I preach it often. Our faith and our lives are not all about us. We are blessed to be a blessing. We are called to make a difference in our families, in our neighborhoods, in our schools, communities, churches, and in the world. We are called beyond our doors and beyond our shores. TLC has modeled that, touching lives in Nepal, Ethiopia, Vietnam, Seattle, and on our beloved Whidbey Island.
I was recently asked to help Trinity Lutheran College in Everett. It is a trying time at the College. President John Reed has resigned and now the Directors and Trustees of the College are leading the institution into uncharted waters. After consulting with our Northwest Washington Synod Bishop, the Board has asked me in a more formal way to assist, lead, and consult the College as their Executive Director. My inclination was to say no.
I preach it often. Our life and faith are not all about us. We need to keep our hearts and minds open to God’s leading. After prayerful thought, I have accepted this position. What does this mean? It means that I will be out of my office more often than not for the next several weeks. In some ways this work will mirror the work that I did at Luther Seminary, only the commute is much easier. I will still be here every Sunday, still preaching, still teaching, still loving and caring for the people of Trinity Lutheran Church.
The calling to Trinity Lutheran College will not last forever. During this time I hope that you will celebrate this outreach as an expression of our service to the larger church. Together we will be touching lives, the lives of students, faculty, staff, and constituents. I also firmly believe that “blessed to be a blessing” this work will benefit our parish and our life together.
I am so very thankful to have the support of our Church Council. I am thankful too for the wonderful staff here at TLC. I want to publicly thank Pastor Elizabeth, Pastor Dennis, Robin, and Karl for their dedication and faithful service.
So keep me in your prayers. My sermon for Sunday is ready and it is going to be much too cold for football. So join me this Sunday as we worship, live, and love together.
Pastor Jim