As I have been sorting, organizing, cleaning and packing for our move next week, I have come across so many items that have caused me to pause, remember and give praise and thanks. Today, I want to share a few of those as they pertain to my Christian walk.
- My first Holy Bible was from Grace United Methodist Church of Logan Square, Chicago. I received it when I first attended Sunday School the fall of my 3rd grade in school. That Sunday was also my first day in worship – ever! I remember holding the Bible in my hands and I couldn’t contain my smile – I was so happy!
- A red cardinal music box from Carol Berg. Carol was the downstairs neighbor who walked my sister and me to Sunday School and worship until she physically could not. She was a woman who committed herself to two little girls for over 10 years. She loved Jesus and wanted to share that love with us. Carol made sure I knew Christ.
- My confirmation workbook – I know, I can’t believe I saved it either! It was during confirmation experience that I felt God’s call in my life to serve. I remember sitting in class and talking with Pastor Bill Kuntz. He was a gentle leader, always encouraging me to go deeper and wider in my understanding of God.
- My books from seminary. As I held some of these texts, I reflected on how God opened my mind to a whole new world of teaching, preaching, serving and pastoral care. Those books remind me of another fond memory as it was at seminary that I met my wonderful husband, Joel.
- Lastly, my ordination stole. This stole was a tangible reminder of my call and my response. I have continued to say “Yes, Lord.” It has not always been easy – trying to balance parenting, care-taking, and other life events. It has been a blessing: teaching, preaching, leading, and serving.
As I walked down memory lane, I thought about relationships, invitations, love, and service. I also kept thinking about the hymn, “Count Your Many Blessings.” I offer the refrain as a prayer of thanksgiving and praise:
When upon life's billows you are tempest tossed,
Count your blessings, name them one by one;
Count your blessings, see what God hath done;
Count your blessings, name them one by one;
Count your many blessings, see what God hath done. Amen.