Moderator’s April Message

As Easter approaches, I always find myself examining my relationship with Jesus.

He was sent to earth in the form of a man to show us how to have a close and personal relationship with God. So this year, in my reflections, I can’t help but think about the recent retreat we had, trying to determine what is important to us as a church and a community. 

It was very evident that we all wanted to have more connection with people in and out of church. I think that we can use the way we connect with God to reach out and feel connected to each other. I’ll give you an example. I have always loved reading and music. I can find Jesus in so many beautiful songs or in a snippet of writing. I started reading The Chosen book series this past month. Now, let me say, I have full understanding that while there are Bible passages in this book and it follows the timeline of Jesus’ life as far as it is known, it is still a work of fiction. However, there is so much background I was unaware of that can be seen in the context of the traditions and beliefs of the people of His time. This helps me to understand the sentiment behind the Biblical recounting of Jesus’ words.  In essence, I can better understand the meaning between “follow me” as written on paper if I imagine Jesus approaching two fishermen, face to face, and asking them to abandon everything they ever known and follow Him. He was the Messiah that had been long promised and that these people were waiting and praying for. For me, this helps to bring the Bible to life as I imagine the love and care with which Jesus spoke to people. 

So how does that translate into greater social connection? I believe if we use the way we connect with Jesus to connect with others, we can have that deep connection we are craving. For me, that would be doing a group study on hymns, singing in a choir, or being part of a book club. Others see Jesus in nature. They could join a walking club, a camera club, or go camping on the weekends. Meeting more people means more opportunity to share God’s love, whether in words, actions, or just admiring the world that he has given to us.

Meet others where they are and show them what God’s love really is here on earth. We all have the light of Jesus in us and are told not to hide it. Once we connect with others, that light can shine for all to see. 

~ Kelley Anderson