One week ago today, I was sitting in a chalet, perched at the 11,000’ summit of one of the peaks in Wyoming’s Teton mountain range. As I was listening to two other church leaders explore ideas of leadership in the future church, I experienced a real “aha! moment.” As they were discussing the effects of the uncertainty during the pandemic and the continuing ambiguity we’re experiencing, I recognized a resonating strain of this same reality for the church I am called to serve.
Do you know the full story behind the proposed sacred settlement that we are developing? Have you wondered about the motivations of our ministry partners at Settled? Are you curious how a new law will help propel churches like Prince of Peace to be more effective in our callings to walk with the poor, bringing aid and comfort, while being transformed in the process?
Today, I’m writing from one of my favorite places on earth. I’m nestled in at the base of the Teton mountains, in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, just outside of Grand Teton National Park. The iconic rugged peaks of the Tetons are looming above me and the wide flood plain of the Snake River stretches out before me. This grand backdrop has set a stage for moose, elk, and bear to all make their appearances. And the crisp mountain air is rapidly performing a full exchange in my body, pushing out whatever metaphysical baggage I may have been carrying with me from home, and resupplying me with a renewed breath of the Spirit.
“The Trinity” is considered the most famous icon of the Russian Orthodox church. The other name for this artwork is “The Hospitality of Abraham,” for it’s based on the story from Genesis that was our focus text during worship yesterday. I have been fascinated by this painting ever since first seeing a photo of it during my time in seminary. I would love to make a pilgrimage to experience it in person someday. But today, that feels like a nearly impossible feat.
When we look out into the world, it’s so easy to feel overwhelmed by all the places where help is needed. This can weigh especially heavy on the hearts and minds of those, like us, who have come to know the transformative power of God’s love. It’s especially helpful then, when stories of God’s love in action get a little light shined upon them.
There are lots of board games where players may find themselves going back to the beginning or starting point during the course of the game. This mechanic is often used to create tension, add strategy, or increase the overall challenge. Have you ever played Sorry!, Chutes & Ladders, Candyland, or The Game of Life? That last one fittingly names a reality with which we all can identify, sometimes life just takes you back to the beginning where you have to start all over again.