Minute for Mission: Metropolitan/Urban Ministry
After walking across the scattered shards of what was our 20-foot Ascension window, two New York City reporters asked, “Do you think God caused this tornado to hit your church?”
We were speechless. Our church was founded in Brooklyn, New York, one hundred years ago by brave Syrian-Americans who wanted to make a commitment to God in their new home. This church had survived the struggles of immigrants, the rise and fall of the urban economy, and the changing demographics of the neighborhood. This congregation of around one hundred people representing five continents was mystified by the question. What could the reporters have meant?
After study and prayer, it is not our belief that our good and loving God brings natural disasters upon people so that they may suffer. In fact, our history and experiences have taught us quite the opposite. God brings us through our challenges. We believe, as in Psalm 46, that “God is in the midst of the city... God will help it when the morning dawns.”
The aftermath of the tornado solidified this belief as we received overwhelming compassion and support in countless ways from our neighbors, whether they lived in a penthouse or on a city bench, whether they worshiped in a church or a mosque, whether they were black or white. We understood this to be an affirmation of our various ministries and, more significantly, proof that God — our ever-present help — is in the midst of the city.
A year later, beneath a partially restored stained-glass window still lacking an ascending Jesus, we remain certain that God raises us. Consequently, we continue exuberantly worshiping God and joyously serving the community.
—Rev. David Aja-Sigmon, pastor, Fourth Avenue Presbyterian Church, Brooklyn, New York
God, in those moments when all around us swirls, when the nations are in an uproar, when it is not clear where to step, may we not be fearful. May we be transformed by your love and sent by your Spirit to a world in need of your peace. In the name of Jesus, your Son, we pray. Amen.
2 Sam. 11:1–15
Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah
PH 281, HB 339, WB 409
Ps. 14
I Will Call upon the Lord
STF 2002
Eph. 3:14–21
He Who Began a Good Work in You
STF 2163
John 6:1–21
Cuando el Pobre
(When a Poor One)
PH 407
Daily Lectionary
Ps. 67, 150 Ps. 46, 93
2 Sam. 1:17–27
Rom. 12:9–21; Matt. 25:31–46 |
