“Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained in a righteous life.” -Proverbs 16:31
For me November is the month that I really focus on gratitude. Generally
speaking, giving our attention to all that we have instead of all that we want, leads to a
more joyful existence. This year, I’ve been thinking a lot about my parents and
grandparents. They raised me in the church. They set wonderful examples for me in
how to follow Jesus Christ.
Beyond those people in my family, I am also mindful of the various other adults that have shaped my faith. I had Sunday School teachers that taught me about the bible and real people throughout history that practiced their faith in so many ways. One of my teachers was a Vietnam Vet, who had spent time as a POW. He told us a few (age appropriate) stories of his time in captivity. He survived his ordeals because of his faith. He had already given up so much, but he wanted to spend his time teaching little kids about the love of Jesus.
I remember the church secretary spending time telling me stories while I waited for my dad. It was church people that taught me to crochet, play various games, and even perform a proper cartwheel. My dad was a fabulous pastor, who did elaborate Vacation Bible Schools and taught confirmation classes. That said, I wouldn’t be the person I am today without the many people and stories that all worked together to shape me.
I am so glad that my children have had their own people beyond me and Compton teaching their Sunday School classes, supervising their church social activities, and introducing them to new skills. That is a crucial part of being church – people of all ages coming together to share their faith with one another.
Most of us at St. Timothy have benefited from the faithful that have come before us. They worked hard to establish the congregation. They taught hundreds of children – planting seeds of faith – over six decades. We don’t even know all the good work being done in this world today because of those seeds being planted.
We also don’t know what the children baptized, educated, and confirmed in this past year will do, but we want to offer them all the healthy spirituality we can while we do have them with us. It is my hope to give them a wide variety of faithful people and their stories as part of their faith formation. To do that we need more volunteers willing to give their time to the children. Are you willing to help with this? Do you have a story you’re willing to share? If so, let me know and we’ll make it happen.
We are a congregation rich in faithful people with amazing stories. I love learning from you and I know the kids will too.
