C-13According to the old Broadway song, Summertime living is supposed to be easy.  One long yawn between Memorial Day and Labor Day.  In the church the three big festivals of Christmas, Easter, and Pentecost are behind us; it’s simply ordinary time

Jesus is physically gone – ascended to heaven (Acts 1:6) – leaving the disciples blinking and confused.  Decisions previously made by Jesus are suddenly up for grabs.  Stuff needs to get done.  But who is in charge?  (Sound familiar?)

So Peter – not exactly the picture of reliability and strength during Jesus’ trial –  pipes up and organizes the first church council.  The first order of business: Replace Judas.  So without precedent or bylaws the disciples hold a meeting and elect Mathias.  (Women were at that meeting, by the way – Acts 1:15-26).

As converts respond to the Gospel questions of baptismal practices surface (Acts 2:37-42).  Property and Welfare questions arise (Acts 2:44-47).  Leadership and Authority are called into question (Acts 4).  There’s even a whiff financial panic!  (Acts: 5:1-11).

It’s one really, really long Interim.  Yet notice: the believers continues Jesus’ work:  The hungry are fed, the lame walk, sins are forgiven, bread & wine is shared, and the gospel spreads.  Even during Inteirm.

As the newly elected Council and Call Committee get their sea legs, we give thanks.  As a new Interim-Interim-Interim (who is not me or Pr. Davick!) shepherds this transition, we ask wisdom.  As Central has a chance to imagine a future with hope (while realizing there will also be troubles), we pray for discernment.

Meanwhile, enjoy the summertime.  Which, if the Acts of the Apostles is any guide, will be anything but ordinary.

Welcome to Worship!

Erik Floan, director of Worship, Music, & Arts