Peace

It is just day one, I have walked with one or two, shared meals with a few and I have shared the feast of God with many.

Along the way, across the table and during the feast here are some of the words I have heard:

"It is less about the decisions we make and more about how we are as we make those decisions..."

"Today is the beginning of a handing off of our work..."

"Be wise and be fair..."

"You know my husband died since I last saw you..."

"Our grandchild will need heart surgery at just 1 year old..."

"I gave 10 shekels to the woman and her daughter begging at the side of the road, he gave her his bible and said read this - this is what you need..."

"How are you, really?" "I'm just heartbroken..."

"Peace! Be still!...and there was a dead calm..."

"Nature bowed to him"...

"How did she know I had been swamped? That my boat was being stirred about?"

"As we make our decisions this week let us keep in our minds those children who are in peril because of adults with childish ways..."

"Put peace into each other's hands..."

"As at communion, shape your hands...the gift of Christ receive, revere, united 'round the table..."

Come Holy Spirit, Come.  Peace, peace peace.

Almost there

I am Deb Swanson, a pastor at Trinity Reformed Church in Grand Rapids as well as a wife, mother and grandmother.  Today I finished reading the mighty workbook and will soon pack my bags to head for Holland tomorrow. 

I have been to many General Synods, mostly as a corresponding delegate.  This Synod promises to hold some good memories as we gather with friends we haven't seen in a while, as we celebrate the 30th anniversary of the ordination of women,  consider the timely Belhar Confession and of course celebrate John Calvin! 

I look forward to worshiping together, eating meals together, walking to meetings together.  As pastors, elders and staff we can come together and see how our many different communities are connected to one another and to the True Vine.  To God be the glory.