Pastor’s Corner (06/20/19)
While living in Prague, Czech Republic I was impressed by all the bridges. Many of them were newer and accommodated heavy traffic. However, the oldest and most well-known bridge is Charles Bridge which was built centuries ago. Due to its age and importance it had been made into a pedestrian bridge that accommodated visitors from all over the world. As a river town it relied heavily on its bridges. Although there was a ferry that crossed the Vltava River regularly, bridges are the most efficient way to cross this body of water. Closer to home, I learned the importance of bridges while living in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Travel between Council Bluffs and Omaha was done by traversing one of three main bridges; the Dodge Street Bridge, the South Omaha Bridge or the North Omaha Bridge. Each bridge connected key locations on both sides of the Missouri River.
As a Mission Coworker I used the image of bridges to describe my ministry. In many ways I felt like a bridge between the Czech Republic and the U.S. I also understood my ministry as a bridge between the U.S. church and the church in the Czech Republic. During our recent flooding we learned the difficulties created when bridges are damaged or destroyed. Not only does it impede travel, it impedes commerce as well. Although Lincoln is not a river city, we are keenly aware of the importance of bridges.
In many ways we here at FCC are a bridge as well. Our Outreach Team regularly invites us to be a bridge that links people in our community to the love of God. We do this with individuals and families, we also do this with ministries serving our community. On the 30th of June we’ll have the opportunity to learn about one of those ministries actually called “The Bridge.” Bonnie Ehlert, the Director of Marketing & Development, will be telling us about this valuable ministry. The Bridge provides a variety of services with a focus on those dealing with substance abuse and mental health issues. As our congregation continues to explore ministry with those particularly struggling with substance abuse, the bridge we build with this agency will be a critical component in that process.
I hope everyone will join us for worship on the 30th of June to learn about this important partnership. God continues to guide us and empowers us to build bridges that enables us to tangibly share God’s love and grace.
In peace and love, Pastor Karen
