The Church

Read: 1 Timothy 5 - When the word “church” comes up in conversation, the first thing we think of is a building. We have this mindset that church is a place we go to on Sundays. As we get our family dressed, fight through traffic and get a good seat, it’s easy to lose sight of the fact that we aren’t just going to church; we are the church.

In 1 Timothy 5, Paul describes the church as people dedicated to doing whatever it takes to reach out and help others. We have a responsibility to serve and help others in need as the church. Caring for each other as well as those outside of the church is the quickest way to see Jesus change lives. Too often, we see a need and wait for the pastor or someone on staff to take responsibility. But that’s not the way church works.

Each of us has been given skills, abilities and opportunities to serve. In Timothy’s church, for example, the women ran a widows ministry (1 Timothy 5:16), and elders directed church affairs while others were devoted just to teaching and preaching (1 Timothy 5:17).

In the Bible, church is always a reference to people, not a place. The church is a body of believers that live out the Gospel in their words and actions. The church is at its best when people inside the building take Jesus’ message outside the building and serve those they meet.

As we face the closure of this place known for years as St Mark’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, we know that God has new plans for this place for His Mission in the world. This Sunday we will celebrate the final regular worship service with Pastor Carl Fischer who grew up in St Mark’s and was ordained here. The Messenger will continue through the summer so stay tuned to find out when the official closure service with the Bishop will be. Lutheran Saints in Ministry will be assuming the responsibilities for the building and mission sometime this summer. I hope you find this prayer comforting. If any questions or needs, contact the church office or myself directly.

Blessings, Deacon Nancy Trimble