Reverend Kristine A JohnsonRector’s
Reflection

June 2020

“So let us not grow weary in doing what is right, for we will reap at harvest time, if we do not give up. So then, whenever we have an opportunity, let us work for the good of all, and especially for those of the family of faith.” (Galatians 6:9-10)

We are entering the long, green season of the church year – the season after Pentecost that stretches until the first Sunday of Advent. It is often called “Ordinary Time,” although this year it is far from ordinary! Normally in this season we are neither feasting nor fasting. That we find ourselves fasting from worshipping in person in our church makes this year’s ordinary time extraordinary. We may wish it were not so; undoubtedly many of you, like me, long for life to feel more ordinary.

The words of Paul to the Galatians are especially meaningful for us in these days. “Let us not grow weary in doing what is right.” Friends, it is natural to be weary from time to time. But I hope we do not grow weary. I hope and trust that we are growing stronger in faith, more resilient, more connected, more devoted to following Jesus and finding ways to care for our neighbors.

In my April reflection, I said I felt like we were planting a virtual garden together. Two months later, we are seeing what we planted early grow and bear fruit, even while we are still planting. Our garden contains both annuals and perennials – things we are doing for a season, and things that will enrich our communal life for years to come. Both need tending to thrive. So let us continue to plant, and to care for what we are planting.

Planting and harvesting are ordinary tasks. May tending to them ground us in this extraordinary season.

Faithfully,
Kristine+