In the letter to the Christians in Rome (this Sundays scripture: Romans 12:1-21), Paul is so encouraging. He knows that they have had huge changes in their lives, and that they face unique challenges because of their acceptance of Jesus. Paul was someone we now call "an itinerant" Preacher and Pastor. That is, he traveled, like Jesus, from town to town, and from community to community, listening to and serving God's flock. I have always loved his ministry style and have tried, in my own small way, to fashion my own ministry after it.
It has especially been my honour to spend these past ten months with you, learning just how well a church in this day and age can actually function. I have felt the truth of Paul's words in this Sunday's reading where he speaks of "the gifts that differ according to the grace given us."
Never have I been in a church (with the exception of St Stephen's on the Hill) that so deeply lives out the reality of Paul's vision for the church. People keep thanking me, and I want to return the immense gratitude I feel at having been welcomed into this special part of your journey of faith.
To say I will miss you is a huge understatement, but we never really say goodbye In God's time of eternity. In the words of the Apostle Paul, then, I leave you with his wish "to continue to give yourselves to God as offerings, which is our spiritual task." So, no goodbyes, just good new starts for all of us as we seek to bring the kingdom on earth as it is in heaven. It is a joy, too, to be leaving with the celebration of Holy Communion, which of course embodies Paul's Theology of living sacrifice.
Blessings and Peace always, Rev Jackie: Outgoing Supply Minister.
Let us give ourselves as a sacrifice as Christ has.......