A Letter from Lindy March 2

Hi Pilgrims,

I am just back from Black Mountain, having attended my first Christmount Council/Board meeting. Although my denomination’s national camp and conference center, I have never been on its campus. Reflecting on why (and owing explanation to fellow (and somewhat suspicious) board members as to my participation, I realized that having served in Florida for sixteen years with its own robust camp and conference, investing in the local resource was much preferred and advocated by my regional structure. Makes sense. And yet, those who serve on this Board/Council hold Christmount with undue reverence as hallowed ground, so I think I’m going to have to prove my worth ;)

Finding my way to this beloved place brought forth many emotions as it resides adjacent to what I claim as sacred space–Flat Rock, NC where my parents lived for 26 years until my dad’s death and my mom’s move to Durham. As many of you know my dad’s ashes rest eternally there, along with Lanny’s and my nephew Kyle–as both my sister and I claim it as holy ground. So like the disciples on the mountain with Jesus, on this sanctuary expanse, I always have the desire to build a tent and stay a while as it holds many pieces of my heart. 

Do you know that feeling as you approach your own holy ground? (I invite you to click on the link and listen) Wherever that may be. The moment the mountains come into view traversing I-40, my whole body sighs in a combination of relief and restoration. From head to toe, a lightness tingles though. Whatever tiredness my mind holds evaporates. No wonder we want to stay, trying to cling to that feeling forever, even as we know that part of its magical mystery is its ephemeral impermanence. 

I think it’s worth us exploring the gift of such spaces and what they might do for us in the days, weeks, months, years ahead. Because we need them for the work before us, the gospel rightly teaches, as we come down our mountains. The work that is (and has been) always before us in our life of following Jesus. 

My sense is we have transfigural space closer than a 3 plus hour drive. I wonder if we understand what is right before us.

grace and peace,

Pastor Lindy

(she/her) why pronouns matter

Art: You are the light of the world.
Alcohol inks on artificial paper, angelina fibers, acrylic paint
and glue on paper towel, acrylic paint on cardstock.
Sue Carroll, art2liftspirits.com