My heart is bursting with such joy and zeal for life. This weekend, I’m blessed with the opportunity to officiate the wedding of my best friend. Seven years ago, if you would of said, that I would be asked to officiate weddings — I most likely would have chuckled at such a statement.
When reflecting upon the events of this weekend, I can’t help but think about all the people in my life that believed in me even when it was difficult for me to believe in myself. What has always struck me about church is the warm welcoming and loving hugs people receive upon entering the doors on Sunday mornings.
I will never forget the day when my Pastor looked me in the eyes with his hand on my shoulder and said: “I believe in you. I believe in your gifts and talents and I’m here to help you share them with the world.” This invitation that was given to me changed the trajectory of my life forever. This is the exact Spirit that exists within the walls of The First Congregational Church of Darien. Giving others a platform to share their gifts and talents with the world.
We are so blessed to have one of our very own, Joe Pankowski, preach the word of God this Sunday at church. On Sunday, Joe will preach from John’s account of Jesus entering the Temple in Jerusalem and driving out the money-changers and those selling animals to pilgrims arriving for the Passover festival. What does this tell us about Jesus and his passion for his Father’s house? Just as importantly, what meaning does this narrative have for how we live our lives today?
The passion Jesus has for his Father’s church is the same passion we share for our church. Pastor Dale and I applaud and invite everyone to share his or her faith with the world.
I’m extremely grateful that Joe is leading us this Sunday in worship. We are anticipating the Holy Spirit to use him to bless our minds, hearts and souls.
I’m reminded of one of my favorite Bible verses from the letter to the Romans: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13, NRSV)
Believing in others takes minimal effort yet produces maximum results. Lets continue to believe in one another.
Compassionately,
Gary Michael