Happy Baptism

This time of the year is filled with celebrations that mark important events in our lives like graduations, Mother’s day, and Father’s day.  My family has a number of birthdays and anniversaries throughout the spring.  Celebrating  significant landmarks helping us cherish those important moments in people’s lives.

Baptism is a powerful moment that celebrates God’s choosing us.  We matter to God.  Before we even recognize God’s draw on us, God has staked a claim on our hearts.

Many years ago, one of my members told me she heard her five year old daughter running water in the bathroom.  She entered to find her little girl with her baby dolls immersed in the bathtub as she was busily baptizing them.  For that child, observing a baptism in church had a significant influence.

Sunday, we will be celebrating a baptism at Aldersgate, and I hope it will help us all remember the significant place God has in each of our lives.  Happy Baptism!

Pastor Pam

 

Guest Speaker

This week, I am in Nebraska. South Sioux City to be specific, attending a national specialty competition.  Nebraska is in the Great Plains.  When early European settlers came to the area, the land was inhabited by the great Crowe Indian Nation and the Sioux Indian Nation.  The great Homestead Act of 1860 enabled many poor farmers from the east to settle in this area.  The landscape is dotted with large Indian burial grounds and is quite beautiful. We will be staying in a lovely hotel on the banks of a lovely river with walking trails surrounding the grounds of the resort hotel.  I am excited about seeing my good friends.  I also will see several of my dogs who will be competing in various events but none of my personal dogs will go with me.  I am sure you are probably more interested in what is happening at church next Sunday than a travel log of my vacation.

Preaching at both services is Greg Brandt who is a certified lay speaker from Irmo, S.C. where he and his wife are members of Union United Methodist church.  Greg is on the board of the Lowman Home, and regularly preaches there.  He is also a cousin through marriage to Ella Jane Messer.  Last year, Ella Jane shared copies of some of the sermons he had preached at the Lowman Home.  I thought they were wonderful and knew you all would love to hear Greg.  I am most grateful to him and his wife for coming to be with us.  He will be assisted at both services by AL Quarles, one of our own lay speakers.

Enjoy, and I know you will give the Brandts a warm welcome.

Pastor Pam

 

Birds of the Air

Look at the birds of the air, they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them, Are you not of more value than they? And can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your span of life?    - Matthew 6:26-27

Our church’s coffee and conversation group meets on Monday morning, and I join them when I can.  I have learned some interesting things about the various members.  For example, Steve Matson only associates with giants.  If you want to check out the truth of what I say, try to get in his old truck!

John Threatt is another really interesting guy at church.  John is one of the guys who runs the sound board for worship.  Before he retired, he worked at a nuclear plant.  My first year here, I learned John is like a race horse at the starting gate when spring arrives.  He is rearing and stomping and chomping at the bit to plant his tomatoes.  Let us have a nice long period of warmth before Easter, he can’t contain himself.  He has to put his plants out.  He recently shared an email with me that offered another dimension to John, part of his love for his tomato plants is a love for hummingbirds.

John wrote me the following note several weeks ago:

It’s been cool lately so I was not in a hurry to put out any hummingbird feeders on my tomato cage.   I had questioned my friends, and none had even seen a hummingbird this year. I was therefore surprised to see a lone hummer sitting on top of the wire on the tomato cage looking like a puffball and pretty miserable. His wee body language said “where are the feeders that are supposed to be here?” He had to be one of “my” birds because how else would he know that there were supposed to be feeders there?  I almost ran to the garage and prepared the first two feeders and put some commercial feed in them.  I usually switch to pure sugar after it warms up and the birds can catch other food.  They catch small bugs like gnats for protein.

Recently, my daily devotional had a message written by John Sweeney.  He reminded me of some facts about St Francis of Assisi.  Sweeney said St Francis was known for preaching to the birds, but also he taught Christians to find a different way to live in God’s world.  A key Franciscan principle which comes straight from the Gospel is, “Live less for security and more in joy and anticipation for what God can do in your life.”

Sweeney went on to remind us that St. Francis told his friars, when planting the annual vegetable garden, to be sure to leave a portion of the soil for planting flowers.  Flowers had no practical value, and they offered no security for the friars during the winter months, but Francis called them his little “sisters” and he loved to look at their beautiful colors.  In his devotional, Sweeney encourages us to have a little less preoccupation with survival stuff, and make room for the joys like those early arriving hummingbirds, trusting that God will fill their physical and spiritual needs. Thanks, John, for caring for a creature of such exquisite beauty and wonder.

Pastor Pam

 

Simple Moments

What do you remember from your life that seems special?  For me it is never the grand big splashy events but simple things that paint a precious memory.  From childhood, I remember my grandfather making a play hut out of boards and sheets attached to an old gnarly fruit tree.  I played for hours in my hut.  Also precious were the morning breakfasts my grandfather and I shared.  We sat at a little table talking about all kinds of things that fascinate a child.  Papa would fill my saucer with about two tablespoons of coffee, a lot of cream and a generous amount of sugar.  I treasure the memories of my grandfather and the simple moments we shared.

Years later, I had the chance to make memories with my nephew, Josh.  When Josh would visit me when he was young, we too had our rituals.  Early morning began with a breakfast to the stories of Jerry Clower on the radio.  Both of us laughing at the antics of the Ledbetters.  The day was spent exploring in the woods.  We packed a picnic, and looked for treasures.  I remember Josh’s excitement when he thought we were rich because he found gold (micah) in a stream bed.

Not so long ago Maclane came to visit at my house in Lugoff.  We camped out in the back yard, pitching a tent, making s’mores, and finding walking sticks.

In the fall, Maclane and his grandmom came to Rock Hill and the three of us went to Discovery Place.  We packed a picnic.  I told Maclane we had  gourmet peanut butter sandwiches.  We had a tail gate at the car on the roof to Discovery Place.  I think Maclane enjoyed that as much as Discovery Place itself.

To me, these memories echo the stories of Jesus coming back to the disciples after he was resurrected.

Coming and sitting with them sharing a meal.  Years later they would have recalled those special moments they shared a simple meal with Christ.

Treasure the small moments.  Later on they will be so precious.

Pastor Pam

About Those Worms

What about those worms?  It looks like an invasion.  Storm troopers of little worms, suspended from silky fine filaments from the trees, worms covering the drive, garbage can, cars.  Everywhere I look there are these worms.  They are frantically going someplace.  They cover the opening of the garage door when I open it.  They are troublesome, requiring frequent trips to clean the car.  They are a nuisance because I worry they could unknowingly have gotten on me as they drop without warning from their silky ropes onto my clothes.  I have a fear of one of the little creatures crawling out of my robe while I am preaching, to the horror of the congregation.  While I might fret and storm about them, there is really little I can do.

I think about the things we get in such a stew about that we really can’t change.  So much of our energy goes to focusing on problems we cannot change, that we miss the blessings and important things right there in front of us.  As aggravating as the worms have been, they are the advent of spring and the wonderful sunny days we are now having.

The disciples were walking down the road, deep in discussion about what they had seen in Jerusalem that week.  They talked about Jesus’ crucifixion, the betrayal, and probably all that had happened.  Thank goodness they were not too engrossed in talking about the events to become a part of the unfolding new story of the resurrection and miss their very own encounter with the living Savior.

The worms are challenging me to not sweat the small stuff and keep my eye on the new unfolding important things God really wants me to see and be a part of.  Before you know it the worms will disappear and just be a memory.

Pastor Pam

 

 

 

Standing at the Foot of the Cross

He has been dead many years, but one of the people I have cherished in my life was Reverend Dennis.   He was a retired United Methodist minister who lived at the Methodist Oaks.  He served St. Matthews and was still adored by his former parishioners years after he had served the church. My first week as chaplain, he came into my office and introduced himself.  He said, ”You have all the residents to care for as chaplain, but I will be your minister.”  What a gift.  So many times I went to his cozy apartment and sat for a conversation.

One of our beloved residents chose to commit suicide.  All of the residents were devastated.  I conducted his funeral even though I was as grief stricken as everyone else.  After completing the graveside service, I stepped away from the funeral tent and stood behind a large tree, finally allowing myself to cry.  There was Reverend Dennis ready with a comforting hug.  He truly was my pastor and friend.

I tell you this story as I think about the disciple who comforted Mary at the crucifixion.  Probably his arms encircled her, comforting her as she grieved for her son at the foot of the cross.

This week during Holy week think about the people who have comforted you and give thanks for them. But as you reflect think also about the ways you can be a comfort to others.

For us at Aldersgate, comforting others is an important part of ministry.  This may mean comforting  those outside our usual circle of friends.  It was not comfortable to stand at the foot of the cross during Jesus’ death, but his friends stayed.  Can we be the people who bring comfort to the world?

Pastor Pam

 

Precious Memories

My stepfather’s death was devastating for us all, but especially for my nephew, Josh.  He and his granddad had been best buds all through his life.  Immediately after Daddy died, I was given the task of finding his discharge papers in his room.  Not an easy task; he had saved everything.  As I went through Daddy’s things, Josh sat by me and we talked about the grandfather he loved so much.  We set aside papers and items to save that somehow represented his grandfather.  After we finished, Josh and I made a memory box for things that reminded him of his granddad.  It has been over 12 years since daddy died, but I am sure Josh still has that box someplace.

We all have things that remind us of people precious to us; drawings and art work your children made, or perhaps an adolescent letter from your child that still brings a smile.

There was a lovely lady at Methodist Oaks where I was chaplain who had all her husband’s love letters from long ago when he courted her.  Every week her daughter would read them to her.  All of us have precious mementos of those we love.

During Lent, we have placed mementos of items that remind us of Jesus’ last week before the cross.  They help us remember what Jesus endured.

What would God have to remember us by?  What precious things have we done to honor God?  What ways have we shown our love?  My nephew’s memory box of his grandfather was full when Josh and I finished.  Would the precious memories God have of us be overflowing?  Think about your life in terms of ways you can leave blessing for God to enjoy.  That could make all the difference for our relationship with God and for our spiritual life.

Pastor Pam

 

Homecomings

It is so exciting for a church family to watch a child who was raised in the church give his life to God and enter ministry.  Who would have thought that Jonathan – a toddler not so long ago in some of yourmemories, will soon be completing his second year of seminary at Emory.  Jonathan and Marissa have so much to offer the church.  Jonathan, with his quick mind and compassionate heart, will be a wonderful minister.  Marissa, with her love for children and gift for music, will also be such a blessing to the children she will work with.  This Sunday, Marissa and Jonathan return to us.  We will have a love offering to show our support for them and to offset some of the expense they incur living in Atlanta.  Following the service, we will rejoice with a covered luncheon in their honor.

We also celebrate with June McCall whose grandson, Eric, is finishing his first semester at Duke.  Eric has attended worship at Aldersgate several times with his grandmother.  One day, our church may be blessed to have someone as fine as Jonathan, Marissa, or Eric sent to us as pastor.

While we are celebrating with Jonathan and Marissa, I will also be thinking of a very dear friend, Margaret Paul, who will be celebrating her 90^th birthday.  I call Margaret my second mom.  When I went to my first appointment, Margaret accepted me into her family.  She encouraged me, challenged me, and loved me through those first years of ministry.  She has always been the kind of person who supported her pastor, spoke honestly with them and accepted them for who they were.  The crowd at Margaret’s birthday gathering will be filled with family, friends and pastors.

I mention Margaret because like Jonathan, Eric and Marissa, Margaret has a calling.  She embodies that disciple spirit that brings others to Christ.  She is the first to invite someone new into her home.  She will get up and go hold a baby for parents so they may take communion.  She is the confidant for those going through tough times.  Over and over again, I have seen her love her neighbor as she would Christ.

In Dover, we had a pack of wild ten to twelve year old boys who came to Magnolia when I was pastor there.  They would ride their dirt bikes to church, throw them in the bushes and come in late, dressed in preteen weekend play attire.  Some of the teachers would ask me to tell the boys to stay home if they couldn’t act properly in Sunday School.  I ignored the complaints while Margaret volunteered to become their teacher and friend.  Ministers move on, but Margaret stayed and kept in touch with these boys as they grew into men.  Several of them came from homes where they had little parental support.  Margaret became an important person in their lives.

Several years ago, Margaret was walking in downtown Dover when she heard a man’s voice calling “Mrs. Paul, Mrs. Paul!”  A young man in uniform rushed across the busy street and gave her a huge bear hug.  It was one of those wild boys, grown up, back home and overjoyed to see his old friend and teacher.  All of us should mean as much to the stranger as Margaret has over the years.  There is no one dearer to my heart than Margaret, and certainly no one who loves the church more than “Paul” as all her friends call her.   I wish her the happiest of birthdays and pray for a church full of Christians like her, Jonathan, Marissa and Eric.

Pastor Pam

 

Asking Why

Inquisitiveness is a great trait to have.  It may become tiresome and challenging for parents and grandparents, but fostering curiosity develops a child into a perpetual learner.  Jesus was curious—that’s why he became lost on the return trip from Jerusalem.  Remember how his family found him studying in the synagogue with the priests?

I always get excited when someone asks me about our faith and the Bible. I don’t always have a ready answer, but I am willing to look with the person.  Steve Matson is a “Why” person and has challenged me on many occasions with brain stumpers about the Bible.  Last Sunday, another member joined the “Why” club and asked a very astute question:  Why does Easter’s date change so dramatically from year to year?

To answer her and anyone else who has wondered, there is a simple answer and a more complex one.  Passover falls during the first full moon each year following the Spring Equinox on our calendar.  An almanac can help us figure out when that will be.  We know from Scripture that Easter must coincide with the sacrifice of the Passover Lamb, for which Christ became the substitute at the crucifixion.  His crucifixion was the once and for all sacrifice that gives us complete forgiveness.  But the early Gentile Christians did not really understand how to calculate the Passover sacrifice on the Jewish lunar-based calendar, so they used a calendar they easily understood, the Roman Julian calendar developed by Julius Caesar.  They made the celebration of Easter coincide and supersede the very popular celebration of the first fruits of Spring Equinox.  The pagan understanding was eventually forgotten and now the date is our Easter.

No matter how or why Easter is dated as it is, it is still important to ponder what we believe.

On to another topic I promised to answer Ash Wednesday! The four times “40” is mentioned in the Bible:

#1: God told Jonah to preach to the people of Nineveh for forty days, hoping they would change their sinful ways.  Nineveh must have given the name “Sin City” its true meaning.  Jonah was so frightened to obey, he tried to run away and ended up in a huge fish’s belly.  Then he decided he’d better do what God asked.

#2: Moses and the children of Israel wandered around in the desert for forty years.  During that time they were to repent and change the sinful ways they had developed, so they might be worthy of the Promised Land.

#3: Moses was on the mountain for forty days praying and fasting, preparing to receive the Ten Commandments.

#4: Finally, the one we all remember:  Jesus was in the wilderness for forty days praying, fasting and resisting Satan’s temptations.

You see, we all need to find a way to be spiritual cleansed.  Just like I shared last week, if we don’t ask why and really, honestly examine our lives we will never have the deep relationship we need with God.

Pastor Pam

 

A Little Goes a Long Way

The last few weeks have taught me a lot. The bone I broke will heal easily, and with no cast I might add! The affected foot turned out to be my left foot so I can still drive.  My church family has been wonderfully supportive.  Short of me whining and my foot hurting the first week, I think I am most fortunate.  I have also learned some important lessons.

Immediately, I had to make an adjustment in my routine.  There was no way I could carry my purse.  For us females, our purse is an extension of our body.  Men laugh at us for carrying it, but they often need some of its mysterious contents.  Mine was clearly hampering my ability to get where I needed to go, so I made the difficult decision to leave my purse behind.  I could only take what a pocket or two could carry.  Essential was my driver’s license, a credit card, and a little cash.  Amazingly, I got by just fine and really did not miss my purse all that much.  We will see what happens when my foot is healed enough to carry a purse again!

The lesson I have learned from this is I do not really need all I think I need.  I can get by with very little. Maybe that applies to life as well.  I stress over what I think I have to have, but stuff can be such a burden.  Learning to simplify can be such a great gift.

After all, nowhere in the New Testament did it say Jesus carried luggage everywhere he went!

While we may need less things than we think we do, what we should not leave behind are the faith and confidence that God is with us.  Hopefully, you and I will be sure to take along the courage, hope and kindness this faith puts in our hearts.  One thing I have learned, no matter how bumpy the road (or stairs!) in the end it will all be good!

Pastor Pam