The Prayerful Pause - June 11

This week, I want to share the letter that I read to the congregation on Pentecost Sunday. Thank you for being such a wonderful church. Keep letting the Spirit lead you well!

Dear Union Family,

Thank you. Thank you for being the Church—not just in this building, but in the community and in the world. You serve with your hands, hearts, voices, prayers, and presence, and you bless more people than you know.

Thank you for offering warm smiles and a genuine welcome, extending hospitality as if welcoming Christ himself. Thank you for teaching and mentoring, encouraging children, youth, and adults to grow in faith and love. You nurture lives from the nursery to the neighborhood where you live.

Thank you for offering your time, talents, and treasures to God here at Union Church with generosity and love. Thank you for planning, organizing, volunteering, and serving behind the scenes to keep this church moving forward with hope and grace.

Thank you for doing the everyday things that keep our ministry strong—setting up chairs, preparing communion, watering flowers, mowing the lawn, fixing what’s broken, decorating the building for special services, washing dishes, taking out the trash, and so much more. You show that every task matters when it’s done in love.

Thank you for leading us in worship—through music, scripture, prayer, and technology—and helping us lift our hearts to God each week. Thank you for showing up for people in need—visiting the sick, writing notes and texts, praying for others, delivering meals, and offering comfort to those who are grieving.

Thank you for serving beyond these walls—volunteering with ACTS, hosting families at Family Promise, supporting outreach events, and collecting supplies for local schools and other community ministries. Your faith overflows into action, and the community is stronger because of it. Thank you for saying, “Yes, I’ll help,” You build up the body of Christ and remind us that everyone has a place and a purpose.

We are one body with many members. Many gifts. One Spirit. And because of you, Union Christian Church is more than a building—it’s a family, a home, and a vibrant local expression of the Body of Christ.

As Paul once wrote, “I thank my God every time I remember you… because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.” Today, I echo those words from the heart.

Jesus loves you, Union Family and I do too.

Grace, Peace, and love,
Pastor Heather

The Prayerful Pause - May 28

School is out, and summer is finally here! It's time to enjoy some warmer weather and fun with family and friends! The month of June also brings several exciting things for us at Union.

Please mark your calendars for our Annual Congregational Meeting on Sunday, June 8, following morning worship. As we prepare for the new church year that begins in July, your participation in this meeting is vital. We will have several matters to vote on, including our leadership nomination report, the 2025-26 budget, and a proposed Bylaw Amendment.

The proposed Bylaw Amendment was drafted by our Administrative Officers this year and comes to you for consideration at the annual meeting after being approved by the Church Council. The purpose of this proposed amendment is to establish an Administrative Officers Committee. If adopted, the Administrative Officers Committee will continue moving us toward a more collaborative model of leadership by providing support for the current Church Council Chair and the Pastor. Another purpose of this committee is to prevent burnout among key leaders, which is so important in a congregation like Union.

You can read a copy of this proposed Bylaw Amendment by clicking the link below or picking up a copy in the Gathering Space. Please take some time to read it before the Congregational Meeting and consider it prayerfully. We look forward to sharing a covered-dish meal after our business is concluded that Sunday in the Fellowship Hall.

This month, we are also looking forward to Vacation Bible School! Our Road Trip VBS starts Monday, June 9, at 5:30 PM and runs through Thursday, June 12! Thank you to all who have volunteered and shared supplies with us for VBS already! Road Trip will be a ton of fun and provide fantastic opportunities for our children to grow in their faith. Please pray for the children and all the volunteers who will participate in VBS this year. Ask God to bless them and grow each one in his grace.

In June, I will be away on vacation from June 13 to 22. We will visit some family and then travel to the North Carolina Outer Banks and Colonial Williamsburg. While I am away, Rev. Emily Harbin from First Baptist Athens will preach on June 15, and Madison Sanders from Family Promise will share in worship on June 22. We will also have a hymn sing on June 22, which I know you will enjoy. Jonathan Byrd will teach Sunday School on those two Sundays. Should a pastoral need or emergency arise while I am away, you can contact any of our Elders for support. If you are unsure who to contact, Nickie in the church office can direct you to the right person.

Above all, this summer, it's my prayer that you will take time to be with Jesus and rest in God's continual care and unconditional love for you! Jesus loves you, Union family, and I do, too. I love being your pastor, and I am so thankful for our vibrant ministry together!

The Prayerful Pause - May 7

This coming Sunday is a special day in the life of Union Church as we celebrate both Graduate Recognition Sunday and Mother’s Day.

On Graduate Recognition Sunday, we will thank God for our youth and young adults who have reached an important milestone on their educational journey. We will celebrate their hard work, perseverance, and all the ways God has led them. We will also give thanks for all who have helped them along the way and surround our young folks with our love and prayers as they step into the future.

On Mother’s Day, we will give thanks for all who mother in the Family of God. We will give thanks for the mothers who raised us, the spiritual mothers who guided us, and all the women in our lives who nurtured us with prayer, patience, and presence. We will also hold space for those for whom this day brings grief or longing—those missing a mother, longing for a child, or navigating complicated relationships within their families.

This week, please join me in praying for our graduates and all who mother in the Family of God!

A Prayer for Our Graduates

Gracious and Loving God,
We thank you for each of our graduates. We thank you for their hard work, their unique gifts, and the journey that has brought them to this day. As they take the next steps, guide them with your wisdom and steady their hearts with your peace. Give them courage when the path is unclear, confidence in who you’ve created them to be, and a deep sense of your presence with them always. May they know that wherever life takes them, they are never alone. You go before them and walk beside them. In the name of Christ, we pray, Amen.

A Prayer for Those Who Mother

Loving and Compassionate God,
We thank you for the women who have mothered us. We give thanks for those who raised us in the home, and those who nurtured us in faith, friendship, and care. Thank you for the strength, tenderness, and wisdom these godly women have shared so generously with us. We also ask you to be with those missing a mother, longing for a child, or navigating complicated relationships within their families. We lift up those who are weary from the work of mothering and those who feel unseen in their care. Bless all the women in our church family who mother others with fierce love and quiet strength. May they know their impact and sense your encouragement daily. In the name of Christ, we pray, Amen.

The Prayerful Pause - April 30

As we turn the calendar to May each year, I remember the familiar adage: "April showers bring May flowers." Each time I remember that old saying, I am reminded that both sunshine and rain are needed for flowers and plants to grow. Following Jesus is a journey of daily growth with ups and downs. Yet, we can trust that God will faithfully tend all our lives' roots, shoots, and new growth. 
 
One thing I am looking forward to this month is our 'Roots of Discipleship' sermon series. Each Sunday, we will look at how God grows us in his grace as we seek to follow Jesus faithfully. Yes, as Christians, we put some effort into our faith formation and spiritual growth, but it's God, and God alone, who gives us growth and helps us develop deeper roots in Christ.
 
So, this month, I want to encourage us to prayerfully ask God some big questions.
 
· Lord, how do you want to grow me?
· Lord, how do you want to grow us as a church?
· Lord, how do you want to grow the impact of Union's life and ministry together?
 
These are questions that only God can answer. As we pray, may we listen for his voice and follow his lead as we seek to grow deeper roots as Christ’s disciples and as a church. As always, I would love to hear what God is sharing with you as you consider these questions prayerfully.
 
Here is a prayer to get you started.
 
Gracious God,
 
You are the One who plants, waters, prunes, and gives growth. I long to be deeply rooted in you, nourished by your word and Spirit.
 
When life pulls me in a thousand directions, root my heart in your truth. Send your living water to refresh my soul when I feel dry or uncertain. When storms come, and winds rage, hold me fast and keep my focus steadily on you.
 
Oh Lord, as I pray, I also offer these questions to you and await your faithful
direction. Lord, how do you want to grow me? Lord, how do you want to grow us as a church? Lord, how do you want to grow the impact of Union's life and ministry together?
 
Loving God, make me like a tree planted by streams of water, with good fruit for every season. Mold me into a faithful disciple who is grounded in your grace and growing ever more into the likeness of Christ.
 
In Jesus' name, I pray, Amen.
 
Union Family, I love being your pastor and seeing how God continues to grow and guide us together!

The Prayerful Pause - April 23

When we think of Easter, it’s easy to picture one glorious Sunday—the flower cross, joyful music ringing through the sanctuary, and a delicious meal with family and friends after service. But here is some excellent news: Easter isn’t just a single day. It’s a season and also a way of life.

The Season of Easter lasts for seven weeks, beginning Easter Sunday and continuing to Pentecost. This extended celebration reminds us that resurrection isn't meant to be a one-day event tucked into our calendar. Resurrection and the hope it brings is also a way of life. We are called to live as Easter people, shaped daily by the hope, joy, and victory of Christ's resurrection.

What does it mean to live as Easter people? I'll offer three action steps we can take this week to live as Easter people.

Walk in Newness of Life                                                                                                           
Romans 6:4 tells us, “Just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life.” The resurrection of Jesus wasn't just a moment in history. It opened the door for us to live differently today. Easter people walk in the newness of life, choosing love over fear, hope over despair, and grace over guilt. Yes, as Easter people, we are called to reflect the Good News of the empty tomb into everyday life. We are called to walk in newness of life, offering acts of love, deeds of kindness, and words of care and compassion to those who need it most.

Trust That Death Doesn’t Have the Final Word                                                                              
In a world filled with heartache and endings, Easter proclaims the astonishing truth: love wins, and death has been swallowed up in victory. The Season of Easter gives us time to soak in that truth, not just to believe it in our heads but to carry it in our hearts, especially when we face hardships, pain, and struggles. It’s like the old song says, “Because he lives, I can face tomorrow. Because he lives, all fear is gone. Because I know he holds the future, and life is worth the living just because he lives." 

Let God Use Us as He Makes All Things New                                                                      
Revelation 21:5 says, “See, I am making all things new.” Easter people allow God to use them as he restores and renews all things. Whether it's planting a garden to help feed hungry neighbors, forgiving a hurt, welcoming a stranger, helping out a friend in need, or praying for peace, the Risen Christ uses us to help mend what is broken. As we continue to live with resurrection joy, may we offer him our gifts, talents, and skills and join him in the work he is already doing, continually making all things new.

Prayer for the Easter Season
Risen Christ, 
Remind us that Easter is not just a day, not just a season, but a way of life. Help us to live as Easter people, filled with the joy of resurrection. Help us live as Easter people, renewed, restored, and full of your life-giving Spirit. Let every sunrise remind us that you are still making all things new. Use us, Lord, to share the Good News of Easter. May every act of humble service reflect your great love.
In Christ's Name, We Pray, Amen.

Jesus loves you, Union Family, and I do too!

The Prayerful Pause - April 16

As we walk through Holy Week with Jesus, I want to share a prayer with you that I found particularly meaningful this week. I look forward to worshiping with you at our Maundy Thursday service and at our Easter services on Sunday! I love you, Union Family, may God fill you up with his love this week as we walk with Jesus toward the cross.  

A Prayer for Holy Week- Author Unknown

Loving God,

As we walk the solemn road of Holy Week, we come to you with full hearts—full of wonder, full of sorrow, full of gratitude.

You walked this road before us, Jesus. You did not turn away from suffering but entered fully into our pain to redeem it.

As we remember the palm branches and the cries of “Hosanna,” remind us that you wore a crown of thorns for us.

As we remember you kneeling to wash feet, teach us the humility of love in action.

As we gather at the table, break the bread, and share the cup, nourish us with grace and bind us together in hope.

In the shadow of Gethsemane, help us stay awake to your presence, even when the night feels long and the burden feels heavy.

On the road to Calvary, give us the courage to follow, even when the way is hard, and remind us that no cross is carried alone.

Lord, as we move through this Holy Week, may we not rush to Easter morning. Let us sit at the foot of the cross, honoring the depth of your sacrifice and the wideness of your love.

And when the stone is rolled away, and the dawn breaks with resurrection light, may we rise renewed—ready to live as people of the Risen Christ, servants of the One who conquered death with love.

In the name of Jesus, our Savior and Redeemer, Amen.

The Prayerful Pause - April 9

"She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future– Proverbs 31:25 (NLT)

There's something beautiful about a genuine laugh. I am not talking about a nervous chuckle or a forced giggle. I am talking about the deep, belly-shaking laugh that bubbles up from a heart at peace. It's the sound of trust. It’s the sound of freedom. It’s the kind of laugh that says, “I don’t know what tomorrow holds—but I know who holds me in the palm of his hand.”

Proverbs 31 describes a virtuous woman who laughs without fear of the future. The image of a person laughing without fear of the future can apply to all of God's children, not just women. Yet, if we are honest, this image may sometimes feel far from our reality. The future can seem uncertain and overwhelming. It can be filled with what-ifs, worries, and fears. We may find ourselves asking, “How can we even think of laughing when the unknown looms large?”

But here is the secret: we don’t laugh without fear of the future because we think the challenges ahead will be easy. We can laugh without fear of the future because we will never face it alone.

Jesus, our Savior, has gone before us. He stands already in our tomorrows, steady and unshaken. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). Because of him, we are clothed in strength that is not our own and wrapped in dignity that cannot be stripped away by changing circumstances and shifting shadows. We can laugh even in deep valleys, not because we’ve figured it all out, but because he already has.

As we prepare for the shadows of Holy Week next week, may we remember that when fear whispers lies in our ears, let Jesus speak louder. His voice can drown out the noise of worry, anxiety, and fear. As we listen to Jesus, we will begin to laugh again. We will laugh again not because we're naive, but because we're rooted in an unshakable joy that isn't diminished by headlines, diagnoses, grief, or disappointments.

So today, let your soul breathe. Smile at the sunrise. Laugh with a friend. Find joy in small things. And when you look ahead, remember this: The One who holds your future also holds you and me.

Jesus loves you, Union Family, and I do too!

The Prayerful Pause - March 26

"And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm, and steadfast." 1 Peter 5:10 (NIV)

I am sure you have noticed that two of our sanctuary windows have been missing lately as they are undergoing restoration. This week, the window restoration company removed more windows from the long hallway as they continue working on this important project. The windows will be taken to their shop in Jackson, Georgia, where they will do this careful and loving work. I am thankful for the leadership of the Building Committee and their chairperson, Earl Elsner, for overseeing the details of this restoration project.

Careful restoration work has also been going on in our church cemetery this year. The specialized work has focused on the unattended graves, which have been worn down over time. It's an example of careful and loving work that honors previous generations buried in Union's cemetery who no longer have family members attending their gravesites. I am thankful for the leadership of the Cemetery Committee and their chairperson, Ken Clark, in coordinating all aspects of this restoration project.

Indeed, restoration takes time. It requires close attention to detail, skill, patience, and care. It’s a labor of love through which things that are worn down are brought back to life. Restoration is a powerful metaphor for what God does in us.

Each of us carries cracks and wear from life’s harsh winds—grief, failure, regret, exhaustion. And yet, in the hands of our gracious God, no brokenness is beyond repair. He is the Master Restorer. He doesn’t discard us. He reclaims us. He brings beauty out of damage, light out of what has faded, and strength out of what has weakened.

Like our sanctuary windows, we are being restored daily—not back to what we once were, but into something that reflects his glory more fully.

As you see the visible signs of restoration in our church building and the cemetery, may they remind you of God's invisible, yet powerful work in your life as he is restoring you. Piece by piece, he is renewing your spirit. And just like those windows will shine with renewed brilliance, so will your life reflect the light of Christ in fresh and beautiful ways.

Prayer:
Restoring God, thank you for never giving up on us. Thank you for seeing beauty even in our brokenness and for working patiently to restore us. As we witness the renewal of our sanctuary windows and work in the church cemetery, may we also sense the renewal you are working within our hearts, minds, and souls.  Make us strong, firm, and steadfast in you and your love. Amen.

The Prayerful Pause - March 19

“In the cold and snow of winter, there’s a spring that waits to be, unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see.” Natalie Sleeth

Tomorrow marks the first official day of spring. Spring is a time of transformation. After the long winter months, when everything seemed still and lifeless, the world begins to awaken. Buds appear on the trees, flowers push through the earth, and the days seem hopeful and bright.

Natalie Sleeth’s Hymn of Promise beautifully captures this transformation. You can read all the verses below, but for now, I will share a few reflections on this modern hymn. In Sleeth’s lyrics, I am always struck by how God is always at work—even when we cannot yet see the results. A bulb buried beneath the soil contains the promise of a flower. A seed holds the future of a tree. A cocoon conceals a butterfly waiting to be free. Spring shows us the beauty of patience and trust.

Union Family, just as the earth moves from dormancy to new life, so does our faith. There are seasons when we may feel stuck in the "cold and snow of winter," wondering if God is really at work in our lives. The promising results of God's work in our lives are often “unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see.”  We can trust that God is nurturing something new within us when we face seasons of silence, doubt, or struggle. Hope is already on the horizon, even if we cannot yet see it.

As we step into spring, let us open our hearts to God’s promise of renewal and resurrection. Even in the middle of Lent, we look to Jesus' resurrection from the dead and hold fast to the hope it gives us. We do this every Sunday, in fact. Did you know that the Sundays during Lent do not count in the overall 40 days of the Season?  Each Sunday is a little Easter. So just as the world around us is changing, God is still making all things new—including us. May we trust in the unseen work of the Spirit, knowing that resurrection is always on its way.
 

Hymn of Promise by Natalie Sleeth
In the bulb, there is a flower
In the seed, an apple tree
In cocoons, a hidden promise
Butterflies will soon be free
In the cold and snow of winter
There's a spring that waits to be
Unrevealed until its season
Something God alone can see.
 
There's a song in every silence
Seeking word and melody
There's a dawn in every darkness
Bringing hope to you and me
From the past will come the future
What it holds a mystery
Unrevealed until its season
Something God alone can see.
 
In our end is our beginning
In our time, infinity
In our doubt, there is believing
In our life, eternity
In our death, a resurrection
At the last, a victory
Unrevealed until its season
Something God alone can see.

The Prayerful Pause - March 12

This week, I am looking forward to the start of our annual Lenten Soup and Study, which will take place over the next five Wednesday evenings. Each week, we will enjoy some delicious soup and desserts at 5:30 PM and then spend time feasting on God’s word together until 7:00 PM.

During these sessions, we will use our Bibles and focus on Jesus’ 7 last statements from the cross. We will seek to listen to Christ from the cross and put his statements in the context of his life and ministry while also applying the concepts to our lives as disciples today. We’ll explore together what these words teach us about God and his ancient story of love. We will also seek insight for living as followers of Jesus who want to emulate his example to others here and now.

Here are the 7 words from the cross we will explore together:

• “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” Luke 23:32-38

• “Today you will be with me in paradise.” Luke 23:39-43

• “Woman, behold your son… behold your mother.” John 19:25-27

• “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Matthew 27:45-49

• “I thirst.” John 19:28-29

• “It is finished.” John 19:30

• “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.” Luke 23:44-46

I look forward to spending this intentional time with you during Lent, listening to Christ from the cross. May God use this study to help our roots grow down deeper into to Christ so that we might grow up into even more mature disciples with unshakable trust in him. Amen.
 
Jesus loves you, Union Family, and I do too! 

The Prayerful Pause - March 5

"Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me."  Psalm 51:10
 
Today is Ash Wednesday, and we begin our Lenten journey in earnest. Lent is a season of reflection, repentance, and renewal. Ash Wednesday calls us to remember our mortality, our need for God's mercy, and the invitation to turn our hearts fully toward him. The ashes we receive on our foreheads or forearms are not just a sign of our frailty, but also a symbol of God's redeeming grace.

Lent is also a time to let go of distractions and lean into God's presence. It's an opportunity to realign our hearts, making space for the work of the Spirit to transform us. Whether you are carrying burdens, regrets, or just the weight of everyday life, know that God's grace is bigger, and he will help us carry the load.

As we gather tonight, we come as we are, imperfect but beloved. We come not only to receive ashes but also to receive hope. We will gather for a time of fellowship and good food before the service at our "Breakfast for Dinner" Potluck at 5:30 PM in the Fellowship Hall. Then, we will assemble for our Ash Wednesday Service at 6:30 PM in the Sanctuary.

Come hungry. Come open-hearted. Come ready to begin this holy season with a renewed spirit.
 
A Prayer for Ash Wednesday:
Gracious God, as we step into this season of Lent, remind us that we are dust, and to dust we shall return. Yet in your mercy, you breathe life into us again and again. Create in us a clean heart and renew a right spirit within us. Help us to walk these forty days with humility, faith, and a deep awareness of you and your grace. In the name of Christ, we pray, Amen.
 
Jesus loves you, Union Family, and I do too!

The Prayerful Pause - February 26

"Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms." 1 Peter 4:10 (NIV)

There's something extraordinary about witnessing people using their God-given gifts to help those in need. This week, we saw a perfect example at Family Promise's signature fundraising event, La Tablé. The annual silent auction bake sale was a sight to see. Our Union bakers and those from other churches truly outdid themselves this year! As someone who does not bake, I am so thankful that you know how to bake and use your gifts to serve others. The auction tables were overflowing with cakes, cookies, brownies, pies, and breads—each one lovingly crafted and generously given to support Family Promises' transformational ministry to those experiencing homelessness.

And then, of course, there were Patti Clark and Kelly Hansford. In addition to their regular services coordinating our ministries with Family Promise, they have quietly and faithfully organized the silent auction bake sale for La Tablé for several years. Their attention to detail, creativity, and passion for helping families experiencing homelessness have made this event a highlight of La Tablé. This year, in recognition of their dedication and hard work, Patti and Kelly were named Family Promise Volunteers of the Year. What a well-deserved honor! We at Union are thankful and proud of their sacrificial and dedicated service.

This Silent Auction Bake Sale reminds us that serving God doesn’t always mean standing in the spotlight. Sometimes, it’s found in the careful mixing of ingredients, the wrapping of baked goods, or the organizing of auction tables. It’s in the meaningful acts of service that bring joy to others and help change lives.

Each of us has been given unique gifts—some bake, some organize, some encourage, and some lead. No matter what your gifts are, when you use them to serve others, you become a faithful steward of God’s love and grace.

This week, may we each look for opportunities to serve according to our giftedness, trusting that God uses every offering, big or small, for his glory.

Jesus loves you, Union Family, and I do too!

The Prayerful Pause - February 19

“Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.” – Hebrews 10:23

What helps you remain hopeful when facing uncertainty? That’s this week’s question of the week. Uncertainty is a part of life. We face moments when the future feels unsure, when circumstances seem beyond our control, and when the weight of the unknown presses upon us. It can be easy to slip into fear or doubt when we are unsure. Yet, as followers of Jesus, we are called to a different response—hope.

Throughout His life and ministry, Jesus encountered uncertainty. From His birth in a manger to the moments leading up to His crucifixion, He walked a path that would be difficult to navigate without a heart full of hope. Yet, Jesus’ heart was filled with hope and an unwavering trust in His Father. When the disciples feared a storm on the Sea of Galilee, Jesus remained calm, reminding them that faith was greater than fear. When faced with opposition from religious leaders, He continued His mission, knowing that God's plan was unfolding even when others did not understand.

So, how do we remain hopeful when facing uncertainty? Here are four faith-filled steps we can take toward hope.

Remember God’s Faithfulness – Just as Jesus trusted His Father, we can look back on how God has been faithful in our lives. The same God who has walked with us in the past will not leave us now.

Stay Rooted in Prayer – Jesus often withdrew from the crowds to pray. When we spend time with God, our fears shrink, and our trust grows.

Fix Our Eyes on the Bigger Story – Jesus’ resurrection reminds us that even when the road seems dark, God is still at work. The uncertainty we face in life is not the end of the story. Let’s ask God to give us eyes to see the larger story of how He leads us with love, even when the way forward is unclear.

Lean on Community – Jesus did not walk alone; He surrounded Himself with His disciples and friends. We also can find strength from God and each other when we journey together in faith.

If you are facing uncertainty today, remember that hope is not just a feeling—it is a choice to trust in the One who holds all things together and works all things together for good. Take heart, beloved, for He has overcome the world and wants to fill us with His hope.

Jesus loves you, Union Family and I do too!

The Prayerful Pause - February 12

"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
—Romans 8:38-39 (NIV)

As Valentine's Day approaches this week, I’ve been thinking about what real, lasting love looks like. Romantic love can be amazing, and it can also be messy and sometimes comes with heartache. But there’s one love that never changes, never gives up, and never runs out—God’s love. 

God’s love isn’t like anything else we experience. It doesn’t depend on whether we have it all together. It doesn’t fade when we make mistakes. His love is steady, strong, and always there. Here are five things to hold onto when thinking about God’s love this week.

God's Love is Unconditional
In so many relationships, love feels like something we have to earn. We try to say the right things, do the right things, and be the person others expect us to be. But God loves us exactly as we are. Before we ever turned toward him, he was already reaching out to us. His love isn't based on our goodness but on his goodness.

God's Love is Sacrificial
The deepest kind of love gives without expecting anything in return. That’s the kind of love Jesus showed when he gave his life for us. Romans 5:8 says, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” His love isn’t just words—it’s action. He gave everything so we could know that love fully.

God's Love is With Us in Hard Times
When life gets heavy, it’s easy to wonder where God is. But his love isn’t just for the good days—it’s for the hard ones too. Psalm 34:18 reminds us, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” He may not take away every struggle, but he promises to be right there in the middle of it with us.

God's Love Changes Us
Real love doesn't leave us the same. When we truly know God loves us, it changes the way we see ourselves and the ways we interact with others. His love shapes us, heals us, and helps us become more like Jesus.

God's Love Brings Us Together
One of the most beautiful things about God’s love is that it connects us. His love reminds us that we belong—not just to him, but to each other. When we live in his love, we learn to love one another as he loves us. With his love, we can forgive more easily, encourage more often, and walk alongside each other through life’s ups and downs. His love creates family, even among people who seem to have nothing in common.

Let's thank God for his incredible love this week! I am so glad I see it lived out in our life and ministry together! Jesus loves you, Union Family, and I do too!

The Prayerful Pause - February 5

I've been thinking a lot about the importance of servant leadership lately. In preparing our sermon series on the Book of Esther, I found myself inspired and challenged as we explored leadership lessons from Esther’s story and Jesus’ life and ministry.

God calls faithful servants to lead, guide, and care in every season of our ministry together. Leadership in the church is not about status or recognition—it is about answering God's call to serve with humility, courage, wisdom, and love. Just as Jesus chose and equipped his disciples for ministry, we also trust that God is already preparing the hearts of those who will step into leadership at Union in the years ahead. 

Each February and March, our Elders prayerfully begin the nomination process for the next church year. Our Elders serve as Union’s nominating committee and extend invitations to others to serve as Elders, Deacons, Administrative Officers, and At-Large members of the Church Council. Our Elders approach this task seriously, seeking to listen and discern God’s direction.

Over the next several weeks, we invite you to take part in this important process. Your participation is vital and a marker of a healthy congregational church. Here are three simple steps you can take to nominate people to serve in leadership positions at Union.

1. Prayerfully Consider – Take time to read the job descriptions for Elders, Deacons, and Administrative Officers available in the Gathering Space. Reflect on the qualities of leadership found in Scripture—faithfulness, wisdom, compassion, and a servant's heart. You can also read the e-job descriptions at the link below.                                                                       

2. Pray for Guidance – Seek God's direction as you consider who might be called to serve. Pray for those already leading and for those whom God may be preparing to step forward in faith.                                                                                                               

3. Submit a Nomination – If someone comes to mind who embodies the spirit of servant leadership, or if you feel personally called to serve, submit a nomination by February 23. Forms can be turned in to Nickie in the church office or placed in the Leadership Nomination Box in the Gathering Space.

Let us join together in prayer, trusting that God will guide us to the leaders he is calling for the next season of ministry at Union. Thank you for your faithful participation in this process! May God guide all of us to be servant leaders, following Jesus’ example in the church and wherever we go each day.

Jesus loves you, Union Family, and I do, too!

The Prayerful Pause - January 29

As February approaches, many people turn their attention to love—expressing it, celebrating it, and sharing it. For us as Christians, it’s also a time to reflect on the immeasurable, unconditional love God has for us. This love is not fleeting or dependent on what we do or don’t do; it is a constant, abiding presence in our lives.
 
When David and I were teaching overseas, I often shared a song with my students called You Are Loved by the group Stars Go Dim. Its powerful lyrics remind us that God's love remains steadfast even in our most challenging moments. The song's chorus has these words:
 
If your heart's in a thousand pieces,
If you're lost and you're far from reason,
Just look up; know you are loved.
Just look up; know you are loved.
 
This February, as a church, we want to embrace this truth and share it with our community in a tangible way through our You Are Loved project. As part of this initiative, we're reaching out to 20 young families in our community to remind them that they are deeply loved by God and by the Union Church family. To accomplish this, we will be gifting insulated red tumblers to families that we know who are without a church home. These tumblers say, “You are loved,” along with a fingerprint heart—a reminder of God's unique and personal love for each of us. These tumblers will be filled with:

• Bible verses to remind families that they are created in the Image of God and loved unconditionally by him.

• Information about Union Christian Church, including details about our youth and children’s ministries.

• Invitations to upcoming services and special events.

This outreach is not just about sharing a gift; it's about extending an invitation into a community where people can experience God's love firsthand.
 
Our youth and children will be active participants in this project. They'll help place the items in the tumblers and deliver them to families in the community.

We invite everyone in the congregation to join us in praying for these young families and for this outreach effort. Pray that God’s love will be evident in these simple gifts and that they will open the door for meaningful connections with families looking for a church home.
 
Together, let’s share the incredible truth, “You are loved.”
 
Jesus loves you, Union Family, and I do too!

The Prayerful Pause - January 22

"Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool." – Isaiah 1:18
 
There’s just something about snow, isn’t there? We've seen it twice now this winter. I know that some love snow and some don't, but it always reminds me of God’s presence. Snow wraps the world in a blanket of quiet beauty. Everything gets covered—trees, roofs, even the potholes—and for a little while, the mess of the world looks fresh and new. For me, it’s God’s way of reminding us he can take what’s ordinary (or even downright rough) and turn it into something lovely.
 
Snow also seems to whisper, “Slow down, rest a bit, and notice God’s hand at work.” Indeed, the hustle and bustle of life come to a screeching halt here in the South when snow falls. The roads clear out, plans get canceled, and the noisy rush of the day gives way to stillness. In that quiet, it’s like God is leaning in and saying, “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). Snow has a way of stopping us in our tracks and reminding us that while the world might feel out of control, God has still got it all in his hands.
 
The snow also brings a lot of fun to the young or young at heart! When we see a snow-covered yard, we think about children building a snowman, making a snow angel, or launching a snowball. There’s joy built into those moments, and it’s a reflection of the joy God wants us to have. As Ecclesiastes says, “There’s a time for everything” (3:1)—and snowy days remind us that there’s a time to rest and a time to play. Both are ways to enjoy the gracious gifts God has given us.
 
But snow isn't just about beauty and fun. It carries a deeper message, too. The prophet Isaiah reminds us that just as snow covers the ground, God's grace covers our sins. Even when our lives feel messy or broken, God can make us fresh and new each day through his love and grace.
 
So, as you look out at the snow today, let the quiet beauty of God’s creation teach you something. Curl up with a cup of hot coffee or cocoa and take in the view, or if you are up for it, bundle up and head outside to laugh and play. Whether you’re resting or rejoicing on this snow day, let it be a moment to draw near to God and hear him saying, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).
 
A Prayer for a Snowy Day:
 
Gracious and Loving God, thank you for the beauty of snow and how it reminds us of your presence, grace, and love. Help us to pause and soak in your peace. Help us play and delight in your good gifts. Help us rest in the assurance that you are making all things new. In Jesus Name, we pray, Amen.

The Prayerful Pause - January 15

We look forward to gathering for our upcoming congregational meeting on Sunday, January 26, after worship. We will consider several important matters at this meeting, including our proposed Child Protection Policy.

We are excited that our ministry with children and youth is thriving, and we take Jesus' call seriously: "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Thus, one of the primary responsibilities of our church is to ensure that we are fostering a safe and nurturing environment for our children, youth, and the dedicated volunteers who serve in these ministries. This policy is being introduced to ensure we are following best practices for protecting the well-being of everyone involved.

The development of this policy has been a thorough and thoughtful process that took about a year. Our church administrator, Nickie, worked with input from Heather and Holly to draft the policy. During the process, Nickie researched policies other churches were using and incorporated language and best practices recommended by our insurance provider. From there, the final draft of the policy was thoughtfully reviewed by the Personnel Committee and the Church Council to ensure it aligns with our mission and values. Now, we present it to you for your consideration at the called Congregational Meeting on January 26. Please take a moment to read the policy before the meeting. You can read it at the link below or pick up a printed copy in the Gathering Space.

This policy is an important step forward in our ministry with children and youth as it reflects our commitment to stewardship, safety, and the care of our youngest members and volunteers. We encourage everyone to attend the meeting and participate in this important step for our church family.

Thank you for your continued prayers and support as we seek to honor God in all we do. Please join me in continuing to pray for our children, youth, and their families!

I love you, Union Family! It's a joy to be your pastor!

The Prayerful Pause - January 8

As we settle into 2025, our January Sermon Series “For Such a Time as This” will focus on the story of Esther. Her story is one of courage, faith, and God’s providence. Though God’s name is never mentioned in the Book of Esther, his fingerprints are visible throughout every chapter, reminding us that God is always at work—even when he seems silent. This month, as we reflect on lessons from the Book of Esther in worship, let’s focus on seeking God and how he is calling us to lead with courage and faith in this new year.

Below is a prayer for us to pray together as we begin this Sermon Series. Let’s pray it with openness to the new things God may wish to do in us and through us at such a time as 2025.
 
A New Year’s Prayer: For Such a Time as This

O Lord of every season,
Here we are, standing at the entry of a brand-new year.
We don't know what it will bring, but you do,
And so we place our trust in your steady hands.
 
Use us, Lord, for such a time as this.
Make us bold like Esther, willing to step forward,
Even when the way is uncertain.
Plant our feet on paths of love and grace,
And teach us to walk humbly with you each day.
 
May our hearts be soft and ready to listen to your call.
May our hands be open, ready to share what we've been given.
May our voices be strong and ready to speak truth and kindness.
And may our lives be rooted in your great purpose,
So that everything we do points back to you.
 
This year, Lord, let us be your people—
A light in the darkness, a shelter in the storm,
A helping hand to the weary,
And a song of hope for the brokenhearted.
Guide us, Lord, and grow us in your love.
Use us, shape us, send us—
For such a time as this.
 
In Jesus’ name, we pray,
Amen.

The Prayerful Pause - December 18

Each Wednesday in Advent, I will share a prayer for us to pray together as a church family. The theme of this week’s prayer is joy since we lit the candle of joy this past Sunday in worship. As you pray this week’s prayer of joy, may God fill your heart with the joy that only Jesus can bring.  I love you, Union family, and pray that your week is filled with the joy of the Lord.
 
Lord, we come to you just as we are. Some of us feel tired, others are full of delight at this time of year. Yet, all of us are looking for your joy to guide us forward. You, God, are the one who plants joy in our hearts. Even when life feels heavy and hard, your joy breaks through like flowers growing in the cracks of the sidewalk.
 
We thank you for the little things in life—stars shining on a cold night, children laughing as they play, the warmth of holding someone’s hand, and the courage to keep going when life feels challenging. You remind us that “the joy of the Lord is our strength,” and we hold on to that promise. Real joy isn’t just a passing feeling. It’s a steady confidence that you are with us and can always be trusted.
 
O God, during this season of waiting, may your joy give us the strength we need to love others, to share your light, and to trust you on the journey. You are the source of our joy. You are our Emmanuel, God with us! We love you and thank you for your joy, not only during this season, but each day.
 
 With hearts full of the joy of Jesus, we say Amen.