I spied the leaf-raker. Organized, yet gentle; hardworking, yet at peace; diligent, yet introspective: Totally in communion with God and the beauty of His sanctuary. The sight made me want to rake them in, too. There were many different colors and varieties. It did not matter, just to be in communion with God while raking them in: imperfect, yet beautiful... wonderfully made. Oh, to be a leaf-raker, too.
I wrote this based on how leaf-raking has helped me become closest to God throughout my life. Sadly, I have often hurt my back in doing so, using my back to rake after my legs and arms have become exhausted. I now mow our leaves into the mower bag instead, while finding other projects to do outside that allow me to be in God's theater where it becomes very easy to carry out the first commandment.
Fortunately, our Father did not create us to go dormant. In fact, now is a good time to help grow our church. Can you volunteer to do one or two things (your choice) for Hope Church, if you have not already? If you feel somehow inadequate, does that make you any different than the fishermen, among others, that Jesus chose to bring the Gospel to the entire world? He could have looked to the wealthy, the priesthood, and business owners. Instead, he chose those who knew they were inadequate, were sinners, and thus were humble and grateful. Therefore, we at Hope, will gladly find a place for you —who are created in His image — to serve. Talk to an elder, an usher, a pastor, staff member or your "neighbor" in church.
Getting back to Fall, Hope has beautiful grounds. Talk to Bo if you would like to volunteer to help with a project or perhaps claim a spot to care-take. I walked some of our extensive grounds recently. How beautiful! Come here and take a walk some evening. I saw a whitetail deer jump into the cornfield. And how about our own "field of dreams" - our volleyball courts!
Please pray for our pastoral search committee, Elder board, and staff, that God leads them all to who He wants for us. We know that He has someone for us. Please pray to God, in the name of Jesus (the Christ), and through the Holy Spirit. We will then not fail.
Pastor John and team are back from Ecuador, and PJ is in his usual good spirits. Talk about a pastor who exemplifies WWJD! He reported to us that the mission ministry that Gary Waack started is wonderful and worthy. A church has been built. It is nothing to look at by our country's standards, but it is in place, is loved, and it brings Hope. What a work Gary participated in! What a welcome he must have received in God's kingdom.
Remember that you matter. Our goal is to fulfill the commandments— and that the first two are all that we really need to know (Mark 12:30-31).
We have a relationship with God through Jesus, and He provides us with the Holy Spirit for the purpose of perfect communication with Him and with others.
Tad Nelson, Elder
