Dear Friends
Last night the weather folks were warning of a giant spring storm that would knock buds off trees and damage daffodils and other flowers.  You know the type – 18 inches of wet, heavy snow that dos damage before it melts quickly the next day.

In life, sometimes we experience such damage as well.  Maybe we make a mistake and our self talk or the criticism of others knocks us down.  Maybe we have a hard time just getting done what needs to get done.  Maybe we are embarrassed or hopeless.  Lots of things can damage our hearts.

It is part of what we do in community when we support each other through storms.  Jesus calmed the storms on the sea but also in people’s spirits.  We learn how to be there for one another, how to listen to each other, and how to be a calming presence in a chaotic life.

One of the reasons we are connected to a congregation and the mission center is to love and be loved.  We can remind each other that love is the way of Christ and that all beings are of worth.  When our branches are hit by storm, we can be the ones who knock off the snow and nurture the bloom.

Interestingly, last night the storm didn’t come.  I woke up to a slightly dewy lawn and intact flowering trees.  I realized that sometimes we prepare for the worst when really all we will get is a little rain.  I’m thankful for my church community every day.  I know that, storm or sun, I’m a part of something bigger than me and that I’m called to be shelter and support.

Have a good weekend.

With love,
Shandra Newcom
President
Rocky Mountain Mission Center