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Dear Friends in Christ,
"So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are citizens with the saints and also members of the household of God, built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the cornerstone. In him the whole structure is joined together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord; in whom you also are built together spiritually into a dwelling place for God".
(Ephesians 2:19-22).
Houses and households need to be built on a firm foundation. In Ephesians 2:11-22, St. Paul reminds the Church in Ephesus that Jews and Gentiles are reconciled to God through Jesus Christ. Those who were once far off (Gentiles) have been brought near (2:13). Paul goes on to argue that because of Jesus, Jews and Gentiles are not just reconciled to God; they are also reconciled to one another. Jesus has broken down the dividing wall, that is, the hostility between us (2:14). "So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are citizens with the saints and also members of the household of God, built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Jesus Christ himself as the cornerstone" (2:19-20).
So, what happens when there is not a firm foundation?
Our front porch is sagging. There is a crack in the cement pad and there is a crack in the foundation. I've been putting it off for about 2 years, which has only made things worse. During these next couple of weeks, I'll be propping up the porch roof, breaking up the cement pad, and digging out the old foundation. And then I will start the process of making all things new, and I will begin with a new foundation.
I like the choice of words and phrases that St. Paul uses after he writes about the foundation of the apostles and prophets and that Christ Jesus is the corner stone. He writes about being joined together and being built together. He writes about growing into a holy temple and being a dwelling place for God.
I long for my home and for my household to be built on a firm foundation. I have this same longing for the Synod that God has called me to serve.
Staffing for Mission
We are currently posting (through Wednesday, July 5), and prayerfully seeking someone to fill the position of Director for Leadership Development and Congregational Care of the Northwestern Ohio Synod.
The purpose of this newly developed position is
to serve God
by sharing in the mission of the Northwestern Ohio Synod (NWOS) through equipping, developing, and strengthening lifelong learners and strong, mission-minded leaders; implementing strategies that assist the NWOS in its transformation to a discipling culture, and providing care and guidance to congregations in times of transition, conflict, stability, and growth.
Please find a detailed position description and the application process by clicking on the link below.
A Few Comings and Goings
I will be taking some time off these next 2 weeks beginning Tuesday, June 27. Rachel, Hannah, and I will be heading down to Hocking Hills State Park to do some hiking and exploring. This will be followed by much needed work on the front porch at the Beaudoin household (see photo above).
If you are in need of assistance place call Jennifer Prueter or Jacob Henry at the Synod Office at 419-423-3664.
2017: The Year of Grace Memory Verse
Ephesians 2:8
"For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God"
Bless you,
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