Bishop's Letter, June 26

My brothers and sisters,
 
We have been in a season of prolonged spiritual calisthenics, strengthening the very body of Christ to lift up the standard of the King of Kings. We never closed the church; just found a fuller online expression as a demonstration of the church’s openness. We never stopped worship services; just extended worship through daily practice of the mid-week Offices. We never stopped studying and exploring the Bible; just reached for seekers to join us. They said to shelter at home; we walked and prayed for our neighbors. They said to order your groceries; you blessed those who delivered them with generous gratuities. Some would say community is found in gathering; we have demonstrated that it is found in serving the least, the last and the lost who are all around us.
 
This is great training for right and just relationships that bear the scrutiny of the crucified Christ whose love exposes the indifference and callousness of human hearts. It has been an extraordinary season of repentance of self-interest, that we all may embrace more fully the lavish love of a God who sacrifices His Son. Many will need a break after the rigors of recent months, so please take the time you need. Then, return with a perspective that is born of God’s Spirit to embrace the season of Pandemic and Protest, knowing that the sign of the cross on our foreheads is the mark of loving—not only that we have been loved but that we may love others in the same way: “A new commandment I give to you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:34-35)
 
I asked Gabby Manriquez Salazar to recommend a summer book for reading on racial justice for members of Christ’s body. She recommended “Beyond Colorblind” by Sarah Shin. InterVarsity has a host of leadership resources to amplify the use of this book in a congregation. Perhaps you can read it and then gather in mission clusters in your deaneries to reflect on it and discuss what it means to lead the body of Christ in these days. Do not be dismayed, "for it is the Father’s good pleasure to give you His Kingdom." (Luke 12:32)

Please rest and ready yourself to “run the race with perseverance” (Phil. 3:13-14).

May the Lord comfort you as He calls you to lead His people to bear witness to Him in the community in which you reside.
 
Your brother and fellow servant,
 
+Keith