A Letter from Lindy March 3

Pilgrims,

 I’ve been wrestling this week with Jesus’ question to the disciples from our gospel text for Sunday. After exploring the word on the street about who people think he is, he turns and asks Peter, “and who do you say that I am?” Jesus is wondering if this band of disciples, personified in Peter, can articulate their understanding of what they have not only witnessed, but participated in, and translate the experience and teaching into a statement of faith. I wonder how we might do with Jesus’ mid-stride pop quiz?

 If someone turned to us and asked us why we believed in Jesus, what would you say? How would you articulate your understanding of Jesus within our triune divine expression? Why do we do this thing called church? As one studies the decline in church participation over the years, it begs the question as to whether we are hesitant to do so. As one who works hard to create sacred space to welcome “whoever you are and wherever you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here!” I wonder if the care we offer for those who do not know, those who are not ready, those who are curious but uncommitted, have we somehow ceded our conviction of faith? Is there not a way, to draw from Henri Nouwen, to claim and express identity while also welcoming the stranger into your home. He suggests that without sharing who you are, it is hard for the guest you have invited in to move from stranger to friend.

 Many of the ways I believe Pilgrim articulates its faith is through its actions, as I have heard some remark. Watching Felix drag our very full baskets of canned goods out to the Little Free Pantry from Sundays collection proved just how intently we try to be Jesus’ hands that feed the hungry. I pray we continue for the weeks of Lent (and beyond) to fill those shelves for those in need.

 As noted below, partnering with our sister congregation Mount Calvary by bringing proteins the week of March 16-23, extends Jesus’ reach even further. And by joining together in Crop Walk on March 24, we literally become Jesus’ feet working to eradicate food insecurity, not only in Durham, but around the world. I pray you will sign up to walk, however you can, so that Pilgrim continues to live its faith.

 Along the way, we’ll talk, so that not only our actions, but the words of our mouths and the meditations of our hearts be acceptable to God, our rock and redeemer.

 
may it be so,
 
Pastor Lindy

(she/her) why pronouns matter