I just celebrated my 32nd birthday and I was overwhelmed by the wishes, cards and phone calls that I got from people. One of the cards said, “We hope that your 32nd birthday is a special one. May the day serve to remind you of the blessing you are to all those that surround you…” The truth is that the person who sent me the card, even though they called me a blessing, actually is a blessing to me.
I always get energized when I see people fired up about doing God’s mission. I am truly blessed to know some of these amazing people who are giving and sharing their time and talent to make sure that the world knows about God’s love and forgiveness. Maybe my job as a pastor is to inspire people, but the people in my congregation often inspire me as a pastor and help me to be a better leader. God works in very mysterious ways. Thanks be to God.
Pastor Gabi
Happy belated birthday Father Gabi. You don’t know me but we share a close birthday – I am Sept. 15. I came across St. Elias and thus Faith Lutheran through the Interfaith Refugee & Immigration Ministry site. I’m an American with a heart for those who are resettling around the globe. I don’t speak Arabic (yet), but hope to some day. I may visit Faith Lutheran and with say hi if I stop in.
Be well. Pacem.