Dear St. Lukers,
What a wonderful night of community and connection we shared at the Fall Family Fun Night, created and led by our CDC and Children’s Ministry staff! There was something for everyone—food, fellowship, and fun—as more than 700 people wandered through Trunk-or-Treat Lane, bounced through the inflatables, and explored the pumpkin patch (welcome home, pumpkins!).
At the same time, soccer practices were happening with two of our community partners, so people were everywhere! When I left, cars were even parked all around the cross. It was quite a sight to behold. My deep thanks to all our staff, volunteers, and vendors who worked so hard to make this such a lovely event for our families and neighbors.
As I thought about the evening, I couldn’t help but connect it to our recent weeks of worship. We’ve been exploring the new vision statement of the United Methodist Church, focusing on how followers of Jesus Christ make a difference in the world as they Love Boldly and Serve Joyfully.
Looking over the crowd last night, I was struck by the beauty of the diversity before me—families of all kinds, people with different skin colors, languages, and ages—all mingling together, laughing, sharing food, and being one community. When we talk at St. Luke’s about “revealing the Kingdom of God,” that’s exactly what we witnessed. It was a glimpse of God’s Kingdom on earth as it is in heaven.
There were plenty of differences, but the divisions that so often dominate our culture didn’t matter. Not when there were children in costumes, candy being shared, and bounce houses to slide down. All that mattered was love—bold love that made room for everyone.
And the joyful service of our volunteers and staff? Even when candy ran low, the last slice of pizza was served, or parking spots became scarce—no one was angry, frustrated, or selfish. The music of bold love and joyful service filled the air through laughter and smiles, leaving no room for frustration or irritation. Just pure joy flowing from a moment where strangers became community and love was the only thing big enough to contain it all.
This week, we’ll continue exploring what it means to Serve Joyfully. Over the last few weeks, through the stories of Elisha, we’ve learned that to serve joyfully means to Pick Up the Cloak, Dig Anyway, and Pour It Out—or, said another way: step up, keep going, and offer what you have.
This Sunday, we’ll discover that serving joyfully also means Making Room for Joy—creating space in our lives for whatever or whomever God might bring our way. As you prepare your hearts for worship, I encourage you to read 2 Kings 4:8–17, the story of the Shunammite woman who builds a room for Elisha. Listen to our Your Week with St. Luke’s podcast featuring Dr. Ryan Bonfiglio as we explore this rich story together. And in your own prayer time this week, consider: Who might God be calling you to make room for? Who is it that I am continually encountering that God maybe wants me to create space for in my life or heart to serve?
On a personal note, John and I want to share our thanks for your beautiful support while we were present with John’s sister, Amy, as she passed onto her resurrection. We felt all of the prayers and support holding us up during this time and are grateful for the time you gave us to be with John’s family.
See you Sunday because God has already made a space just for U!
With love and gratitude, Jenn
