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"What do these stones mean to you?" "What do these stones mean to you?" This is the question that Joshua lifted up when God's people finally crossed the Jordan into the promised land, and when Joshua commanded them to make a stone memorial to commemorate the event. Joshua urged the people to tell their children and their children's children that these stones were not just a dead memorial, but a living testimony to all that God had done for them, and to God's continuing faithful presence with them on the journey. (See Joshua 4). "What do these stones mean to you?" was also the text I chose to preach on August 30 when we dedicated our cornerstone at the new building. Just as God once led his people safely through the sea, through the wilderness, and safely through the waters to a land of new possibilities, so God has led us on this journey so far. Just as Jesus himself passed through the waters of the Jordan in his baptism as he began his public ministry, so He was with us when we passed through the waters of baptism into new life. And so is He with us now as we continue in our ministry of OUTREACH. "What do these stones mean to you?" We can rejoice in this new building, and all the possibilities it offers us for a stronger witness and deeper service to our community. Yet we all know that it's not ultimately about the stones. The building is important because of the ways it serves and strengthens our mission in Christ's name. Things are definitely on the move right now in our life together! This month, we will (finally!) be moving into the new building. On October 4th, we will be kicking off a new three-year capital campaign. That same afternoon, we will be hosting a community Blessing of the Animals. On October 7, we will be kicking off a new midweek ministry, "Wednesdays at the Crossroads". And for October 23-25 we are planning a congregational retreat weekend at Camp Nawakwa. Sometime this month we'll be raising white potatoes for October distribution by the Big Spring Area Food Bank. "What do these stones mean to you?" What will you say to your children, and your children's children? In the coming weeks, I hope to be able to see all of you at one of the small group meetings hosted by the building campaign committee. These meetings will provide an opportunity to tour the new building, learn more about the capital campaign, and engage in some bible study and conversation together about our hopes and dreams for the future. In preparation for those conversations, I would invite you to think and pray about the following questions: "How do you see the dream of God being built among us now at BSULC?" and "How is God calling you right now to make that dream become a reality?" In hope and thanksgiving, Pastor Jean |
