Well, here we are at the end of another week and it’s time once again for another newsletter article. Week after week, we put together these pages of ponderings and announcements so that everyone can stay informed of what is going on in our parish. Yet, for some reason, this week I find myself at a loss for words, uncertain of what needs to be said in the moment. I don’t know what message needs to be conveyed or what new news you might be interested in.
Honestly, I’ve found myself in this situation before. I’ve never thought myself to be a good writer or eloquent speaker. In fact, as an introvert, I’ve often been scared to say much of anything. I suppose that is why I find such comfort in Jesus’ words as he sent out the twelve apostles. As they were going out to do the ministry which Jesus had asked of them, Jesus knew there would be persecution, that many would speak negatively about what they were doing, and even resort to violence to ensure that the gospel message did not spread. To this Jesus simply responded:
“…do not worry about how you are to speak or what you are to say; for what you are to say will be given to you at that time; 20 for it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.” (Matthew 10:19-20, NRSV)
Have you ever considered that? Have you ever noticed that the right words seem to come at just the right time? It is amazing how the Holy Spirit empowers us to conduct ministry. It is amazing how God speaks through us when we allow Him to. Perhaps there is a situation in your life today wherein God has sent you to be His messenger. Are you open to the possibility? Are you open to what God can do in that moment? “Do not worry,” for when that time comes, it will be “the Spirit of your [heavenly] Father speaking through you.”
Pastor Steve