Holy Encounters with Jesus

Hello Gloria Dei,

As we read through the gospel of John as a congregation, one of the things I love about this gospel is the uncanny knack Jesus has for one on one, Holy Encounters with different people.

This weekend we are let in on a beautiful and intriguing conversation between Jesus and a Pharisee named Nicodemus (See John 3:1-21). Nicodemus had heard about Jesus. He apparently had even heard Jesus teach and preach. And Nicodemus was curious. He was looking for something missing in his life, and he wondered if Jesus could possibly be the answer. Could Jesus be the long-awaited Messiah?

I invite you to think about what it is that makes you curious about Jesus. What is it in your life that causes a hole in your soul? What is it that is missing? What is it that you wonder about?
I love the dialogue; back and forth they go. There is some misunderstanding on Nicodemus’ part, and that’s okay. Jesus continues to clarify and to teach.

Jesus does the same with us. We don’t understand everything. God’s ways are higher and often different than our ways. Yet, like Nicodemus, we are invited into deep, rich, conversations with Jesus. Go to him with your questions, with your longings, with your life. Jesus will engage you. He will dialogue with you. He will bring understanding and clarification to some of the first order questions of life: What am I here for? What is my purpose? Does God really care? What is the meaning of life? Is there life after this one?

Each and every week, come to worship with open hearts and open minds, eager to listen and learn from a Holy Encounter with Jesus.

Two more things. With the Omicron COVID variant spreading quickly, we are once again recommending (not mandating) that you wear a mask while in worship and/or in church school. This is just one step in continuing to love neighbor and self. If you need one, masks will be available at the entrances to the church.

And just a reminder that our Annual Meeting is taking place on Sunday, January 30, at 11:45 in the sanctuary. This will be livestreamed on our website, but you must be present in person to vote. You are invited to read through the Annual Report prior to our meeting.

Continued blessings and I’ll see you in worship.

Pastor Tim