Thought From Broad Street (My 'last' Sunday)

The Chapel Window, Broad Street United Methodist Church

Today is my last Sunday leading worship at Broad Street Church before I leave for Appalachian. Our organist played a beautiful hymn for the Offertory that hit home,

                        “Healer of our every ill, light of each tomorrow, give us peace beyond our fear, and hope beyond our sorrow”

           

        Poignant words as I stood there with tears. For all I knew this was church, this was Broad Street. From the pulpit in the magnificent Akron-style sanctuary I felt my calling to ministry, a vocational calling that has shaped the very core of my being. I wondered to a friend today if it would ever be the same? Would church take on new meaning?

            As I journey through life I will never forget the home and calling this magnificent church has offered me. It is a place of hope beyond all sorrow, even when the going is bleak. The beauty of our faith is that we are called to be a people of transition. It is our hope that God would offer us healing, grace, and peace amidst the transition.

            Church may not always be grand; it will certainly not be easy or 24/7 fun. The Gospel makes it clear we each have a cross to bear. We as Stanley Hauerwas mused are a “Cross-Shattered Church” It is my belief that in worship we all bring our crosses, but Christ brings the flame. Maybe that’s partly why I’m Methodist. Church is a covered dish of crosses, and Jesus brings the flame, the Spirit, the comforter and the healer.

            Our recessional hymn rang true today, “Fear not, I am with thee, O be not dismayed, for I am thy God and will STILL give thee aid; I’ll strengthen and help thee and cause thee to stand, upheld by my righteous omnipotent hand.”

            May God truly bless Broad Street Church in the years to come, may God strengthen college students as they transition. Give us peace beyond our fear, and hope for beyond our sorrow!