I'm sad today. No...not because the Patriots lost on Sunday. That, of course, stunk, but my life's priorities are in enough of a proper order that I recognize the difference between a game and something important. No, I'm sad today because I simply miss a good friend and colleague.
For the last 15 months I have had the real joy of working alongside of an amazingly gifted and passionate pastor, who during that 15 month span, has become a good friend. A really good friend. Rev. Judy McCullough came to help our congregation through a time of transition. She poured herself into us, embraced us, and allowed us to embrace her back. She has helped to bring us to a great place of health and vision for ministry. The two of us had many laughs together, and deep, rich conversations. Her wisdom and discernment found the perfect balance between grace and firmness. Although her time with us only ended a couple of days ago, I miss her already.
And yet in my sadness, I find myself with a deep sense of thanksgiving to God. Judy truly was a blessing from God; a gift to me and to our congregation. And I am so thankful for that gift. And in that thanksgiving, I find my hope to "just move on". If God has been that good, won't he continue to be? Won't the plans for the future be just as great, if not better?
The newly-freed Hebrew slaves turned on God when they found themselves pinched between the waters of the Red Sea and the wheels of Pharoah's chariots. Rather than cultivating that deep sense of thanksgiving for the mighty ways in which he freed them, they allowed their fear to trump their faith. Thanksgiving for what God has done, gives us the strength to replace fear with faith, and "just move on" (God's words...not mine...Exodus 14:15).
I'm sad today. I miss Judy. But I'm ready to just move on, with thanksgiving in my heart and on my lips, proclaiming the goodness of God, and thereby finding my hope in His plans for the future.
What if the ashes didn't go away?
