ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
October 30, 2025
Last night at youth group, as I was walking out with both youth and some adult sponsors, I shouted, “Thanks everyone!” My smart watch heard what I said, and it responded, “You’re welcome!” I had to laugh, because the youth and adult were all engaged in conversation, and I don’t think any of them heard me. But my watch, that had done absolutely nothing worthy of a thank you, took full credit for something. Throughout my ministry, I have known so many people who were deserving of immeasurable gratitude, but when anyone said, “Thank you,” they ignored it; almost as if they were not the focus of the thanks. It wasn’t because their hearing was lacking. It often comes from a deep sense of humility, often trying to distract or distance themselves from the good they’ve done. It is both honorable and incredibly inspiring to witness the remarkable acts of kindness and generosity that uplift and transform lives. I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to all of you who make such a positive difference in the world. While I understand that you may choose to ignore my words or assume they were intended for someone else, I hope a little affirmation sneaks in, for I am deeply moved by the countless small and big acts of compassion and loving hospitality that I see. I feel truly blessed and compelled to say, “Thank you!”
Jesus provided a model of humility that simply takes my breath away. Yet when people exemplify your merciful kindness through a loving act of inclusion, I feel compelled to say, “Thank you!” If they don’t hear it, I trust this prayer to be a conduit by which a word of sacred affirmation falls upon them and the good work they are doing. Amen.
