My mind and heart have been filled with concern over the new Handbook policy change in the Church which outlines new guidelines for the lay leaders.
I first heard about it from my boss. She read it in the New York Times. Not a good way to hear about this.
Handbook 1 is strictly for the leaders of congregations and those leaders that help to advise them. From congregations, and communities, areas and zones all the way to the top, for those that are called to administer to the world.
I am watching the effect of this new policy change tear people up, cause conflict in families, both biological, church families and communities. I have been thinking and feeling my way through this and carefully watching. I read something today that I want to share.
“God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgement… There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. We love him, because he first loved us.”
1 John 4, 16-19
This policy is bringing anger and hurt. I don’t understand all of it, but I do understand that I can choose the way I react. I understand that I must take this to Father in Heaven and ask how to help this build my faith and not ruin me. How can I remember the true points of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, to feel of the spirit of God and receive the peace that I am promised? To me this comes down to Love.
Let this journey of life direct me to follow the Son of God in all things, which is to Love. Love those that hurt me, love those that don’t understand me, love those in my family who are experiencing so much pain and to share their sorrow. Love those I don’t know, love the people on my street, in my neighborhood and random people I can hold the door for. And remember in all of this, that I need not be afraid. Policy is not doctrine. Let me live the principles that Jesus taught. Let me seek him and follow his footsteps.
God knows us, He knows our hearts and our struggles. He tells us that if we give our life to him, then we shall have life. Everyone has to find out what this means for themselves.
I wish it didn’t have to be so hard sometimes, but I am going to try and love, and serve others the best I can.
I love you.
Tina