Hebrews 13:1-2 says, "Keep on loving each other as brothers and sisters. Don't forget to show hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it." I have always been intrigued by this text. To think that heavenly beings would mingle among us sparks a number of possibilities in our imagination. Perhaps the writer of Hebrews is remembering the encounter Abraham and Sarah had with the messengers of God Abraham welcomed to dine with him, who later shared the news that he and Sarah would have a son in their old age. His invitation had made welcome these strangers.
William Barclay writes, "Christianity was, and still should be, the religion of the open door." In a time when the talk of walls and other means of exclusion seem to dominate our conversations, we would do well to remember Barclay's words and these of the writer of Hebrews. God's persistent love isn't defeated by the barriers we often erect in our own lives. "While we were yet sinners," Paul writes, "Christ died for us." It would seem that the welcoming arms of God, made manifest in the incarnate Christ, should serve to remind us of the need and value of every human heart.
Perhaps the words of this text from Hebrews 13 call us to view our world with different eyes, to look for God in the stranger who comes among us. We have been blessed this week to welcome "strangers" who have come among us. Our hypothermia guests have found shelter, nourishment, and rest within the walls of our church building. In their uncertain world, we and other churches are providing a haven of welcome...hospitality in an often inhospitable world. If we are to believe the words of Jesus, when offering this hospitality to strangers, we are truly offering it to him. In the context of judgment in Matthew 25, Jesus says the King will welcome those who have welcomed and cared for persons whose lives have been shaken by the burdens and hardships of life. "I tell you the truth," the King says, "when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me."
I believe I have seen and heard Christ during this week of hypothermia at Westwood, finding him in the faces and stories of these "strangers" we have welcomed among us. In honoring the word of Christ by opening our doors and hearts, we have welcomed God among us, seeing the Divine as strangers have become friends. Christianity is, as Barclay asserts, "the religion of the open door." May we continue to hold open that door for all who come.
I look forward to welcoming you and sharing from God's word as we gather for worship this Sunday. I will be preaching from Micah 6:1-8 on the topic, "A Simple Prescription." Take a moment to read this powerful text and come expectantly as we worship together this Sunday, and yes, why not invite someone to join you.
Jim Abernathy
Friday, January 27, 2017
Friday, January 20, 2017
How Do We Move Forward?
Donald Trump will be sworn in as our nation's 45th president on Friday. Some question the legitimacy of his presidency. Some will march over the weekend to protest his policies. Some will celebrate his inauguration, believing that he is the right person for the job. Regardless of one's perspective, it seems our nation is clearly divided, and that will most likely not change any time soon.
The issues and personalities that have given platform and voice to this division have not suddenly arisen. Certainly there have been wide variances of perspective and political practice in our nation's history, producing contentious division that lasted well beyond inauguration day. I don't remember a time, however, when this contention has so permeated the conversations, friendships, and ongoing relationships of neighbors, co-workers, and family members. Passions run high on both sides of this political divide, creating among other things, a lack of respect for those whose opinions differ from our own. The challenge before us as a nation then, seems to be, "How do we move forward?".
Considering the enormity of the challenge, perhaps we find encouragement not in the task of transforming an entire nation, but recognizing our role in making a difference right where we live. That, I believe begins with respect and prayer. The apostle Paul, writing in I Timothy 2, says, "The first thing I want you to do is pray. Pray every way you know how for everyone you know. Pray especially for rulers and their governments to rule well so we can be quietly about our business of living simply, in humble contemplation. This is the way our Savior God wants us to live." (I Timothy 2:1-3, The Message) Paul doesn't mention being in agreement with these people we are to pray for, even rulers. He does, however, communicate something that I believe has particular relevance for us today as we think about those who lead our nation. Again, he writes, "Pray especially for rulers and their governments to rule well..." I would hope that those elected to these vital tasks of governance, would want what young Solomon asked for when given the opportunity to claim any gift for himself as he began his rule. In I Kings 3, the Lord comes to him in a dream to ask what gift he might want to rule over his people. He could have claimed great wealth, but he did not. He could have claimed great influence, but he did not. He could have asked for mighty military power, but he did not. He said, "Give your servant therefore an understanding mind to govern your people."
Wisdom is a gift of God that moves human hearts and minds to meaningful action. Through two administrations during my tenure at Westwood, I have publicly prayed for the leaders of our nation, asking God to give wisdom for the enormous responsibilities they carry in seeking to govern. I will continue to do so as a new administration begins and I encourage you to do the same. Regardless of your perspective, party affiliation, or particular ideology, I ask that we be faithful in obedience to God's word, faithful in respecting others even when we disagree, and faithful in prayer for each other and for the leaders of our nation. To do so doesn't mean your voice must be silent when you disagree, nor does it mean that you must follow in lock-step conformity without thinking and making decisions on your own. It does, however, mean that in uncertain times, your will trust God to be at work, even through the flawed exercise of human government.
"Pray every way you know how for everyone you know. Pray especially for rulers and their governments to rule well..." Amen.
Jim Abernathy
The issues and personalities that have given platform and voice to this division have not suddenly arisen. Certainly there have been wide variances of perspective and political practice in our nation's history, producing contentious division that lasted well beyond inauguration day. I don't remember a time, however, when this contention has so permeated the conversations, friendships, and ongoing relationships of neighbors, co-workers, and family members. Passions run high on both sides of this political divide, creating among other things, a lack of respect for those whose opinions differ from our own. The challenge before us as a nation then, seems to be, "How do we move forward?".
Considering the enormity of the challenge, perhaps we find encouragement not in the task of transforming an entire nation, but recognizing our role in making a difference right where we live. That, I believe begins with respect and prayer. The apostle Paul, writing in I Timothy 2, says, "The first thing I want you to do is pray. Pray every way you know how for everyone you know. Pray especially for rulers and their governments to rule well so we can be quietly about our business of living simply, in humble contemplation. This is the way our Savior God wants us to live." (I Timothy 2:1-3, The Message) Paul doesn't mention being in agreement with these people we are to pray for, even rulers. He does, however, communicate something that I believe has particular relevance for us today as we think about those who lead our nation. Again, he writes, "Pray especially for rulers and their governments to rule well..." I would hope that those elected to these vital tasks of governance, would want what young Solomon asked for when given the opportunity to claim any gift for himself as he began his rule. In I Kings 3, the Lord comes to him in a dream to ask what gift he might want to rule over his people. He could have claimed great wealth, but he did not. He could have claimed great influence, but he did not. He could have asked for mighty military power, but he did not. He said, "Give your servant therefore an understanding mind to govern your people."
Wisdom is a gift of God that moves human hearts and minds to meaningful action. Through two administrations during my tenure at Westwood, I have publicly prayed for the leaders of our nation, asking God to give wisdom for the enormous responsibilities they carry in seeking to govern. I will continue to do so as a new administration begins and I encourage you to do the same. Regardless of your perspective, party affiliation, or particular ideology, I ask that we be faithful in obedience to God's word, faithful in respecting others even when we disagree, and faithful in prayer for each other and for the leaders of our nation. To do so doesn't mean your voice must be silent when you disagree, nor does it mean that you must follow in lock-step conformity without thinking and making decisions on your own. It does, however, mean that in uncertain times, your will trust God to be at work, even through the flawed exercise of human government.
"Pray every way you know how for everyone you know. Pray especially for rulers and their governments to rule well..." Amen.
Jim Abernathy
Friday, January 13, 2017
What Is Truth?
In the interaction between Pilate and Jesus in those last moments before Jesus was condemned to die, Jesus told Pilate that he came into the world to testify to the truth. "All who love the truth recognize that what I say is true," Jesus said. Then Pilate asked the question that was left unanswered; "What is truth?" In an ever changing world, that question is often yet unanswered.
Throughout the recent presidential campaign, much was made about the role of truth and integrity. Neither candidate fared well when pollsters asked voters about the subject of trustworthiness. Indeed, some comparisons focused less on leadership or substantive issues, settling instead on who seemed to lie the least. The question of truth has often factored into presidential politics, as candidates, or their representatives, rearrange facts to suit their own needs. This wink and a nod approach to truth has at times been treated as an acceptable part of the political process, prompting again the age old question, "what is truth?".
This week, one of the president-elect's advisors, when asked about something questionable he had said, encouraged people to focus less on his words and more on his heart. Does her suggestion imply that words and their meanings have little significance in the context of truth? I don't understand how they can be separated, for integrity begins within and finds its authentic expression in words and action. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus spoke of the significance of this correlation between heart and the spoken word when he said, "Let your yes be yes, and your no, no," or put another way, simply tell the truth.
Pilate seemed to look for a way to escape the impossible situation thrust upon him. He found no guilt in Jesus and wanted to release him, but the pressure of the crowd overshadowed the question of truth, and he gave in to the expedient instead of following the truth.
Scripture tells us that Jesus could see into the human heart...not so easy, however, for you and me. Words therefore are important, regardless of one's position in this world. For the follower of Jesus Christ, they are to bear evidence to the authenticity of the heart. Truth does matter, in heart and in word.
Today and every day, let us be mindful of the words of Jesus; "You will know the truth and the truth will set you free." Amen and Amen!
Jim Abernathy
Throughout the recent presidential campaign, much was made about the role of truth and integrity. Neither candidate fared well when pollsters asked voters about the subject of trustworthiness. Indeed, some comparisons focused less on leadership or substantive issues, settling instead on who seemed to lie the least. The question of truth has often factored into presidential politics, as candidates, or their representatives, rearrange facts to suit their own needs. This wink and a nod approach to truth has at times been treated as an acceptable part of the political process, prompting again the age old question, "what is truth?".
This week, one of the president-elect's advisors, when asked about something questionable he had said, encouraged people to focus less on his words and more on his heart. Does her suggestion imply that words and their meanings have little significance in the context of truth? I don't understand how they can be separated, for integrity begins within and finds its authentic expression in words and action. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus spoke of the significance of this correlation between heart and the spoken word when he said, "Let your yes be yes, and your no, no," or put another way, simply tell the truth.
Pilate seemed to look for a way to escape the impossible situation thrust upon him. He found no guilt in Jesus and wanted to release him, but the pressure of the crowd overshadowed the question of truth, and he gave in to the expedient instead of following the truth.
Scripture tells us that Jesus could see into the human heart...not so easy, however, for you and me. Words therefore are important, regardless of one's position in this world. For the follower of Jesus Christ, they are to bear evidence to the authenticity of the heart. Truth does matter, in heart and in word.
Today and every day, let us be mindful of the words of Jesus; "You will know the truth and the truth will set you free." Amen and Amen!
Jim Abernathy
Wednesday, November 9, 2016
The Day After
So, what happens now? Millions of Americans are waking up to this question in the aftermath of Donald Trump's victory last night. For his supporters, this question may refer to the prioritization of promised action Mr. Trump touted on the campaign trail, and how those promises will now become reality. For those who did not support him, this question assumes a level of change that frightens many who wonder how this anticipated change will affect them and a variety of groups targeted in the rhetoric of the campaign. Political and media pundits are left scratching their heads about what Mr. Trump's victory means for future elections when their polling data suggested a much different outcome. And a nation ponders a way forward in the midst of obvious division that will most likely not be soon healed.
We have arrived at this moment, I believe in part, because hyperbole has overshadowed common sense and decency. I understand that many believe their voices and concerns have been ignored for too long. I understand the frustration with political gridlock that has stalled meaningful legislative initiatives for years. I understand that the integrity of institutions generally trusted over the years from established media outlets, to government, law enforcement agencies, and the financial industry has greatly eroded. But the finger-pointing, name calling, and lack of accountability across a wide spectrum of political, social, and religious boundaries has fueled a level of discontent that I don't believe will be soon assuaged. Both major candidates talked in apocalyptic terms of what would happen if the other was elected, and though strong rhetoric has always marked such exchanges, the level of threat and utter disrespect for the other side has left many on this morning after to wonder how we can move forward with hope. There are indeed lessons to be learned for us all in this arena of free speech as we think about the power of words carelessly and expediently used.
So, what happens now? I mentioned to our deacons this past Sunday morning, in the context of growing uncertainty, that we have a very real opportunity to be salt and light in Jesus' name. No, I wasn't speaking to political expression that uses religion for political gain. We have seen too much of that. I was speaking about taking seriously the teachings of Jesus that impact individual lives and relationships, a narrowing of focus if you will, that heightens personal integrity and accountability as Christ-followers actually try to follow His way. That is a starting place for relationship and conversation where others see the qualities of love, grace, mercy, kindness, and integrity lived out in simple word and action every day. That is not a mandate of political expression but a personal choice to walk in the Christ way.
Maybe, in adversity and divided interests, Jesus' call is enough for the living of these days..."follow me."
Jim Abernathy
We have arrived at this moment, I believe in part, because hyperbole has overshadowed common sense and decency. I understand that many believe their voices and concerns have been ignored for too long. I understand the frustration with political gridlock that has stalled meaningful legislative initiatives for years. I understand that the integrity of institutions generally trusted over the years from established media outlets, to government, law enforcement agencies, and the financial industry has greatly eroded. But the finger-pointing, name calling, and lack of accountability across a wide spectrum of political, social, and religious boundaries has fueled a level of discontent that I don't believe will be soon assuaged. Both major candidates talked in apocalyptic terms of what would happen if the other was elected, and though strong rhetoric has always marked such exchanges, the level of threat and utter disrespect for the other side has left many on this morning after to wonder how we can move forward with hope. There are indeed lessons to be learned for us all in this arena of free speech as we think about the power of words carelessly and expediently used.
So, what happens now? I mentioned to our deacons this past Sunday morning, in the context of growing uncertainty, that we have a very real opportunity to be salt and light in Jesus' name. No, I wasn't speaking to political expression that uses religion for political gain. We have seen too much of that. I was speaking about taking seriously the teachings of Jesus that impact individual lives and relationships, a narrowing of focus if you will, that heightens personal integrity and accountability as Christ-followers actually try to follow His way. That is a starting place for relationship and conversation where others see the qualities of love, grace, mercy, kindness, and integrity lived out in simple word and action every day. That is not a mandate of political expression but a personal choice to walk in the Christ way.
Maybe, in adversity and divided interests, Jesus' call is enough for the living of these days..."follow me."
Jim Abernathy
Friday, November 4, 2016
Rejoice in the Lord Always
"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:4-7)
The admonition of Holy Scripture to find joy in the midst of life's challenges is an encouragement often sought in trying times. Sometimes we read these verses as a prescription that when applied, can positively impact the circumstances we face. As surely as there is a desired correlation between medication taken and the cure that is sought, so too is there a connection between faith and the application of biblical truth, and the ability to move forward with hope in trying times.
In Paul's words from Philippians 4, the key to this joy and peace is found in four simple words; "The Lord is near." I find those four words to be some of the most comforting, encouraging words in all of scripture. They are not a miracle prescription offering the assurance that everything will work out as I desire. Faith, you see, does not exist as a conduit to personal desire or self-gratification. Though we sometimes use the scriptures selectively to affirm our own interests and desired outcomes, they remind us again and again that God's interest is broader than one single heart, community of believers, or even nation. Therefore, the presence of God empowers joyful, hopeful living in uncertain circumstances because, as Paul writes, this peace which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
There are certainly days when I wish that presence included a reset button to simply wipe clear my mistakes and the continuing threats and confusion of the world around me. God's presence, however, offers something that in the long run, makes a greater difference, for in God's grace and mercy, I learn to walk by faith, forgiven and strengthened to take yet another step in any circumstance. Later in this 4th chapter, Paul speaks of contentment in every circumstance. This isn't the complacency of a man worn down by life's experiences, but rather the assurance that in and by God's presence, he can do all things.
In these uncertain times, this assurance can empower our steps, and yes, even bring joy. Remember that as your day unfolds. Remember that as you lie down to rest tonight. Remember that when you cast your vote on Tuesday, and when you awaken next Wednesday.
Don't forget to turn your clocks back an hour before you go to bed Saturday night, and plan to join us for the celebration of communion in worship on Sunday morning.
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice.
Jim Abernathy
The admonition of Holy Scripture to find joy in the midst of life's challenges is an encouragement often sought in trying times. Sometimes we read these verses as a prescription that when applied, can positively impact the circumstances we face. As surely as there is a desired correlation between medication taken and the cure that is sought, so too is there a connection between faith and the application of biblical truth, and the ability to move forward with hope in trying times.
In Paul's words from Philippians 4, the key to this joy and peace is found in four simple words; "The Lord is near." I find those four words to be some of the most comforting, encouraging words in all of scripture. They are not a miracle prescription offering the assurance that everything will work out as I desire. Faith, you see, does not exist as a conduit to personal desire or self-gratification. Though we sometimes use the scriptures selectively to affirm our own interests and desired outcomes, they remind us again and again that God's interest is broader than one single heart, community of believers, or even nation. Therefore, the presence of God empowers joyful, hopeful living in uncertain circumstances because, as Paul writes, this peace which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
There are certainly days when I wish that presence included a reset button to simply wipe clear my mistakes and the continuing threats and confusion of the world around me. God's presence, however, offers something that in the long run, makes a greater difference, for in God's grace and mercy, I learn to walk by faith, forgiven and strengthened to take yet another step in any circumstance. Later in this 4th chapter, Paul speaks of contentment in every circumstance. This isn't the complacency of a man worn down by life's experiences, but rather the assurance that in and by God's presence, he can do all things.
In these uncertain times, this assurance can empower our steps, and yes, even bring joy. Remember that as your day unfolds. Remember that as you lie down to rest tonight. Remember that when you cast your vote on Tuesday, and when you awaken next Wednesday.
Don't forget to turn your clocks back an hour before you go to bed Saturday night, and plan to join us for the celebration of communion in worship on Sunday morning.
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice.
Jim Abernathy
Saturday, October 29, 2016
"To Determine What Is Best"
Friends,
By now you should have received a letter announcing my retirement from Westwood and full-time ministry, effective April 30, 2017. As stated in the letter, Cindy and I have reached this decision after much prayer and consideration, and we believe that we are following God's direction into the future. As we step out by faith into what is yet to be revealed, so do you, our Westwood family. There is a process outlined in the bylaws for your next steps and I am confident that God will guide you through that process in the days to come.
Tomorrow morning, my message is entitled, "To Determine What is Best," based on Philippians 1:3-11. From this text I will share five words or phrases that I believe speak to you and me for the days ahead, giving some background about our decision and about the hope we share together for what God still has in store for all of us. I hope you will be present for worship as we begin this next part of our journey together. Please note, I have enclosed at the bottom of this note a copy of my retirement letter if for some reason you have not yet received it.
Immediately following worship tomorrow morning, our fifth Sunday mission project will be to make sandwiches for two shelters in our area, The Carpenter's Shelter in Arlington, and the Bailey's Crossroad Shelter in Falls Church. Carrie Keene will be serving lunch at the Carpenter's Shelter on Monday and could use a few folks to help there, so see her tomorrow if you would like to help. Also, keep in mind the Trunk or Treat celebration in our back parking lot from 4-5 p.m. tomorrow. Bring your children, neighbors, or grandchildren and join the fun.
I Look forward to worshipping with you tomorrow.
Jim Abernathy
October 26, 2016
Dear Friends,
Twentieth century novelist Faith Baldwin, in her work, Evening Star, wrote, “Each season is a forerunner of the next, and as the earth revolves, we learn to adjust, and consent to, the alterations.” I have always appreciated the transition from one season to another and the invitation offered to be made new by the unique experiences and opportunities such transition presents. As Baldwin notes, there are adjustments to be made, consent to these alterations that one makes, which allow for continued growth. It is in that time of transition I now find myself.
For a season I have been blessed to serve as Senior Pastor of Westwood Baptist Church. Cindy, Clayton, and I came to live, worship, and serve among you in August of 2001, and our time here has been one of the rich treasures of our lives. You welcomed us with open arms and have continually affirmed, by your encouragement and support, that God has indeed been at work in the calling and ministry we have shared. We are grateful for the privilege that has been ours to be part of this Westwood family.
We now believe that God is leading us into a new season of life. With that in mind, I share with you my decision to retire from full-time ministry and as Senior Pastor of Westwood Baptist Church, effective April 30, 2017. Cindy, after more than three decades of teaching music in public settings at the elementary, secondary, and college levels will be retiring at the close of the school year as well. Our plan is to relocate to Lexington, Kentucky in the late spring or summer. Clayton will be just over an hour away from us, though his work will bring him to Lexington on a regular basis. We will also be closer to other family members and return to friends we have known for many years. As we have traveled back and forth to Kentucky over the last few months since Clayton’s graduation, it has felt more and more like home, and we believe this to be another affirmation of God’s direction in this move.
This is not a decision made lightly. It does not signal the end of service and ministry for us, but perhaps an adjustment to the alterations life presents, and an invitation to new doors yet unopened. Over these final six months we share together as pastor and people, our hope is that we can continue faithfully what God began in this place more than fifty years ago, encouraging each other to consider with excitement and eager anticipation the next steps God has in store. We will walk with you a short way along this journey, but are confident that God will guide you through this transition as a church family.
The apostle Paul offers encouraging words in the midst of life’s transitions as he writes in Philippians 1:6, “I’m sure about this: the one who started a good work in you will stay with you to complete the job by the day of Jesus Christ.” That is a hope we all share as we learn to adjust and consent to the alterations inherent in the changing seasons of life.
With gratitude to God and deep love within our hearts for our Westwood family,
Jim Abernathy
By now you should have received a letter announcing my retirement from Westwood and full-time ministry, effective April 30, 2017. As stated in the letter, Cindy and I have reached this decision after much prayer and consideration, and we believe that we are following God's direction into the future. As we step out by faith into what is yet to be revealed, so do you, our Westwood family. There is a process outlined in the bylaws for your next steps and I am confident that God will guide you through that process in the days to come.
Tomorrow morning, my message is entitled, "To Determine What is Best," based on Philippians 1:3-11. From this text I will share five words or phrases that I believe speak to you and me for the days ahead, giving some background about our decision and about the hope we share together for what God still has in store for all of us. I hope you will be present for worship as we begin this next part of our journey together. Please note, I have enclosed at the bottom of this note a copy of my retirement letter if for some reason you have not yet received it.
Immediately following worship tomorrow morning, our fifth Sunday mission project will be to make sandwiches for two shelters in our area, The Carpenter's Shelter in Arlington, and the Bailey's Crossroad Shelter in Falls Church. Carrie Keene will be serving lunch at the Carpenter's Shelter on Monday and could use a few folks to help there, so see her tomorrow if you would like to help. Also, keep in mind the Trunk or Treat celebration in our back parking lot from 4-5 p.m. tomorrow. Bring your children, neighbors, or grandchildren and join the fun.
I Look forward to worshipping with you tomorrow.
Jim Abernathy
October 26, 2016
Dear Friends,
Twentieth century novelist Faith Baldwin, in her work, Evening Star, wrote, “Each season is a forerunner of the next, and as the earth revolves, we learn to adjust, and consent to, the alterations.” I have always appreciated the transition from one season to another and the invitation offered to be made new by the unique experiences and opportunities such transition presents. As Baldwin notes, there are adjustments to be made, consent to these alterations that one makes, which allow for continued growth. It is in that time of transition I now find myself.
For a season I have been blessed to serve as Senior Pastor of Westwood Baptist Church. Cindy, Clayton, and I came to live, worship, and serve among you in August of 2001, and our time here has been one of the rich treasures of our lives. You welcomed us with open arms and have continually affirmed, by your encouragement and support, that God has indeed been at work in the calling and ministry we have shared. We are grateful for the privilege that has been ours to be part of this Westwood family.
We now believe that God is leading us into a new season of life. With that in mind, I share with you my decision to retire from full-time ministry and as Senior Pastor of Westwood Baptist Church, effective April 30, 2017. Cindy, after more than three decades of teaching music in public settings at the elementary, secondary, and college levels will be retiring at the close of the school year as well. Our plan is to relocate to Lexington, Kentucky in the late spring or summer. Clayton will be just over an hour away from us, though his work will bring him to Lexington on a regular basis. We will also be closer to other family members and return to friends we have known for many years. As we have traveled back and forth to Kentucky over the last few months since Clayton’s graduation, it has felt more and more like home, and we believe this to be another affirmation of God’s direction in this move.
This is not a decision made lightly. It does not signal the end of service and ministry for us, but perhaps an adjustment to the alterations life presents, and an invitation to new doors yet unopened. Over these final six months we share together as pastor and people, our hope is that we can continue faithfully what God began in this place more than fifty years ago, encouraging each other to consider with excitement and eager anticipation the next steps God has in store. We will walk with you a short way along this journey, but are confident that God will guide you through this transition as a church family.
The apostle Paul offers encouraging words in the midst of life’s transitions as he writes in Philippians 1:6, “I’m sure about this: the one who started a good work in you will stay with you to complete the job by the day of Jesus Christ.” That is a hope we all share as we learn to adjust and consent to the alterations inherent in the changing seasons of life.
With gratitude to God and deep love within our hearts for our Westwood family,
Jim Abernathy
Saturday, October 22, 2016
Ordination
A blessed Saturday to all! Winds of change are blowing (literally) as temperatures and leaves are falling. A long-sleeve shirt and sweater felt good this morning against the chilly winds at the farmer's market. The treasured honey-crisp apples were secured along with some apple cider. Cindy threw in some radishes as well, though I have never quite seen the purpose of that particular vegetable. Her brother is joining us for dinner this evening and I believe she mentioned that he likes radishes, so I will gladly share them with him.
Tomorrow is a special day in the life of our church. Jean Purkey and Kathy Milburn will be ordained as deacons. Ordination is an ancient practice of the church that sets apart particular persons for particular service. It is yet another practice that reminds us of the connection we share with the ancient church, and of the hand of God at work in our congregation. Jean and Kathy were nominated by the church, prayerfully considered by the nominating committee, and finally presented to the church for approval in late August. They will share a bit of their personal faith journeys in tomorrow's worship service and you will have an opportunity to convey a blessing upon them through the time-honored practice of laying on of hands. Be in prayer for Jean, Kathy, and all of our deacons as they serve our Lord and church faithfully.
Let me share reminders of two upcoming events to place on your calendar. The first is our fifth Sunday mission project which will be held immediately after morning worship, October 30. We will be working on a project to assist two local shelters in our area. The second is our fall cleanup day, Saturday, November 12, from 9 a.m.-noon. Raking leaves, trimming bushes, and generally cleaning up our property will be on the agenda, and your help will make the tasks easier and more enjoyable. These are but two important opportunities for service and ministry among many at Westwood. Together, we are making a difference in Jesus' name.
I look forward to seeing you in worship tomorrow morning. Let us gather in anticipation for what the Lord will do within us and among us.
Jim Abernathy
Tomorrow is a special day in the life of our church. Jean Purkey and Kathy Milburn will be ordained as deacons. Ordination is an ancient practice of the church that sets apart particular persons for particular service. It is yet another practice that reminds us of the connection we share with the ancient church, and of the hand of God at work in our congregation. Jean and Kathy were nominated by the church, prayerfully considered by the nominating committee, and finally presented to the church for approval in late August. They will share a bit of their personal faith journeys in tomorrow's worship service and you will have an opportunity to convey a blessing upon them through the time-honored practice of laying on of hands. Be in prayer for Jean, Kathy, and all of our deacons as they serve our Lord and church faithfully.
Let me share reminders of two upcoming events to place on your calendar. The first is our fifth Sunday mission project which will be held immediately after morning worship, October 30. We will be working on a project to assist two local shelters in our area. The second is our fall cleanup day, Saturday, November 12, from 9 a.m.-noon. Raking leaves, trimming bushes, and generally cleaning up our property will be on the agenda, and your help will make the tasks easier and more enjoyable. These are but two important opportunities for service and ministry among many at Westwood. Together, we are making a difference in Jesus' name.
I look forward to seeing you in worship tomorrow morning. Let us gather in anticipation for what the Lord will do within us and among us.
Jim Abernathy
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