Tuesday. December 1 Reflection by KC Gubrud, Director of Operations
"... you long to see us, just as we also long to see you."
Those words were written by Paul nearly 2,000 years ago and they could have been written today.
This passage from Thessalonians hits home. There's nothing like a global pandemic to reinforce how deeply meaningful and life-affirming connections to brothers and sisters in Christ are. And nothing like the season of Advent to emphasize longing and waiting for God.
I miss seeing people live and IN PERSON. I especially miss the everyday chats I used to have with CtK BIble Study members on Monday and Tuesday mornings. I miss Wednesday's bustle when Elders in Action folks mingle with Choir Members mingle with confirmation families and everyone is eating Ginger's delicious Wednesday Night meals. Such pleasant memories! I miss seeing CtKers and hearing about the life and death matters and I really miss hearing about how your garden is doing, what books you are reading and what's new with your kids. I miss being with my CtK community of faith. I miss connecting with you all.
As the pandemic continues into its tenth month, I am working on the art of connecting during a pandemic. During phone calls and ZOOM sessions, I set aside time to ask people how they are doing AND to leave space for an honest response no matter where it takes the conversation. I have mailed cards, sent out-of-the-blue texts to friends and family. And, I have never prayed so earnestly as I have in these past months.
Please pray with me: God, we long for you. Help us stay connected to you and to each other. Amen.
"... you long to see us, just as we also long to see you."
Those words were written by Paul nearly 2,000 years ago and they could have been written today.
This passage from Thessalonians hits home. There's nothing like a global pandemic to reinforce how deeply meaningful and life-affirming connections to brothers and sisters in Christ are. And nothing like the season of Advent to emphasize longing and waiting for God.
I miss seeing people live and IN PERSON. I especially miss the everyday chats I used to have with CtK BIble Study members on Monday and Tuesday mornings. I miss Wednesday's bustle when Elders in Action folks mingle with Choir Members mingle with confirmation families and everyone is eating Ginger's delicious Wednesday Night meals. Such pleasant memories! I miss seeing CtKers and hearing about the life and death matters and I really miss hearing about how your garden is doing, what books you are reading and what's new with your kids. I miss being with my CtK community of faith. I miss connecting with you all.
As the pandemic continues into its tenth month, I am working on the art of connecting during a pandemic. During phone calls and ZOOM sessions, I set aside time to ask people how they are doing AND to leave space for an honest response no matter where it takes the conversation. I have mailed cards, sent out-of-the-blue texts to friends and family. And, I have never prayed so earnestly as I have in these past months.
Please pray with me: God, we long for you. Help us stay connected to you and to each other. Amen.