A word from Pastor Bette…
Dear Friends,
Throughout the summer, we have been studying how Jesus’ agricultural parables have reminded us that the work of God often happens slowly, quietly, and beneath the surface. Seeds are planted before growth can be seen. Wheat and weeds grow together. Fruit develops in its proper season. Our calling is to remain faithful while trusting God with the harvest.
These parables invite us to reflect and maybe ask what God has been planting, cultivating, pruning, or patiently allowing to grow in the congregation which connects to recent themes on patience, grace, and trusting God’s timing.
We know God’s kingdom often begins in small, hidden, or easily overlooked ways. A mustard seed seems insignificant. Treasure lies buried in an ordinary field. A pearl must be recognized as worth pursuing. A net gathers an abundance that must later be sorted. Together, those images invite us to pay attention and to notice all the ways that God is growing, revealing, and gathering among us.
God’s work may begin in small ways, remain hidden for a time, or require patient attention. But we can see the subtle “mustard seeds” of growth at Jamestown—in our faithful worship, children being welcomed and baptized, people serving, visitors of all ages being received, ministries continuing and relationships growing. In a way, the church community begins to vitally sustain many kind of life, as does a mustard plant with branches that give shelter to birds.
We continually look more and more like the image which the Apostle Paul speaks of so often as the Body of Christ.
Praise be to God for his amazing grace and this holy mystery!! Amen!
As we head closer to Fall, we will begin a sermon series looking at the Psalms, worship, song, and seeking the face of God through praise and song. I invite you to join us beginning the first Sunday in August as we listen to these ancient prayers and discover how they continue to speak to our lives today.
Love and peace to you all,
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