We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God. – 2 Corinthians 5:20
Yesterday at WFPC was very awesome, and very emotional, and very exciting. It was our penultimate Sunday, and Rebekah was “on fire” in the pulpit. Also, I led my last Sunday school class and I was surprised (I shouldn’t have been) at how difficult it was for me. “I don’t want this to end,” I squeaked out at the end of class, between tears. I know this is the right time, but I don’t have to like it.
I took a few photographs, because I’m not sure how much freedom I will have to move around August 1. Although maybe walking around with a camera will help me remain focused on something other than the fact that we will be saying goodbye to so much.
Rebekah would say the word I’m looking for to describe her preaching lately would be “unfiltered.” But her leadership style has always been authentic, defined by that fact she is genuine and uncontrived – it has been from Day One. So rather than unfiltered maybe these last few messages have been unrestrained.
Regardless, you will hear a lot of laughter – and maybe a few gasps – from the congregation if you listen (beginning around the 18:00 mark). Nobody seems to be objecting if her presentations have become, how should we say, a little less concerned with the risk of offending the sensibilities of any congregants.
Besides, this week’s message was about the responsibility we all have to be ambassadors for Jesus, “as though God were making his appeal through us.”
Authenticity is our most powerful witness!
I have said this before, and it bears repeating (a lot): The most powerful, compelling, persuasive, effective witness any one of us can offer is authenticity. People can tell if we are making stuff up, if we are just repeating what we’ve been told to believe, if we’re spouting some formula – or if we really are people who trust in God. It is our authenticity, our genuineness, our honesty that communicates. It is the truth that sets not only us, but others, free.
Rebekah has all that, and she has it in spades.
Listen to the message, then plan to either show up or tune in next week. You will be glad that you did. – DEREK
Here is my photo gallery from worship:
I’m sure that you & Rebekah have mixed emotions about ending this chapter of your life.
Will Rebekah be able to stay on as a member of the church? At FPC a pastor leaving their position must ‘break’ their relationship with the church & not attend for a period of time.
I wish you both the best of luck!!!
We will not be involved with the church. Can’t leave and not leave at the same time!
We are excited to see what God has in mind for WFPC going forward.
As for us, we will find a church home to anchor at, then see how retirement unfolds.