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The Business of Time
January 5, 2021
I have seen the business that God has given to humankind with which to busy themselves. Everything God has done aptly in its time. Eternity, too, God has put into the hearts of humankind, without their grasping at all what it is God has done from beginning to end. I know that there is nothing good in it but to be merry and to partake of good things in their lives.
– Ecclesiastes 3:10-12
Here we are, having turned over into 2021. For many of us the dawning of new year signals the setting aside of what from the previous year we hope to leave behind, and the taking up of newer and healthier practices. We brim with anticipation at what a new 365-day span of time may bring to us. But our well-intentioned transformations don’t often stick, and little changes. I wonder if that happens not just because we don’t often handle change well or discover diminishing returns for all our efforts, but also because we fail to perceive time as something in God’s hands.
On what are our feelings and hopes of newness built? 2020 brought for many of us deep sorrow, loss, and anguish related to the pandemic and the muting of life as we have known it. With vaccines becoming more readily available, there are signs of hope on the horizon, but not much will change from what we have known this last year as we roll into 2021. Restrictions remain in place, cases continue to rise, and getting back to anything like what we would call “normal” rests at a distance we have yet to discern.
The book of Ecclesiastes, rich in realism, offers a keen observation about the ambiguity of time, that human beings, living the brief spans of their lives, have no control over when seasons of goodness and grief may overcome them. “There is a time and season for everything,” the writer offers, but we have little to no control over any of it. Life happens, yes, and sometimes cruelly, but never devoid of God’s presence, though we sometimes fail to perceive God with us.
The writer observes that time is fleeting, and that we live often despairing of what feels like time’s scarcity. We busy ourselves with business unrelated to what God desires for us, and so there’s not enough time in our lives to do all we want to do, love who we want to love, or be all we aspire to be, we reason. But perhaps that’s not because something is wrong with time, like us not having enough of it, but rather that something is wrong with how we perceive time.
Ecclesiastes declares that even in our finitude, God has placed eternity within us, despite our inability to perceive and fully appreciate God’s love and activity within time. This seems like a problem, until the writer concludes there’s nothing good in us despairing what we cannot do, only “to be merry and to partake of good things in their lives.”
Does that mean do what you want because you just have this one life? Of course not. I would offer that it means instead that God redeems our time, and indeed all time, so that we can experience its gifts.
We just finished declaring the miracle of the incarnation, that in the flesh of Jesus the Christ, God is with us in life, in death, and in life beyond death. Jesus, then, is the Lord of time in that he confines himself to our perception of time and its seasons of goodness and grief, all the while being the embodiment of the Living God who dwells outside of time. It is Jesus’s life lived wholly to God in time by which our time, all our time, is redeemed before God.
Often we despair time. But our past, present, and future belong to the God who has in Jesus lived our time. Through Jesus we are freed to “be merry and partake in the good things of life,” even in the midst of sorrow and grief. In doing this we don’t ignore the bad, but rather recognize that the bad has no power to overwhelm the truth that God is with us in all things. We can experience joy in the midst of sorrow, life in the midst of death, and still take seriously the ills of our hurting world.
As we give ourselves to this new year, may we not despair time, but rather pray and reflect on how we might decide to live passionately the time we have been given, time that has been redeemed to significance through Jesus Christ who is with us.
Pastor Patrick
As we begin a new year, how’s your faith doing? Have you ever thought that true faith is about surrendering everything. It’s about putting all your hope in God’s faithfulness to His promises. We often hear the phrase “just have faith,” but in our culture, it’s become a quick fix for situations where we don’t have clear answers. While faith certainly forms the foundation of our walk with Jesus, it’s not enough to merely claim we have it. Faith that isn’t backed by both inner transformation and outward action is empty. Saying “I have faith” is meaningless if our hearts and lives don’t align with that statement. True faith is an active, bold trust in God’s grace—a trust so deep we’d be willing to risk everything, even our lives. Scripture offers us a vivid example of initiating faith through the story of Peter. Peter, often mocked for his impulsive actions, was deeply devoted to Jesus. In Matthew 14:25–29, we see Peter given the chance to act on his faith by stepping out of the boat and walking toward Jesus, despite the raging storm. While others might criticize him, we must acknowledge the boldness of his decision. Stepping out in faith can sometimes make us look foolish—if Jesus doesn’t show up, we might appear completely misguided. But real faith involves taking risks that only make sense if God comes through. We all want to experience the miraculous, like walking on water, but none of us is eager to take the first step off the boat. It’s time to put our faith into action, even when it feels uncomfortable. Faith is a vision of the heart that recognizes God’s presence in both the darkness and the light. Of course, Peter wasn’t perfect. He famously denied Jesus three times, despite his earlier acts of faith—like walking on water with Him! Yet his story didn’t end in failure. After his denial, Peter went on to die as a martyr for his unwavering faith. This shows that faith isn’t a one-time burst of energy; it’s a journey, one that shifts and grows through life’s trials and triumphs. Faith can waver, but it’s important to hold on and continue acting on the faith God has given us. How is your faith influencing your actions? What changes in your life could better reflect the faith you profess? -Pastor Ray
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! I so hope that this season is filled with joy for you. It has been my absolute pleasure to serve the people of Front Street and the community of Burlington this past year. Can I tell you my favorite part? Not once, not twice, but actually dozens of times this year I met someone in the community who told me what they think of Front Street. And the things that they say . . . are really wonderful! They tell me how they love the events we’ve put on like the Pancake Supper in February and the Market for Missions in November. They tell me how amazing it is that we serve hundreds of families at Eastlawn Elementary with food and love and support. They tell me they know someone at Front Street who is loving and hospitable. I bet that’s you! Church, the community sees you and celebrates the ways you follow Christ. Which to me is a look ahead. What will Front Street do in 2025? Well, I think it will grow in its love to neighbor. Why more growth when you already do so much good? Simply put, because the needs of the community are growing. And when the needs of the world grow God’s people step up and meet those growing needs. That’s just how God’s economy of grace works. So where people are hungry in body or in spirit, we will feed them. Where people are without a home in the world or after the world, we will house them. Where people are sick in their body or their mind, we will heal them. And if that seems like a tall order to you, you’re right. Which is why we will need to grow as disciples. God has always been our source of strength and we will need to learn to rely on God more and more. I hope you’ll get some rest in this season. You’ve earned it. And you’ll also need it for the work ahead. I can’t wait to hear what people will say next? -Pastor Stephan
Advent is a sacred season of anticipation and preparation, a time to reflect on the coming of Christ. While the busyness of the holidays can dominate our attention, Advent invites us to pause and focus on the true reason for the season: the arrival of Jesus, our Savior. Marking the beginning of the church calendar, Advent is a time to prepare not just our homes but our hearts for the celebration of Christ’s birth. It reminds us that God chose to step into humanity, taking on flesh to bring salvation and hope to the world. As Luke 2:11 proclaims: “Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ, the Lord.” Advent calls us to reorient our focus. Amid the holiday rush, it beckons us to embrace wonder, awe, and gratitude, experiencing the nativity story with fresh eyes and letting the glory of the Incarnation stir our spirits. This Advent season, join us as we journey through our message series, On The Way to Bethlehem, exploring the movement of the Christmas story. Let us renew our longing to see God’s glory, seek Him earnestly, and draw closer to Him. Don’t forget to join us for the conclusion of this advent journey At The Stable: Christmas Eve services at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Together, let’s worship and reflect on the miracle of Christ’s birth. -Pastor Ray
Friends and Family of Front Street UMC and Readers of Frontline Newsletter, Communication and transparency are always a front running goal when it comes to church life here at Front Street UMC. We have always prioritized keeping you up to date on the inner and outer workings of the church; in huge part because we want you to know what good and amazing work you are supporting by your gifts to this church. The goal of communication remains just as important as ever; as does our goal of being good stewards of the gifts from both you and office personnel. In order to continue being a good steward of those resources the Visioning Committee (Church Council) has approved the discontinuation of our printed Frontline Newsletter. This printed newsletter will continue through the summer months, and starting September 1 the newsletter will transition to a digital format. There is nothing that you need to do at this time in order to receive the digital newsletter. If you are subscribed to the Happenings emails you will see the changes reflected there. If you do not have an email address please contact the church office and we will make sure you are still receiving information about church life. If you are not currently receiving emails from the church and would like to, please share your email address with us here or call the church office. Again, communication and transparency are important tools to keep all of us connected as God intends. We are forever thankful for the ways God has worked through your lives to support this missional outpost of Front Street UMC. We thank God for all the ways we grow together. - Pastor Stephan
I don’t carry cash much these days, but every now and then I find myself with a little bit. Typically after a birthday or some moment where a loved one gave me cash as a congratulations. On one occasion I was gifted a crisp $100 bill. Wow! When I finally decided to break it I was paying for lunch for my family. At this point our family of four can easily cost $60 in one outing. The bill was something like $68. When I put the bill on the tray to pay, the waiter came by to collect it. They took a quick glance and asked me, “would you like your change?” What I wanted to say was, “the service was great, but not $32 great!” And what I actually said was, “Yes, please.” It makes me wonder, though. When we attempt to do good in someone else’s life by giving money or goods either directly or through a ministry like a church donation, do we ever ask for our change? Or do we manage to always give exactly the right amount so that we’re not due any change back? Let me put it another way… When you share the abundant love of Christ with another person who is in need somehow, do you expect to receive even a fraction of that love back from them? Maybe not. Maybe because you don’t want to be rude. Or maybe because you know that kind of change won’t just go back into your spiritual wallet. That kind of change, to receive love back from someone different than you and someone who seems to need more than you… that change changes you. It makes you realize you also are a child of God in need of love and care. It makes you realize that others have an abundance of what you need. So as you give generously of your resources to those in need, let me ask you… Would you like your change? -Pastor Stephan
Dear Family and Friends of Front Street United Methodist Church, Undoubtedly you may have heard that the General Conference of our denomination has removed The United Methodist Church’s ban on the ordination of clergy who are “self-avowed practicing homosexuals” — a prohibition that dates to 1984. (The General Conference is the ruling body of our church. Its delegates are elected from every Annual Conference around the world and its delegates are equally laity and clergy.) Many of you, we are sure, may be asking “What does this mean for Front Street?” It means we, like all United Methodist, will be known as a people on a journey, learning how to be extravagant givers of God’s mercy, grace and love. We, like many of you, have no idea what it is to be a gay, lesbian or a queer person. But we do know what it is to be excluded, marginalized and made to feel less than others. As Disciples, we desire never to be ones who marginalize people of any race, gender or orientation. The One we follow clearly modeled that he stood alongside those whom culture and religion tossed aside or judged, and commands us to do likewise. The General Conference action does not require clergy to perform same-sex marriages, nor does it require churches allow same-sex marriages to occur in a local church sanctuary. But it does protect churches and clergy who choose to perform and hold same-sex marriage ceremonies. We have been asked by some of you, “Will a gay or lesbian clergy be appointed to our church?” In our denomination, appointment of clergy is done “in consultation with the local church [through the Staff Parish Relations Committee], the District Superintendent and Bishop.” We must remember a bishop would not want to appoint a clergy-person to a church who they perceive may not be received well. It would not be fair to the clergy or the church. We have a long and established reputation of being a welcoming, mercy-giving, grace-filled, loving people in service to the world for Jesus Christ our Lord. We will continue to be so to the very best of our abilities. And, our mission to serve the people of Burlington and Alamance county, just as Christ is serving them, remains the goal and focus for all of us, the people of Front Street. Here is the United Methodist News post and a letter written to a local church by one of the greatest Bishops we have ever encountered, Bishop Ken Carter. Bishop Will Willimon precedes with a short praise of Bishop Carter’s words. The letter expresses our hearts as pastors better than we are capable of putting in ink. Bishop Carter has preached in camp meetings, prisons and jails, college and university chapels, megachurches and house churches, and in twenty countries on four continents. He was a local church pastor in the Western North Carolina Conference for twenty-eight years. Thank you for all you do for the Reign of our Lord Jesus Christ! In Christ’s Grip, Pastors Ray and Stephan
Can anyone explain why the more we attempt to control things, the less peace we have? The issue with attempting to control everything is that we become the divine force of our own lives. We attempt to control what isn't controllable—that is the reason control is a deception, a facade. There are great many factors we have zero control over. Try not to be hoodwinked about it! We endeavor to control our conditions when we want our external day to day routines to fulfill our inward lives. If we desire peace in our lives, it would be tremendously helpful if we can relinquish the things that are really not an option for us to change. Jesus himself reminded us not to stress over what we would eat or wear yet entrust God with everything about our lives (Luke 12:22-26). Might you at any point control how your children act? Of course, you can lead them into becoming kind and loving persons (and please do), however you have zero control over their souls. They are their own people. We find this as they become teenagers! Might you at any point control how your friends and co-workers treat you? Might you at any point control the climate? Could you at any point control interruptions that happen multiple times a day? Could you at any point control traffic? Might you at any point control how a stranger treats you? Treating your spouse with adoration and regard will pay off. But at any point can you control them? On the off chance that you have been married for any time at all, you realize the response is an absolute “no”! So why do we often attempt to do so? Knowing we can influence, and not control, gives everyone around us a great deal of liberation, grace, mercy, and joy. Well, that is, IF we give up control. Do want those you love to feel joy and peace? Do you want them to know mercy and grace? Then be loving influencers, and let go of control. Even our Lord God doesn’t control us, only invites us to walk with him, live like him, and experience loving freedom, joy, and peace. -Pastor Ray
For the next few weeks we’re delving into the topic of faith. Why do we have faith? Why should we have faith? What are the basics of our faith? Consider this a bit of a crash confirmation course (CCC for short). We think you’ll enjoy these questions and the discussions we will all have. But I wonder if you’re concerned about all of these why questions. They’ve not gotten any easier. In fact, they seem to be getting more and more personal. First why church, then why God, now why believe? Are we just questioning everything!?! Well… in a word, yes. But we’re not questioning anything for the sake of questioning. This is discipleship work! And I know it is because the disciples themselves asked Jesus many questions. “Who is the greatest?” “When will this take place?” “How should we pray?” This list goes on and on, but I want to show you a greater truth. You see, Jesus is our model for living in the world. Jesus modeled for us so many behaviors, and he did not stop here. When you look through the Gospels you might be surprised to see Jesus asked 307 questions (some say 305). So many of those questions were why questions, and many questions were given in response to questions someone else asked Jesus (Don’t you hate it when people do that?)! What I hope you’re thinking now is… why would Jesus ask questions? (I know… more questions). Doesn’t he know it all, already? Well, probably so. Though statements always convey authority—I know something and I’m gifting it to you. Questions, on the other hand, are something two or more people can hold together. If you share a question with someone, the two of you can work on it together. And when you figure it out together, you can celebrate together! That’s some pretty slick relationship practice Jesus is modeling. Any more questions? Pastor Stephan
In the United Methodist Church, ordination is understood as one “set aside by the Church for the specialized ministry of Word, Sacrament, and Order.” A person who believes they are “called” by God to enter full-time Christian ministry embarks upon years of discernment, guidance, and accountability. Generally a person speaks with their pastor, and their local church must affirm that they too believe an individual is called to Christian ministry. Likewise, the District and Conference must also affirm an individual’s call to ordained ministry. Ordinands must complete a four-year college degree and a Master of Divinity degree. After completing all educational requirements, a candidate for ordination who wishes to become an Elder must serve as a “provisional member” for at least two (2) years. Provisional membership is a “residency program” designed by the Annual Conference (generally the State in which one resides). The provisional member status is for the continued process of discernment for the individual and the denomination to affirm one’s calling to ministry. This discernment process includes writing and defending one’s theology, calling, and sermons before the Conference Board of Ordained Ministry. Additionally, ordinands must successfully complete lengthy psychology exams. It takes a minimum of nine years from the time one embarks upon the process of ordination to completion. It is a massive undertaking to be an ordained clergy in the United Methodist Church and when one completes this process it deservedly should be celebrated. Thus, it is with enthusiasm and excitement that we celebrate our own Stephan Margeson as he has successfully completed all ordination requirements, and has been approved for ordination as an Elder in the United Methodist Church! Stephan’s Ordination service will take place this summer at the North Carolina Annual Conference in June. The date we at Front Street will celebrate Stephan’s ordination will be announced soon. In the meantime, please join me and congratulate Stephan for this huge lifetime achievement! In Christ’s Grip, Pastor Ray
Imagine this, you’re living in ancient Israel. Your town is small but it’s located along a busy pathway to Jerusalem. All around you are rolling, green hills scattered with rocks of varying sizes which, though annoying, have been useful in building most of the town’s houses and stables and a small house of worship. Just outside of town on the hillside is a flock of sheep being watched over by a shepherd with a long staff standing at the crest of the hill. Because of the town’s location there are always new people visiting. There’s a group of people who take turns at the town’s entrance welcoming strangers to stop for a rest and a cool drink of water. Hospitality is common place in here, but these people are odd. You’ve never understood why, but this group welcome strangers into town by washing the feet of every person—an act normally reserved for entering a home. Time passes and you’re invited to journey with a group to Jerusalem. As you enter into the city, the group you are traveling with outright ignores the clangs of bells and drapes of color in the market. They find their way to a large bath located in a small corner of the city. Once there, the priest of your town begins to talk about baptism, which you’ve heard him talk about many times over. This time though, it’s not an invitation to learn but instead to know. One after one the members of the group step into the pool on one side and emerge from the other where a new white robe is waiting for them. Finally, you step into those same waters… When you return to your small town there’s only one thing you want to do. You walk to the entrance of the town, kneel beside one of the people you once thought odd, and you welcome the next stranger into town as the dirt falls from their feet onto your new white robes. You think, “everyone should experience what it means to be loved like this.” -Pastor Stephan
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