Everything needs a maintenance check. Houses, cars, churches, and other big-ticket items come with instructions and timelines on upkeep. It can be costly when we ignore those checkups. Sometimes we can reverse or repair the damage. Other times the damage is permanent.
We are good at looking after our tangible property. We’re getting better at maintaining our physical bodies. But we don’t always do a good job in maintaining the well-being of the relationships in our communities.
Women of the ELCA’s purpose statement could serve as a maintenance checklist.
“As a community of women created in the image of God, called to discipleship in Jesus Christ, and empowered by the Holy Spirit, we commit ourselves to grow in faith, affirm our gifts, support one another in our callings, engage in ministry and action, and promote healing and wholeness in the church, the society, and the world.”
When you feel led to comment on social media, wait 60 seconds to consider if your response brings insight or comfort to those created in the image of God. When we have ground rules for our community, we can talk about anything.
This message is excerpted from “Wait 60 seconds before commenting” by Valora K. Starr from the September 23, 2019, blog of the Women of the ELCA. Today we commemorate John Chrysostom, Bishop of Constantinople, 407.
There’s still time to register to attend the Just Love Gathering in Phoenix, Arizona, September 21-24, 2023. Will we see you there?
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