I had lunch today with a few of my friends who hang out with me every Saturday night at Mosaic. Among them was a guy who, like me, planted a church in the community a few years ago, but recently had brain surgery, so he and his wife have been gathering with us during his road to recovery. He still goes out almost every week to give out free coffee to the day laborers on the corners waiting and hoping to get a job for the day. Then there was a couple who found themselves in early retirement last year unexpectedly. They both shared how they didn't feel like they really "fit in" with other churches in the community, but are happy now and feel valued. Both volunteer regularly at Omega Partnership, helping meet the needs of people in the community. And finally, there was a guy who recently married, and he and his bride feel God leading them to plant a garden at their new home and use the vegetables they grow to bless those less fortunate in the community.
As I sat there in that restaurant, I couldn't help but feel how blessed I am to have such people in my life who care about others, who are living out the sermon..."Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy." I thank God that he is bringing people together like these and others at Mosaic Church to bring mercy, grace, and compassion to the community of Culpeper, Virginia. What a joy it is to be a friend and pastor to people like these.
Duane
