“My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to accomplish his work," said Jesus to His apostles. And my, what work he accomplished in his short time on this earth.
In contrast to Christ's thirty-plus years of life, Bethany is now entering its 12th decade of existence here in Sacramento—something hard to believe, isn't it? We who have been associated with it can count ourselves fortunate. We have had a church home that has nourished us spiritually and enabled us to bless the community in many ways.
The hit musical "Hamilton" features a song performed by Thomas Jefferson on his return to America after finishing his term as the country's first ambassador to France. In it, Jefferson acknowledges that the excitement and energy of the new nation's triumph is flagging. He knows that the path ahead is not going to be easy. He sings—almost reluctantly—"Now the work at home begins."
After last Sunday's vote to continue Bethany "as is" (option #3 on the slate of choices), it's clear that we must prepare ourselves for lots of decision-making and task-sharing. Relatively few folks have been involved—as volunteers—in day-to-day operations, Christian education efforts and worship service planning. In an aging congregation such as ours, we will need to think about what additional people-power we can muster ... what new and heretofore talents and skills can be put into play. And what adjustments to expectations might be required. As emphasized in 1 John 3:18, it's not enough to simply speak of love; we must put our faith into action. And that takes prayerful dedication. And work.
Have you thought about your role within the church you consider dear to your heart? What might you be able to contribute to the life of Bethany?
“Use me, God. Show me how to take who I am, who I want to be, and what I can do, and use it for a purpose greater than myself.”
