ONE OF MY FAVORITE POEMS is by a seminary professor, the late Gerhard E. Frost. It seemed fitting to share as we begin a new year with hopes and goals to achieve as individuals, a community, and a church.
“SOGGY CEREAL AND TEPID TEA”
When I remember that I am a parent, and think of God as Father,
I recall a special breakfast brought to me in bed.
We awoke early to the sound of hurrying feet.
We wondered what they were up to, our four- and eight-year-olds;
but soon it came–breakfast in bed.
It was an elaborate menu; chilled burnt toast, with peanut butter;
eggs, fried, and chilled, too; soggy cereal, (the milk had been added too soon)
and tepid tea! A horrendous mix.
When they stepped out for a moment
to get something they’d forgotten (heaven forbid!)
my wife whispered, “You’re going to have to eat this, I can’t!”
And I did.
I didn’t eat as a gourmet, for it wasn’t gourmet cooking;
I didn’t even eat as a hungry man for I wasn’t hungry.
I ate as a father because it was made for me;
I was expected to; they had faith in me.
And I ate because it was served on eager feet and with starry eyes.
I think of my poor service to God as teacher, parent,
interpreter of the Good News.
I know that my offerings are soggy, tepid, and unfit,
but my Father receives them and even blesses them–
not because I am good but because He is!
THANK YOU FOR GRACIOUSLY ACCEPTING the gifts I prepare to present to you week after week. I have no
illusions that they are gourmet dishes.
IT IS AN HONOR AND PRIVILEGE TO SERVE WITH YOU in the missions and ministries our Lord has entrusted to us as Messiah Lutheran Church. I enjoy telling friends in distant places stories about your kindness, patience, generosity, and Christian love. I am so proud of you.
WHAT DOES OUR LORD HAVE IN MIND for us in 2018? I do not know, but this I pray: “Lord God,…Give us faith to go out with good courage, not knowing where we go, but only that your hand is leading us and your love supporting us, through Jesus Christ our Lord” (LBW p. 153).
Grace and peace,
Pastor Scott Peterson
Pastor’s Message from the January, 2018 “Messiah Messenger”