Rev. Rob Kinnear

Keeping in Touch - February 2015

2015-01-30T09:23:00.000-06:00

Lenten Transitions/Invitations:
What Jesus' Sacrifice Means in My Life

As Salem transitions from Epiphany into Lent and possibly from one pastoral leadership to another, two very important and seemingly opposite events occur in the Liturgical year. February 14-15 we commemorate the "Transfiguration of our Lord," a miraculous event recorded in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. Jesus becomes radiant upon a mountain, witnessed by three of his disciples, and is joined by Moses and Elijah. He is called "Son" by a voice in the sky, assumed to be God the Father as at his baptism. The event seems to reveal Jesus as the connecting point, a bridge between heaven and earth, both human and divine.

Three days later, February 18, Ash Wednesday and the 40 days of Lent lead to the very real suffering of our Lord. We humble ourselves with a mark of ashes, reminded "From dust you came and to dust you shall return." We reflect upon our sinful condition and need of a Savior who bridges earth and heaven, one who sets aside His glory and enters the human condition. Lenten customs of giving up foods and pleasures are sometimes practiced as a symbol of Jesus' 40-day temptation in the wilderness, where he struggled with the devil and did not eat. Today we also find it meaningful to add something during Lent: acts of charity, care, Bible study or devotion.

This year's 7pm midweek Lenten worship series falls on February 25, March 4, 11, 18, and 25 - five Wednesdays between Ash Wednesday and Holy Week. Simple Soup Suppers are served before worship for fellowship and a Bible study will be offered by our Diakonia graduates. With an anticipated Pastoral transition, Salem leaders are offering an opportunity for lay speakers to choose one of these five Wednesdays to reflect upon what Jesus' sacrifice means to them, about a six to ten minute reflection within the familiar liturgical setting of Holden Evening Prayer. The Faith Talks during last fall's stewardship emphasis were well-presented and well-received. If you are interested in being one of the five lay speakers, please contact Carla Vanatta on behalf of the Worship and Executive Committees by February 10.

Life is full of "highs and lows"...help us mark the highs and lows of Jesus' life during the season ahead, praying that we will be "transfigured" by the Holy Spirit.

Blessings,
Carla Vanatta, Associate in Ministry

Keeping in Touch - January 2015

2015-01-01T14:00:00.000-06:00

The Power of Togetherness -

...so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.
(Romans 12:5)

An American veteran who was part of the D-Day invasion described meeting Winston Churchill prior to the launch of that bloody offensive against the forces of Naziism. He said D-Day was the most frightening experience of his life. "In fact," he said, "I don't think some of us would have been able to do what we did if it weren't for a visit we got just before we crossed the English Channel." That visit was from Churchill. He rode up in a jeep, got out, and mingled with the troops. "He shook hands with us and even hugged some of us," the veteran recalled. "He spoke of his own wartime experience and identified with our emotions. Then, he stood up in his jeep and gave a five-minute speech. He spoke the whole time with tears in his eyes."

Here's what Churchill said: "Gentlemen, I know you are afraid. I remember being afraid when I was a soldier. I had the privilege of defending my country...through dark days when we didn't know whether we would accomplish what we had been given to do. But this is your moment. We are counting on you to rise to the occasion and achieve everything you have set out to do. The fate of the free world rests on your shoulders. May this be your finest hour."

The veteran said, "Needless to say, our group of frightened soldiers turned into a band of men who were ready to take on anybody." Togetherness is a powerful thing when you put it into practice!

I found the above in my email recently. It speaks of a day long ago that changed the flow of history for the world. The writer aptly describes the value of togetherness of which St. Paul speaks in Romans 12. As Salem embarks into 2015 let us seek the Spirit's power to bind us together so that as the Body of Christ we can unite in mission for the sake of the world that our Lord loves so deeply.

A blessed 2015 be ours,
Pr. Rob

Keeping in Touch - December 2014

2014-11-28T07:48:00.003-06:00

"Keeping in touch" is the message of the following piece from early in the last century. Though antiquated in sound, it tells the timeless tale of Advent and Christmas. It is the story of waiting in hope and then celebrating the gift that has been sent. "Living Christ's Love" is an invitation to continue the sharing of Jesus' love - "His love still lights the world, through us."

Pastor Rob

At the Sign of the Christmas Tree
Pauline Frances Clamp
St. Nicholas Magazine, c. 1908

"Ho, for the ancient hostelry
Whose generous doors swing wide and free!
Whose guests, when the first snow crystals fall,
Gather within its spacious hall
From north and from south, and from west to east,
Big folks down to the very least,
Thronging, far as the eye can see,
To lodge at The Sign of the Christmas Tree.
The guests are known by their curious wiles,
Mysterious nods, and becks, and smiles;
There are secrets flying about by scores,
Smothered laughs behind fast-closed doors;
There's a noise of hammers, and tink of bells,
And whispered 'Hushes,' and soft 'Don't tells.'
Oh, a wonderful place for mystery
In the ancient Inn of the Christmas Tree!
There guests sit apart, and stitch and sew
On woven linen as white as snow;
Flowers bloom bright on silken fields,
And fresh surprises each moment yields.
And the room where they sit is like a dream,
Where scarlet berries of holly gleam;
And over the lintel, in gold, is wrought
Its beautiful name of 'Loving Thought.'
And Peggy, and polly, and Pete, and Prue,
With a dear little girl that looks like you,
A red-haired lass, and a blue-eyed lad,
Grandmother dear, and Mother, and Dad,
And hundreds of others all over the land,
Are working away with heart and hand,
Snipping and clipping, where none may see,
At the Merry Sign of the Christmas Tree.
But oh, dear people who long have been
Guests 'neath the roof of this pleasant inn,
Bethink, there are those who do not belong
To the work and fun, to the cheer and song!
Empty-handed and wistful-eyed,
They are out in the cold this Christmas-tide.
Tie up your parcels with ribbon gay;
Sprig them with green in the good old way;
Then, from your riches, where need is seen
Fill up the lives that are bare and lean.
So shall a gracious blessing be
Called down on The Sign of the Christmas Tree."

Keeping in Touch - November 2014

2014-10-30T11:48:00.002-05:00

The Round About Way

The options in my GPS system are: "The Shortest Route," "The Fastest Route," or "The Easiest Route." I always have to choose.

As we continue our journey of transition, I'm sure you recognize that none of these 3 choices are in play. Our time together has been "The Long Route," or "The Round About Way." During our time together, I've called to memory the fact that God's people are always in transition and most often that means getting where we are going - congregationally - by "The Round About Way." For example, when God via Moses brought the Israelites out of bondage, it took a relatively short time for God to accomplish this feat. Then, they were on the way to the Promised Land. God didn't lead them by the shortest, fastest, or easiest route. Though the distance between Egypt and Canaan could have been covered in a few weeks, it took a much longer time. Apparently, God thought it necessary for the Israelites to take "The Round About Way." It would appear that we are in a similar position. Salem and God are walking "The Round About Way" to reach the goal of acquiring a new resident pastor.

Now Moses had an idea of how long the trip would take. The Hebrew children had their idea of how long the trek to Canaan Land should take. When the time passed expectations, the Hebrews complained and wanted to go back to Egypt. God answered their complaints, but the journey didn't become shorter. Instead of a few weeks, "The Round About Way" took 40 years. When Israel was ready, in God's assessment, they walked through the Jordan and began their new life in the land of Milk and Honey.

Salem has an idea of how long we should wait for a new resident pastor, I have an idea, the bishop and staff along with the Call Committee have their idea of the timetable. Nonetheless, we shall reach the promised land according to God's timing. Therefore, by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let us trust that God is for us and the peace of God which is beyond all human understanding will keep our hearts and minds safe in Christ Jesus, as we continue "The Round About Way."

God will bless us in due time. Peace and all Good,

Pastor Rob

Keeping in Touch - September 2014

2014-08-29T09:35:00.000-05:00

"That makes no sense - no sense at all!"

I find those words come to mind when I try to figure out technical instructions. Not only there, but at many points in life I say or think, "That makes no sense - no sense at all!"

As human creatures, we like things to make sense and we try to make sense of what we don't understand. As followers of Christ, one of the things that we'd like to make sense of is "the Cross."

Learning time for adults, during the Christian Education hour between worship services, we will be considering another segment of the "Making Sense" series written by David Lose, one of the professors at the Luther Seminary ELCA in St. Paul, MN.

I invite you to join me in Chapel Lounge during Sunday School (9:15am) Sundays in September and October, beginning September 21. Pr. Lose shares with us and challenges us to find the Biblical meaning of and the importance that the Cross of Jesus Christ holds for our lives.

Oh yes, this will truly be a learning time for all of us - no previous experience with Biblical interpretation required and it isn't necessary to have a deep knowledge of Theology to be a particiapant in the consideration of "Making Sense of the Cross."

Blessings,

Pr. Rob

Keeping in Touch - August 2014

2014-07-29T11:42:00.000-05:00

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

By now you should have received the letter regarding the recent pastoral candidate's decision to withdraw his name from the call process to Sycamore. Certainly this news is not what Salem members had expected. Pastor Jeff Clements from the Northern Illinois Synod's Office attended worship at Salem on July 20 and was available to answer questions from congregation members. He offered assurance that the staff at the NIS office is working quickly to find candidates for the call committee to consider. All of the members of the call committee are committed to their part in the call process and Pastor Rob Kinnear will continue as our interim leader.

The mission we all share as disciples of Christ continues at Salem: plans for a fun Rally Day are underway, leaders in the Confirmation program have met to ensure programming continues, our Sunday School Superintendent is working hard to promote excitement for our youngsters, Salem's Choirs and Puppet Ministry will begin to meet again soon. Volunteers continue to mow Salem's lawn, tend the flowerbeds, and keep the building in good repair. Congregation members bake bread for communion and offer food or service for funerals. Other members continue to do good work with Salem's Food Pantry as a community outreach. The Monthly Morning Ministry and GEMS groups continue to meet and share fellowship. I'm sure I've missed other examples of discipleship that is abounding at Salem. Our congregation is alive and members are living Christ's love!

So while the wait for a new resident pastor continues, if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact any council member: Reed Allison, Linda Butler, Alice Freier, Claudia Hoffman, Lisa Hohlfeld, Heather Jackson, Pastor Rob Kinnear, Judy Milroy, Ken Reinhardt, Bev Riebe, Jenny Ruff, Larry Schlawin, Adam Swedberg, or Carla Vanatta.

In Christ,

Jenny Ruff, President
Salem Congregational Council

Keeping in Touch - July 2014

2014-06-27T08:18:00.002-05:00

A Special Congregational Meeting will be held on Wednesday, July 2, 2014 for the purpose of voting on issuing a call to a candidate for the position of resident Pastor of Salem.

The Special Congregational Meeting will start promptly at 6:45pm in Fellowship Hall. The Pastor and spouse will be introduced. Following a time of devotion and dialogue with the Pastor, the congregation will vote on whether to issue a call to this pastor.

Preceding the meeting, there will be a meal at 6pm. The entree and beverages will be provided. Members of the congregation are asked to bring a side dish or dessert to share.

All voting members of Salem are strongly encouraged to attend this important meeting on Wednesday, July 2.

All members of Salem Lutheran Church should have received a letter in the mail concerning the Special Congregational Meeting.

Keeping in Touch - June 2014

2014-05-29T11:36:00.001-05:00

As I write to you, I trust that you are, as I am, thankful for the beauty of late spring and early summer. There seems always to be a renewal of one's sense of life and being in the in-between-seasons time of transition.

The spiritual life and well-being of a disciple is worth care and attention. Human spirit and "Spirit" contact can be imperceptible or vivid in intensity. One is able to develop deeper discernment of the spiritual guidance and presence Jesus promised to his followers in various ways.

One such way is to actively surrender, extend willingness, and give attentiveness to the Spirit's leading. This receptivity grows through worship and prayer. One additional factor for our "spirit's" growth can be found in participating in a service of healing during worship. Salem's Worship Committee will be offering periodic opportunities for members to be a part of healing services. The first of these offerings for 2014 will be June 29 at our two Sunday morning worship times. Those present will have an opportunity to come to the altar for anointing, laying on of hands, and prayer. A prayer station offering candle lighting and silent petition will be available. Each worshipper may partake of both prayer offered for them at the altar and personal offering of prayer at the candle-lighting area. I very much look forward to sharing this service of petition, praise, and thanksgiving with our faith community.

Come, let's worship the Lord together.

In Christ's name,
Pr. Rob

Keeping in Touch - May 2014

2014-04-26T15:11:00.001-05:00

"Life Changing!" That designation is an advertising standard. Many people are sold by just those words. I hesitate to use them, but the Team Development Training that has been offered for Salem members these past weeks has "Life Changing!" potential. As of this writing, two identical sessions have been held so as to accommodate the variety of schedules with which we live. In the closing week of April, there will have been a concluding session in which learners from the first two sessions experienced the practical application of the information offered. I can say without hesitation that the Team Development Training has been and, I trust, will continue to be "Life Changing!" as Salem continues work in the mission of "Living Christ's Love."

Blessed renewal in this Resurrection Season,
Pr. Rob

Keeping in Touch - April 2014

2014-03-27T13:13:00.000-05:00

I want to encourage all Salem disciples in leadership to read the announcement below and prayerfully consider being a part of a workshop on 4/6 and then be in attendance at the follow-up seminar on 4/27. We are being given a wonderful opportunity to further develop Salem's ministry in mission.

Salem's Congregation Council is offering team development and team building training for all individuals, committees, and other groups at Salem.

These trainings are for all of Salem's disciples - whether a member of a committee, work group, confirmation guide, Sunday school teacher, or serve in any way to support Salem's programs and/or outreach as we do our best to "Live Christ's Love."

Team development, function, and responsibilities will be the focus of the trainings from 6-9pm on Monday, March 31 and 1-4pm on Sunday, April 6. These dates will be the same training so choose the one most convenient for you to help to understand what makes a team effective in accomplishing its goals.

You are also urged to attend a team building workshop on Sunday, April 27, from 2-5pm. This session is specifically designed to help the discipleship teams put into practice and build on the information learned in the first sessions.

These sessions will be led by Jim Dykehouse, who has done many of these trainings for the Illinois Education Association, for whom he works. Jim provided team training to help our current Call Committee.

Please come, enjoy, and learn how we, as disciples at Salem might be able to function more effectively as we reach out to others and spread the Good News of Christ's love.

Keeping in Touch - February 2014

2014-01-29T10:43:00.000-06:00

"I'd Do It All Over Again!"
Saturday, February 8
Sunday, February 9

Couples who have been married five years or longer are invited to renew their wedding vows at one of the three services the weekend of February 8-9. To reserve your place in this celebration of Valentine's Day and marriage, please return/email the information (names, date of marriage, service you will be attending) to the church office by February 2.

Keeping in Touch - January 2014

2013-12-29T16:39:00.001-06:00

"And when they saw him they presented gifts..."

Saturday, January 4 and Sunday, January 5, 2014 the worship will celebrate the Epiphany of our Lord (January 6). Salem members are invited to bring gifts of new clothing for the children of Hope Haven homeless shelter. These gifts will be presented at the manger in honor of the "newborn king."

The Magi found Jesus with his mother and father in a place other than their home. There they made their offering of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Our gifts will honor Jesus, like those of the Wise Men, and will provide warmth and comfort to a child whom Christ sees as a brother/sister. As the Lord taught us, we serve Him when we care for others: "When you do it to one of the least of my family, you do it to me."

Please help the light of the King shine brightly through Salem by sharing in this gift presentation at one of the worship opportunities - Saturday evening at 5pm and Sunday morning at 8 and 10:30am.

Another opportunity for sharing with others will be offered on Saturday and Sunday, February 8-9, 2014. The Worship Committee invites all couples married 5 years or longer to participate in the renewal of their wedding vows during the services on that weekend. The office will make reservation sheets available so that you can tell us the date of your marriage, and which service you will be attending. Once we have your reservation information, we will forward to you the specifics of the service. Many people have found it to be very meaningful to express a continuing commitment to the covenant of marriage. Since February 8-9 is close to Valentine's Day, the vow renewal can be the gift of saying: "I'd do it all over again!"

I, along with the rest of Salem's staff, pray that 2014 will bring you the best of God's blessings.

In Christ's name,

Pr. Rob

Keeping in Touch - December 2013

2013-12-01T08:07:00.003-06:00

The darkness comes sooner each day. The light is somewhat less bright and the fields that were green with life are now still and the harvest is in.

Each year when I experience this I'm reminded of the Children of Promise who longed for and hoped that the light of Messiah would appear while they had life and breath. As a child, that awareness came in the form of longing for and being restless until there would be the signs of light and life of spring and summer once again. As I've grown older, the hope has become more for the beauty of light to chase away the sadness of life's waning.

It is Advent and the anticipation of Christmas is building. Isn't it amazing that just as we reach the shortest day/longest night of darkness in the year, the warmth and light of holiday decorations make the world look bright and often shiny and new? Then comes the celebration of Christmas. The light is beginning to return, our hope is renewed so that we can continue the journey toward yet another spring with its renewal of life. Jesus is born. Messiah, we Christians believe, has arrived. He comes to us as a baby like we were when we entered this world.

Once again, I'm putting my trust in the promise of this Christmas story. The story that will be told millions of times around the world once more is the good news that God in Jesus has comes to us, to be with us, to touch us with a love so wide-spreading, that all people, all creatures and plants are invited to believe that the one who made us will end the darkness and will shine with all the glory of heaven. This will be done because our Creator loves us and will not know peace until we are united in God's love once more.

Jesus Christ is born! So the angels sang. Christ is born the shepherds tell all who will listen! Christ is born to Mary and we will be free. Come and worship, come and celebrate this miracle of light and life, come and open the gift that Salem receives once more. Come, meet and greet the Lord of life anew.

His Love Still Lights the World, Happy Christmas,
Pr. Rob

Keeping in Touch - November 2013

2013-10-27T14:09:00.000-05:00

I was touched by a story in the Hand in Hand Newsletter from an earlier part of this year. This story served as a reminder that we have a sister congregation in Tanzania. Likewise, we hear about Salem's presence in the world through ELCA churchwide ministries.

Forty children recently received life-changing surgeries for crippling deformities or burns at the Arusha Lutheran Medical Centre in Tanzania - and that was just one week! The ability to perform that many operations is just one of the benefits of the expanded training and program development at the center.

Your contributions allow ELCA missionaries Dr. Mark and Linda Jacobson to be a part of this important growth. "What an exciting time of great thanksgiving this is for our ministries in Tanzania," they say.

"Our training efforts to address the huge shortfall of healthcare professionals have leaped ahead. In the last few months we have been registered as a training center and our assistant medical officer training program has been accredited." Also, they add, "We have taken the final steps toward opening our own nursing college in February 2013!"

The center has also become an international training center for African surgeons to study laparoscopic surgery and join the global movement to this video surgical care.

"These are some of the programs and ministries that you have been supporting so generously. We have great opportunities to serve and to share together in these ministries and outreach," Mark and Linda say.

You are a blessing far beyond Sycamore.

With you in Christ's service,

Pastor Rob

Keeping in Touch - October 2013

2013-09-28T06:36:00.000-05:00

On the Sundays of November and several weeks of December Salem is offering an Adult Bible Study group between the 8am and 10:30am worship hours. This will be a group experience of discovery in terms of the connection between disciples of the 1st century Christian Church and 21st century disciples of Jesus in U.S. American culture. Students will be offered the gift of looking at daily life through the lens of the Book of Hebrews. YOU are invited to share scripture study, conversation, coffee, and prayer with brothers and sisters in the Faith Community of Salem.

Watch for further information and class sign-up sheets in the Narthex Welcome Center during the month of October.

This offering will be a life-giving encounter with the living Word as found in the New Testament writings from the developing Church.

May you be nourished in your faith.

Blessings in Christ,
Pr. Rob

Keeping in Touch - September 2013

2013-08-31T05:21:00.003-05:00

I wanted to share the following story with you as an assurance that God still cares for God's people.

Joy and peace in Christ,
Pr. Rob

The Joy of Giving: A Story

Hope Lutheran Church had a difficult decision to make. The church's roof desperately needed to be replaced. Every time it rained, they discovered a new place where the roof was leaking. It simply couldn't wait any longer. Although the congregation had enough money in its savings account to pay for the project, that money was designated for mission support through the larger church. At the special congregational meeting that had been called to make a decision, the congregation was divided. Some members of the congregation strongly felt that they should use that money to pay for the new roof. Other members of the congregation strongly felt the money should be used according to its original purpose and given beyond the walls of the congregation to support the mission of the larger church. The congregation appeared to be at a stalemate. As the president of the congregation was getting ready to call for the vote, an older disciple in the congregation rose from his seat and approached the microphone. The congregation listened carefully as this respected saint began to speak. "All my life this church has taught me that we give to God first and that God will take care of the rest. And all my life, my wife and I have tried to do just that. We've never been rich, but we've always had what we've needed to get by. I might be wrong, but it seems to me that if we use the money we have to support God's mission in the world, that God will probably take care of the roof." He then sat down. The president called for the vote. The congregation voted to use the money for mission and to hold off on the roof until enough pledges had come in to pay for it. The very next Sunday, the pastor announced with joy-filled delight that in just seven days more than enough pledges had come in to replace the roof. God's mission grew. The roof got replaced. God had provided. And, the congregation experienced once again the deepest joy of giving! Have you experienced the joy of giving lately? Give to God first. God will take care of the rest.

From St. John's Lutheran Church - The Eagle Newsletter Volume 2013

Keeping in Touch - August 2013

2013-07-29T13:42:00.000-05:00

I'm excited to share with you the congregational events that are planned for the month of September, 2013. Please accept this invitation to be a part of the celebration.

September Salem Celebrations:

August 31/September 1 - Blessing of Daily Labor. Come to church in your work clothes and bring a symbol of your work to be blessed.

September 7/8 - Rally Day Weekend/Spirit Sunday (theme: "God's Work: Our Hands"). Blessing of hands, 9:15 refreshments, and registration for fall programs of Sunday school, confirmation, choirs, bells, and puppets.

September 15 - 9:15 Sunday reception for confirmands. 10:30 confirmation service.

September 21/22 - Bring Your Bible to Church Weekend. 10:30 Bible presentation to 3rd graders and 3-year-olds. Possible Bible workshop (TBA).

September 28/29 - St. Michael and All Angels, Home Communion. Bring an angel to worship.

I encourage you to put these calendar events on your family calendar and plan to be a part of the building up of the saints at Salem. Help strengthen our faith community for the mission work of "Living Christ's Love."

Blessings of Renewal be yours in Christ,
Pr. Rob

Keeping in Touch - July 2013

2013-06-29T16:31:00.002-05:00

As I write to you, I trust that you are, as I am, thankful for the beauty of late spring and early summer. There seems always to be a renewal of one's sense of life and being in the in-between-seasons time or transition.

The spiritual life and well-being of a disciple is worth care and attention. Human spirit and "Spirit" contact can be imperceptible or vivid in intensity. One is able to develop deeper discernment of the spiritual guidance and presence Jesus promised to his followers in various ways.

One such way is to actively surrender, extend willingness, and give attentiveness to the Spirit's leading. This receptivity grows through worship and prayer. One additional factor for our "spirit's" growth can be found in participating in a service of healing during worship. Salem's worship committee will be offering periodic opportunities for members to be a part of healing services. The first of these offerings will be the weekend of July 13-14. At Saturday evening worship and our two Sunday worship opportunities that weekend, those present will have an opportunity to come to the altar for anointing, laying on of hands, and prayer. A prayer station offering candle lighting and silent petition will be available. Each worshiper may partake of both prayer offered for them at the altar and personal offering of prayer at the candle-lighting area. I very much look forward to sharing this service of petition, praise, and thanksgiving with our faith community. Come, let's worship the Lord together.

Blessings of Renewal be yours in Christ,
Pr. Rob

Keeping in Touch - June 2013

2013-05-29T13:10:00.001-05:00

The morning comes quietly but with the beauty and strength of the sun. It is a new beginning of a day yet to be inhabited by joy or pain, sorrow or happiness, the ordinary. We are in the midst of the season called "Time after Pentecost," or "Ordinary Time."

I like the term Ordinary Time. We know what that is. It consists of the routines and rhythms that we engage without a great deal of thought. Ordinary Time is lived automatically. We live automatically, that is, until an unexpected occurrence calls us to be or do something out of the ordinary. In an instant, we begin to cull our memories and file through our experience to see if we have information that applies to the now of the unexpected in the ordinary. Sometimes we have no real experience or stored data that gives us a sure path and pattern for action. Sometimes we just "fall into" something that works. At other times we ask for help.

The gift that begins Ordinary Time is the festival of Pentecost, with the Pentecost promise that the Spirit of the living God is in us and will be our Advocate and our strength. I trust that you, personally and corporately as Salem, will call upon and rest in the presence of the Living Christ through the Holy Spirit.

As we worship together in the Ordinary Time of Summer -- these days after Pentecost -- let us be reminded that God will make a way for his children to thrive. Right now the Spirit is moving in this congregation and in the lives of Christ's ordained servants for the purpose of creating a new community of Pastor and People who will remember who Jesus is and what he did and does for all those whom God loves.

At Salem, all are invited to come to the Lord's table each week to nurture Salem's part of the new community that is coming. As did our brothers and sisters, mothers and fathers in faith before us, let us not grow weary in doing good and waiting upon the Lord. Our God has promised that those who do wait upon the Lord WILL mount up on wings like eagles. They will run and not be weary, walk and never faint.

Stay close to one another in worship and service, "Living Christ's Love" so that you might be found ready when Salem's "New Beginning" arrives.

Blessings in your walk with God in the Ordinary,
Pr. Rob

Keeping in Touch - April 2013

2013-03-31T17:21:00.000-05:00

Glad to see spring arrive! Aren't you? I say it that way because as I write this, it isn't even 20 degrees here. Hopefully it will be much warmer as you read this.

The Groundhog got it wrong. It was so pleasant to hear that it would be an early spring - well, not really. There is a reliability issue with this prediction. No doubt Jesus's disciples wondered about their Lord's reliability that spring. The three-day wait was surely an eternity. He did come back. As we go deeper into the Easter season, we will hear the voices of disappointment once again when Jesus announces that he will go to the Father. He promises the gift of the Holy Spirit to take his place. The eleven watched the Resurrected Jesus ascend into heaven forty days after his return. I can just imagine as three days passed, then seven days and still no Holy Spirit, the gathering of the disciples, in Jerusalem, waiting as they had been instructed, began to hum with the whispers of...well, you can fill in the blank. "I don't think we're going to see anything. Do you suppose we misunderstood? Maybe He got it wrong? Each of these and what you filled the blank with were expressions of questioning the reliability of the Master. Of course, when the tenth day had arrived, the disciples saw once again that their Lord was indeed reliable.

As the Church grew, once again reliability would become an issue. The communities of faith grew anticipating that Jesus would return soon and the new beginning would arrive. Repeatedly now for over 2000 years believers have waited, watched, and predicted that the Lord was coming. Over and over again there have been adjustments to the "Not Yet" aspect of faith. This whole reliability question comes into play many times over.

Well, the Groundhog got it wrong. Experience tells us that, nonetheless, spring will arrive. When it does, light and warmth and new life will cause our anxiety about the new season arriving to disappear.

In the millennia of anticipation for Jesus's second coming, we have found signs that "Not Yet" will yield the fruit of reliability and we will see the Lord again. So now we have two examples of delayed but fulfilled promise - spring and Christ's return.

There is yet one more question of reliability for Salem. Will we ever see the new resident pastor here? The time lag has stretched out longer than anyone anticipated. It is so tempting to lose heart and hope. Nonetheless, "He who called you is faithful and He will do it." Be hopeful, do the work of the Lord and stay alert. Salem has not been forgotten. God is bringing the pastor that God has chosen for you. May spring and the Resurrection of our Lord give you courage in hope and strength to continue to be God's church in Sycamore. Like the disciples before you, you are not alone. The Spirit will empower the will and way for your witness to continue to and beyond the day of the promised gift of a pastor to share God's work in you.

Blessed Easter season - and spring,
Pr. Rob

Keeping in Touch - February 2013

2013-01-30T11:10:00.001-06:00

I looked back at last year's pre-Lent newsletter article and saw that I anticipated that our journey of ministry together would have been completed before another Lenten Season. According to God's timing, my timing was off by a bit.

I appreciate the opportunity to spend another journey toward the Great Three days with the congregation at Salem. Throughout the coming forty days, we will gather on Wednesday evenings for "Prayer Around the Cross." Within the context of these services we will have the opportunity to sing, to pray for one another and share the warmth of candlelight.

The Worship Committee invites members to join in a 6-week venture in prayer. Each week, "Wednesday Worshipers" can take a stone from the Baptismal waters. Each stone represents one of the "living Stones"- whose name appears on a rock - that is being built together to form the Temple of the Lord dwelling in the midst of Salem. The hope is that when we reach Easter, all the names will have been prayer for and Salem will be blessed by the lives that are linked to one another in the Spirit of Christ through our prayers.

In the history of God's people, a stone has been used to mark a place and time of significance in people's interaction with God. The hope is that we will sense a link with our forebearers in the faith and a strengthened bond with Christ who is the Rock of our Faith.

Let's come together once again in marking the return of the light and spring to the Earth. With thanksgiving and supplication we will seek and mark the renewal that God's Spirit brings by our Lenten preparation for the feast of The Resurrection and New Life.

Lenten blessings,
Pr. Rob

Keeping in Touch - January 2013

2012-12-27T20:16:00.000-06:00

How are you doing on the resolutions for 2013? There is nothing wrong with seeking improvement...but there is something painful about trying to be "like someone else" or seeing how one measures up in an internal competition of comparison. We live in a culture designed to make us think we should be thinner, smarter, better, anything other than who God made us to be. That is to say, have you noticed that when looking around, all you see are people who seem happier, wiser and richer than you? It's as if they know the secret and we don't.

As we walk into another new year, let's seek to remember that by constantly viewing ourselves as less-than, we are insulting our Maker. The Word of God says we are "fearfully and wonderfully made" (Psalm 139:14). In God's eyes you and I are "just right" because our Father never makes anything that is not.

God made you for a special purpose. St. Paul says it is in Christ that "...we find out who we are and what we are living for..." So if you find yourself struggling in the endless quest for perfection, adopt a resolution in 2013 to live into the words of this prayer:

"Father, You are my Maker, my Sustainer, my Rewarder. You are also the Lover of my soul. In spite of my limitations and struggles I thank You for the work You have done, and continue to do in me. Help me to honor You by loving and accepting myself the way You do. Amen."

If we live in the context of the above prayer, we can say in response to the question "How are you doing on the resolutions for 2013?": "By God's grace I'm doing fine."

Thank you for letting God's gift of you shine with God's light.

Pr. Rob

Keeping in Touch - December 2012

2012-11-29T15:22:00.001-06:00

Advent is come again. We will begin this season of anticipation on Sunday, December 2, 2012.

What a joy it is that we will once again share the anticipation leading to the celebration of our Lord's Nativity. This year the world is in turmoil as it was when Mary and Joseph waited for Jesus' birth and then found themselves away from home and in a stable when the time arrived that she should give birth.

The turmoil this year has centered on the Middle East, the homeland of the historical Jesus. As the Jews of that day and later the Christian church prayed for the peace of Jerusalem, I invite you to make it part of your devotions this Advent to continue to pray for peace in Israel and the Palestinian territory. Likewise I invite you to join Salem in the Advent midweek worship through word and song as we celebrate Around the Cross - Prayer for the Healing of the Nations. I believe that this will be a meaningful expression of the Advent theme of waiting in hope. Then on Christmas Eve, Salem will have the opportunity to celebrate our Lord's birth at 4pm, 7pm, and 11pm.

I trust you will be present with your brothers and sisters as we prepare for and re-live the beauty of Redemption's birth.

"His love still lights the world." Have a blessed Christmas.

Pr. Rob

Keeping in Touch - November 2012

2012-10-28T16:57:00.000-05:00

"How beautiful upon the mountain top are the feet of those who bring Good News." So the writer sings about the very real delight that we human creatures experience when Good News touches our life.

This month we will, as we have all of our lives in the United States, celebrate a day of National Thanksgiving. The lead-up to the day, indeed the whole month of November, becomes a time of thanksgiving for harvest, a good Winter, Spring and Summer just past. We give thanks as well for interpersonal relationships that have blessed our lives.

Here at Salem we will join the rest of our culture in portraying thankfulness. I'd like to offer a challenge for November. Each day let's give thanks for one thing, one person, one moment, one gift. Let's give thanks for one something every day. I don't ask that you remind anyone else to be thankful nor to point out to them something for which they could give thanks. I ask only that each of us give thanks to our creator for God's provision.

I am convinced that as we remember to give thanks/say thank you/make a gesture of thanks, we will take another step on the pathway of Salem's mission "Living Christ's Love."

St. Paul reminds us, "Give thanks in all circumstances...and we will know God's peace" and the world will know us as disciples by our love.

Today I give thanks for Salem and her witness to the world that disciples of Jesus give thanks, share with others both in good times and less pleasant times. Christians seek justice for all whom God loves.

The waves of economic uncertainty have swirled around us throughout the year. Perhaps this is an example of "give thanks in all circumstances."

Living Christ's love with you,
Pastor Rob

Keeping in Touch - October 2012

2012-10-01T15:26:00.000-05:00

Financial Issues?

As we proceed through the harvest season, we also prepare to covenant with the church for the support of Salem's mission. This brings up the subject of money. I wanted to share with you some of the thoughts our Presiding Bishop, Mark Hanson, offered in a conversation with Healthy Leaders editor, Kathy Shea, in an interview for Embody Health.

Bishop Hanson said: "Money is such a private issue, and so often it's loaded with feelings of guilt, and maybe bitterness, and even resentment. We're living in anxiety-producing times - the uncertainty of the economy, many of us are afraid to admit that we're over our heads and need the wisdom of financial resource people to keep us healthy emotionally and spiritually."

Do you believe a leader's financial life affects the life of the congregation?

"Yes, strongly. The degree to which public leaders can be vulnerable and public about difficult, painful issues and how they act upon them becomes a powerful invitation and witness for those in the congregation living in volatile economic times. It is permission-giving for others to take that same step. I do think, as public leaders, we have a great opportunity to share with others our lack of perfection and need for assistance. We can share our experience in a conversation, an article, or a confirmation class topic."

So, talking openly about financial issues is a spiritual and communal act?

"I hope we don't just think of financial health and well-being as an individual issue. We are a community of faith with deep biblical mandates to hold financial well-being as a justice issue, to attend to the common good of all.

The prophets are continually reminding us that when God wants to look at the quality of our faith, God doesn't look at the beauty of our sanctuaries or listen to the eloquence of our preaching or our marvelous choirs. God looks at the condition of those who live in poverty among us, and there God sees how faithful God's people have been. Behind our difficulty with faithfulness is anxiety over money.

Anxiety about money creates two health issues - financial and emotional ill-health - which, in turn, creates a spiritual health issue. We can't be spiritually healthy if our anxiety interferes with our ability to live with a sense of confidence and trust."

Do you think our leaders should discuss personal issues more openly?

"In this culture, money is so associated with individuals - my money, your money - and so we treat it as a very private personal possession and hesitate to even talk about it. If I'm in a room of adults, I know that every one of us is living with the reality of money in our lives. It may be a source of joy, a source of anxiety, something about which we feel ashamed or resentful or grateful, but we all live in a world that revolves around money, so why not have a public conversation about it?

As a person of faith and a public leader, I'm mindful of how often Jesus talked about money. He engaged with people around issues of money. If Jesus can talk openly about money, so, too, can those of us called to proclaim him and follow him. What if we were all just honest and said, 'Let's have a conversation about money, and assume that we all carry anxiety about it.' Just by naming it out loud, we diminish the anxiety a bit. When anxiety is reduced then we are better able to see money as another gift which our Heavenly Father gives us stewardship."

I trust these words will make it a more joy-filled experience to support the mission of Salem, the Northern Illinois Synod and the ELCA as we work toward the coming of God's Kingdom in your lives.

Blessings, Pastor Rob