Dear First Pres,

   Have you noticed that the Deeper Still sermon series is all about spiritual disciplines? The two explored already are soaking in scripture and keeping a sabbath. This Sunday, we’ll explore the discipline of prayer. What do you think of when you think of spiritual disciplines? I think back to a Spiritual Formation Conference years ago when I heard someone (I think it was Larry Crabb) say that practicing spiritual disciplines was like tending your sail. We can’t choose when and where the wind of the Spirit will blow, but we can tend our sail so that we are ready when it does.  

   Let me invite you to take a good look at your spiritual sail. What sort of mending does it need? Where and why is it ripped, torn, or frayed? What new disciplines might you consider taking up this season to tend your sail? What old ones need to be resumed? We’ll be exploring one each week until Pastor Jeremy returns in September. I hope you’ll seize the opportunity that this Deeper Still series gives to tend your sail. 

   Let me also share with you what the Renovare website says about spiritual disciplines. “... In the same way a runner is equipped to compete in a marathon by the discipline of physical training, so training through spiritual disciplines frees us to live each day with the ‘easy yoke’ and ‘light burden’ Jesus spoke of (Matt 11:30). Disciplines do not earn us favor with God or measure spiritual success. They are exercises which equip us to live fully and freely in the present reality of God — and God works with us, giving us grace as we learn and grow.” No extra credit or points, just the freedom and equipping to live fully and freely. Doesn’t that sound refreshing? 

   Lastly friends, let me invite you to jump in to the remaining all church, summer FUN events. They’re all about providing an opportunity to make new connections or to reconnect. Have you noticed there is an emphasis on dining together? First there was the Picnic in June. This Sunday we’re Eating Downtown after church together. Not all of us at one place, but I hope many of us at many places. It’s such an easy way to spend time with one another AND support local businesses. Have you signed up yet? Let me put the link right here in case you aren’t planning to scroll down. 

   While the pastor’s away, we want to be tending our sails. While the pastor’s away, we want to be connecting and reconnecting. While the pastor’s away, he and we get to go Deeper Still.

 

Grace & Peace, 

Terry Jaurena