Hebrews 13:2 says, “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it.” I’ve been thinking about this verse, because I have so appreciated the warm welcomes and hospitality I’ve received as a newcomer to this area. I am the new pastor at Orfordville Lutheran Church and the newest addition to “The Pastor’s Corner.” Since moving here, people have invited us into their homes, fed us, shown us around, and shared their stories. As a stranger to these parts, I am so thankful for this kindness.
One of my fall responsibilities is getting our confirmation classes up and running. Confirmation, for many Lutheran Christians, is an intensive time of religious education for 7th and 8th graders leading to an affirmation of their baptism in their 9th grade year. Picture a small group of adolescents sitting around a table on a Wednesday night discussing the Bible with their pastor.
Winter is loitering in Minnesota this year, even though we’ve asked it to move along. Last Thursday brought a half-foot of snow, and April 19th achieved a record low of 21 degrees before the sun came up on Saturday. The 19th was also the date for Beacon Interfaith Housing Collaborative’s annual event, A Night on the Street.
That night, I joined 268 youth and adults from 22 faith communities to sleep in cardboard boxes in Plymouth Congregational Church’s parking lot in downtown Minneapolis. The youth raised over $25,000 for housing specifically for homeless young people, and we learned about the realities of being homeless from youth who have been there and from street outreach workers who see it everyday.
Every Sunday, right before we receive Holy Communion, I pray the Lord’s Prayer with my church. In general, I think it’s hard to pray in a humble and honest way during an antagonistic election season like this one, but this prayer Jesus taught to his disciples gives me the words and continually teaches me to pray.