March 2007
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We have so
many dedicated members at Mindekirken. A lot of
people are very active, and they contribute to our church in many different
ways. Another thing I have noticed is that Americans work very hard - generally
harder than Europeans, I think. Some persons even have several jobs, in addition
to taking care of their family, plus being active in their church and society. Of
course our schedules differ a lot as we go through various stages in our lives.
But some of us just need to hear these important questions: Do you get enough
rest? Is there a good balance between activity and breaks in your life? Do you
take some time just to live, to breathe and to feel that you exist? When we read
the gospels, it becomes obvious to us that being a disciple also can be a busy
life. Once Jesus sent his disciples out two by two, to minister and preach his
word. They went with confidence, and they did not spare themselves. Mark tells
us, they
went out and preached that people should repent. They drove out many demons and
anointed many sick people with oil and healed them (6:12-13).
Their days
were filled with duties. Then, because so many people were coming and going that
they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, “Come with me by
yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest (Mark 6:31). Jesus cares for his disciples. As the good
Shepherd, he cares for his flock. Life is more
than work and duties. One good place to “recharge our batteries,” or say,
the very best place, is our Sunday service. The result of the Natural Church
Development survey we did in our church recently clearly shows that people
belonging to Mindekirken really love to come together on Sundays. In fact, this
is our highest value as a congregation! Let us continue to come together with
our brothers and sisters in Christ, and celebrate his resurrection every Sunday
morning! In addition,
I am convinced that we as a church family need some small groups where we can
come closer together and get to know one another more personally. The best is to
use our homes for such groups, but there are of course other possibilities. In
these groups we can share, we can pray for and with each other, study the Bible
and have a conversation about it. I have experienced so many times in the quiet
mood of a Bible study group that these are moments for rest and fulfillment.
We are in
March, the month of Lent. Perhaps this is the right time to encourage ourselves
and each other to look for a better balance between activity and rest in our
lives. Jesus is our teacher and Master also in this topic. Luke lets us know, But
Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed (5:16). If He needed that solitude, then what about us?
Let us follow our Master’s good example. It will make us more whole persons! To spend a
few minutes every day using a booklet like “Christ in Our Home” (a Lutheran
devotional, available for members in Mindekirken) is one way to do it. Have a
blessed Lent!
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The Norwegian Lutheran Memorial Church · 924 E. 21st St, Minneapolis, MN 55404-2952 · (612)874-0716 |