Living in the Midwest is a comedy of weather swings. In one week, we swung from the mid-70s to tornadoes and hail to temperatures in the teens. When we moved here a few years ago, I knew what I was signing up for with Midwest weather, but I never ceased being entertained. During Tuesday night’s storm, my boys had a blast collecting handfuls of hail as well as shooting laser pointers up in the sky to see the outline of the storm clouds. I have enjoyed all the weather swings, there is never a dull moment. 

Church life is rarely dull, either. Most days are filled with excitement and some days are stormier. But I have the sense that Spring is in the air at Good Shepherd. Our offices and staff are filled with joy and enthusiasm for the future. We are hopeful for the days ahead and are nourished by the energy that fills our worship spaces on Sunday mornings.

Spring is good. Soon, we will celebrate our risen Lord on Easter Sunday, and we will be reminded that God is a God of Spring.

I experience Spring through you and your generosity, Good Shepherd. Through your actions, big and small, you embody what it means to be the church that Jesus envisioned.

Our staff has felt the tangible love and care of the Good Shepherd community in so many ways. Every Thursday at 10am, our staff gathers for a time of fellowship, sharing, and vision casting for what we call Staff Connect.  The weekly gathering has included treats provided by our congregation, and we have felt the love and care through the coffee and egg casseroles and sweet treats. What a blessing it has been. Each week, we are blown away by the amazing food you have provided. 

On behalf of the rest of the staff, I also want to thank you for the thoughtful Christmas gifts you provided for our staff – a heartwarming display of your appreciation and support. In addition, the emails of encouragement, gift cards, cups of coffee, and cards left in our mailboxes have been a constant reminder of the love that binds our community together. These acts of kindness are a reflection of your cross-shaped-hearts.

Looking ahead, I am excited about the opportunities for us to continue being the hands and feet of Jesus in our community. Our church-wide serve experience at Feed the Need is fast approaching, and I am thrilled to see the enthusiasm and engagement from so many of you through your sign-ups. This event promises to be a powerful time of service and storytelling, reflecting the heart of our church in action.

Moreover, I want to extend two ways for you to continue making a difference:

1. Weekly Staff Connect Treats: Our Staff Connect meetings every Thursday at 10am have become a cherished time for our team, thanks in part to the delicious treats provided by you, our church family. To keep this tradition going, we invite you to sign up HERE to bring treats for our staff. It’s a simple yet meaningful way to show your support and care for those who serve our church.

2. Easter Bash: Mark your calendars for Saturday, March 16th, for our Easter Bash. This event is a wonderful opportunity for us to serve and connect with our community in a festive and meaningful way. We need volunteers to help make this event a success, from setting up to leading games, and more. Serving at our Easter Bash is a great way to embody the love and hospitality of Jesus. Sign up here!

In each of these opportunities, you are not just volunteering your time or resources; you are being the church in the most beautiful and impactful way. Your participation is a testament to the vibrant and caring community we have at Good Shepherd. I’m blessed to call myself your pastor, Good Shepherd. I love you more than you know.

From my heart,

Pastor Tara Beth