime to get over but I know that the choice he is making will be a blessing to those many people he will encounter in his new profession. He will always carry the loving message of Jesus Christ in his heart. I am grateful for his many years here and I am confident that God will do something exciting and new with American Lutheran. I believe as I am sure many of you do that God will provide what American needs. I wish Pastor Mike God’s peace and blessing in the days, weeks and months ahead.