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| Pastor Theresa's Message |
One of the best things about being on staff here is the long, winding drive that I have each day. Much reflection takes place both in the coming and the going. It offers a pause in my busy day to be reminded of Gods presence once again.
Over the last few weeks I have witnessed life and death in the leaves of trees as they have turned from a vibrant palette of colors and left stark, bare branches. I have witnessed life in the process of dying.
Arent we all like leaves? From the moment of our creation, we are moving toward death.
This summer every shade of green caught my attention. The leaves were at the pinnacle of their existence. Or were they? You see, we so often think that the pinnacle of all life is when its at its best, apparently most fruitful time. However I suggest that we look at the changing and the falling as the height of our existence. For it is in the changing and the falling that we cling evermore to our hope. We cling to the promise that this suffering is not for naught and one day it too will end. We trust that Our Savior and Lord, having caught us before, will catch us again. The height of our existence is not found in ourselves nor the fruit that we produce, rather it is found solely in the One who gave his very life for each of us so that we may live as forgiven children in the Kingdom of God.
In the changing, the falling, the suffering, the little deaths we experience everyday, we are transformed more and more, revealing the image of God for the entire world to see. Just as we pick up the fading, falling leaf, admire its beauty and ponder its life, so does our Creator claim us and admire our beauty, our life, our worth.
Yes, in one way we are moving towards death; we will all physically die one day. But in Christ we are given life...eternal life for this moment and all moments. Whether you are in the time of your life that is brightest green, or brilliant shades of ochre, crimson or gold, or fading, or falling, or being held in the cradle of Gods loving arms...wherever you are in the living/dying process remember you are a beautiful creation of God...worth more than you could ever imagine.
By your very life, people are being reminded of Gods presence in the world. May you always know of Gods great love for you!
Here at Trinity we love guests! You are invited to worship with us anytime. For those of you who are in a time of falling or have a friend or family member that is struggling in some way, please know that on November 30th we will host a Healing Service at 10am in which Christs forgiveness, strength and peace for lifes journey will be extended in a special way. Also, please know that I am available if you need a companion on your lifes journey. Together we will walk faithfully with Our Lord. My office hours are Wednesdays 1-3:30, Thursdays 9-Noon, and other times by appointment.
With sincerity in my heart for you, Gods Child,
Intern Pastor Theresa
106 years of service to the Congregation and Community
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Phone: 715-354-3790
501 E. Chetac Ave/ P.O. Box 8
Birchwood, WI 54817
Parsonage: 715-354-3224
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