“I thank my God in all my remembrance of you.” Philippians 1:1
As I think back over the years here at Community Lutheran Church I count myself blessed. These years with you have been wonderful, challenging, loving, and filled with unexpected joy. I will remember you with a deep sense of love and appreciation.
When I came here nearly 10 years ago CLC was a different church and Rancho Santa Margarita was a different community. Both have gone through significant changes. RSM became incorporated, a beautiful community center was built, I was privileged to be part of the 9/11 first anniversary remembrance at RSM lake, and I have been blessed to be part of the planning sessions of the New Year’s Eve Family Night celebration in Central Park. CLC had its changes also. We experienced changes in staff, the celebration of our 30th Anniversary in which all predecessor pastors were in attendance. We built a beautiful patio, and have experienced opportunities to serve others through Corazon, Adopt an Angel, and Habitat for Humanity, just to name a few. We have worshiped on Saturday night, we offered a family VBS in the summer and of course, the backpacking program which has continued for 27 years. There are so many things that we have experienced together for which I give thanks.
As I reflect back over the years spent here I can’t help but see the hand of God and recognize how God moves in unexpected ways. Martin Luther once described this as the “alien work” of God. He proposed that God works in ways and means that we would not recognize nor attribute to God. How true is that! Whether that may be seeking a new call (my situation) or wondering what kind of pastor will come here (your situation) God is present every step of the way. And not just present as a bystander but present actively, shaping, affecting, and guiding our lives. I know God is here now doing marvelous things that at the moment we may not recognize. Perhaps someday, as we look back at this moment, we will see God’s hand accomplishing his will through what Martin Luther described as an “alien work”.
I will miss you. I have felt and known your love and I am grateful for that. It is my prayer that the love of God that brought us and bound us together will continue to strengthen and encourage you in the days ahead. “I thank my God in all my remembrance of you.”
Pastor Greg
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