A Word from Pastor Nathan

Dear Friends:

Laity Sunday still looms large for me. When Diana completed the worship guide drafts, I was in awe of the worship service you desired to create. You are incredible. The entire service was true and meaningful. One of the strengths of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) is its emphasis on mutual ministry. Thank goodness the work of the church is not solely dependent on the pastor! In the history of the Stone-Campbell Movement, which birthed our denomination, mutual edification was a thread uniting all people in the worship, work, and witness of the Church. That same thread continues, and you showcase it every time you go to love and serve from our doorsteps to the ends of the earth. Well done, good and faithful church!

Speaking of Stone—Barton Stone—I recently reviewed a biography and found this quote from Stone, which grabbed my attention: “I made the Bible my constant companion. I honestly, earnestly, and prayerfully sought for the truth, determined to buy it at the sacrifice of everything else.” Stone was wrestling with many questions, theological systems, and creeds.
The Bible is a strange and mysterious book. Want romance? The Bible has it. Want drama? The Bible has no shortage. Terror? That, too. Wonder? Yes. Fear, doubt, uncertainty, hope, and love are all part of this book that has evolved over millennia.

Stone’s words trouble me because I don’t think the Bible participates in an economy of buying and selling truth. And let’s be honest, having the Bible as a constant companion sounds a bit over the pious top. Yet, Stone has an imagination for the Word that transcends printed words bound in a book.
What is this terrible and wonderful book we call the Bible? How do we read it, and how do we take it seriously, which is always more consequential than taking the Bible literally? How does scripture help us narrate the terrible and wonderful parts of our lives?

As we continue our journey of life and faith, I’m curious to hear your experiences with our sacred text. Setup a meeting at the church, or we can go for coffee at Starbucks—my treat—and we’ll share conversation.

Much love,

Nathan