I am a people person. Hands down. I draw energy from building relationships and discovering connections with people. As we’ve journeyed through these odd and ever-changing days, I can say that I miss people and socialization the most. I feel like we have done ok through this time. However, my energy is definitely waning. Our time since March has been spent with 3 tight groups of people - our family, a few neighborhood families, and work colleagues.
Truth be told, I work with some of the greatest people on the planet. Working together to adapt and pivot what ministry looks like in 2020 (it feels like something changes every couple of days) has brought us all closer together - all the teamwork, all the meetings, all the ‘what’s next’. But, I really miss the office being open and a daily stream of people through the building. Our productivity is higher, no doubt, but to quote Reverend Verne Fuqua, “We’re in the business of people.”
If you don’t know Verne, you should. He’s our Associate Pastor of Visitation, once retired but always working for the Lord. We quote him as often as we can. He has some really good ones. A staff favorite is, “Love Jesus, Love People.” It’s a constant reminder of our true focus in ministry and in life.
As much as I miss people in and out of the building, I’m also thankful for the time to reset and reflect. I wouldn't call it a slow down, with the constant pivots. Nonetheless, we’ve been able to really dig down into how we Love Jesus and Love People.
One of the legal experts heard their dispute and saw how well Jesus answered them. He came over and asked him, “Which commandment is the most important of all?”
Jesus replied, “The most important one is Israel, listen! Our God is the one Lord, and you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your being, with all your mind, and with all your strength. The second is this, You will love your neighbor as yourself. No other commandment is greater than these.”
Mark 12:28-31 (CEB)
How are you Loving Jesus today?
How are you Loving People today?
Someday, hopefully soon, we’ll get back to normal. Although, that normal may look a little different. For me, these reflections on life have been an important part of my growth during this time and I know they will have lasting impacts.
Written By: Abby Johnson
PS - Verne’s Birthday is tomorrow! He’s a special part of our community and we hope he has a great day!