Congregational Care
— Pastor Valerie Tyson
“If I then, the Lord and the Teacher, washed your feet, you also ought
to wash one another’s feet. For I gave you an example that you also should
do as I did to you.” – John 13:14-15
Several years ago, I packed up my bags and moved to Charleston, South Carolina to pursue my dream of studying the Culinary Arts at Johnson & Wales University.
In the kitchen, whenever the chef called out “demo,” that was our cue to gather around and watch as the chef “demonstrated” a particular skill or cooking method. After watching the demo, we were expected to put into practice what the chef had modeled.
Sometimes when studying the Scriptures, I can almost hear Jesus calling “demo,” bringing the disciples around to pay careful attention to what he was doing.
Remember the Passover meal, for example. Jesus rose, girded himself with a towel, poured water into a basin, and began to wash the disciples’ feet. When he had finished, he explained to them that they should follow his example.
Among the lessons gleaned from Jesus is that we are to serve one another in humility and love.
Over the past several weeks, we have celebrated the lives of several members who have gone to join the Church Triumphant in heaven!
While we celebrate their lives, we also grieve the absence of their presence among us. It is a difficult time for family and friends.
During these challenging days, the influence of Jesus upon our hearts and lives can be visibly seen as the church gathers round in selfless ways to serve. Previous commitments come to a halt as visitations are attended, tables are laid with linens, casseroles are baked and ice fetched to cool beverages. Cards are made by hand and sent to family members.
Grief Share classes are offered by loving servants; phone calls are made. Prayers are offered. A pat on the back is given. All of these gestures are offered in love and comfort. Jesus has provided the “demo,” and disciples through the ages have paid attention.
These are some of the ways we “Serve God” at FVUMC. Thank you, brothers and sisters.
Peace,
Pastor Valerie Tyson, vt****@***mc.org
Pastor of Welcoming & Congregational Care