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Monday, May 10, 2021

When I was attending Trinity Lutheran Seminary in Columbus, Ohio, I worked part-time at the front desk. I would greet visitors, students, and faculty and answer the phones. In that area where I was seated and worked, were the faculty and staff mailboxes. This was a neat time to have general conversation with the professors and others on the staff as they came by to get their mail.

One day a favorite professor, Dr. Paul Harms, came by and sat down to chat with me. He asked how I was doing, and I shared just what I said yesterday in my sermon. I told him I was anxious, finals were coming up, and I was about to enter the process of being assigned to a particular Synod. (In your senior year your name goes into a "draft" in a selection committee before the Council of Bishops. I had stated a preference for Indiana/Kentucky).

He said something I wrote down in my Bible, "Some days it is enough to make it to evening." I don't recall the origin of the quote or whether it was his philosophy. Some days it is enough to make it to evening. Today, friends, put aside the anxiety, worry, and the press and stress of every day. Simply think about tonight....what will be for dinner? What book will you read or TV show will you watch?

My favorite moments of the day are these moments of evening when the day is done: slipping into "jimmy jams" comfortable sleeping attire, working my jigsaw puzzles, and watching reruns of The Office! Sometimes I have meetings, things to do, friends to call, or family to talk to. Each evening I recall the blessings of the day and all that I am thankful for. I rest well and get up and do it again, just as we all do! And, tomorrow morning, when anxiety creeps in, I will remember what Dr. Harms said, and I will make dinner plans and set up my jigsaw puzzle, with the TV remotes and some tea nearby.

God bless you today and always. I am rounding again at both churches with visits to get better acquainted and share the Holy  Supper together. Are you available? Need to talk, share, cry?? Please let me know.

Call my cell or email anytime,
Pr. Doug

Please be sure to read Bishop Gafkjen's letter that is attached below. It includes helpful information, guidelines, and resources in response to the pandemic we are in.

Remember:

  • Worship time changed to 9am on Sunday, May 2.
  • Recorded worship will be available on website, Facebook, &email Sunday afternoons.
  • Office Hours 10-4, T-W-TH.
  • Midweek Moment Wednesdays 12pm.
  • Communion Kits can be picked up at the church office.
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