Dear
Family and Friends of Lee Memorial United Methodist Church;
Have you had a good summer? September
always seems to be a continuation of summer in many aspect. But this year it feels like fall already. Even though I am sure
that there are summery days still left in September, I welcome the change of temperature, dry air and the colors of sky and
leaves. I learned that only through those changes do I recognize things that don’t change. Through those changes I recognize
that the order of nature God installed stay the same just as through many changes in our lives, God’s faithful love
for us remains steadfast.
However, at times we encounter
the trials and tribulations that keep us from sensing God’s presence. Even when we have a strong faith in God and pray
to God everyday, when we are overwhelmed by the situations God’s presence seems to be covered by the clouds of our emotions
and we cannot see through. In those times I ask God “Are you still there?” God has never failed to answer me “yes,
I am.” Even though I know God is there, at times I need to check to make sure, just as a toddler needs to check to see
if her mom is still there watching her while she plays in the playground. According my experience the worse the situation,
the closer God was to me. In the midst of overwhelming changes, God has been faithful.
This summer we had so many
people going through major illnesses, treatment and surgeries, which has been overwhelming for the patients and their families
as well as for us as members of a caring community. I have witnessed how faithful God has been in strengthening their bodies,
minds and spirits. I also have witnessed how faithful you have been in walking with them in their paths of illness sharing
the burdens upon your shoulders. In their time of question “is God still with me?” you gave them the answer “of
course, God is!” by being faithful in caring and praying and supporting them. Because you were there for them, they
were able to recognize the presence of God even in the midst of heavy and thick clouds.
As we begin our fall ministry
I also want to ask you a question, “are you there?” Since we have many people who cannot attend worship service
on Sunday, we need you who are well and strong so that we all may stand firm as a caring community for those who can’t
by themselves. So please come to church on Sunday and join in our worship service. Your presence will give the strength and
reassurance to those who now ask a question “are you still there?” And I hope you do.
May
the blessings of God that comes in many colors be with you!
Peace,
Pastor Ho-Soon
