In the Gospel of Mark there
is scene in chapter two that is outstanding; Jesus is hanging out with the most
recent disciple he has called and the religious leaders ask a very challenging
question. They ask, "Why is Jesus eating with all those sinners?" Three
observation about this challenge: 1. Jesus calls sinners to be his disciples.
2. Eating together is an important part of Jesus ministry. 3. Ministry often
will take us in directions that those in power will be intimidated by.
Our annual meeting was held
this past Sunday, January 26. Us sinners gathered, ate a meal
together and we leaned fully into our ministry for those on the margins. We are
a ministry of Jesus in the world. A place where all of God's people are welcome
and challenged to love creation more than profits. Our lives are changed when
we encounter Jesus, just as Levi's life was changed. Thanks be to God.
At this meeting we witnessed Kaaren Hatlen passing on the duties of president to Paul
Ehe. What a great sign of our health that our leadership is being passed from
one incredible person of faith to another. We give thanks for our new council
members as well: Roger Wolter (2nd term), Christy Freriks (1st term), Holly
Batstone (1st term) and Randall Wampler (1st term). These people will add
amazing new voices to our Vision 2025 process.
All of this is a sign of our
relationship with God, with our ministry and with each other. I hope that we
can continue to build healthy relationships so that we can live fully into the
future that God is calling us into.
If you have any questions
please reach out to your council leadership team or your congregation staff. We
want to make sure that we all feel confident in this good work.
