The Beatitudes

Dear Friends in Christ,
 
It has been a tough last few weeks here in our Commonwealth. Many St. Georgians may have seen Bishop Goff’s message this week: “Racism in the Commonwealth - Prayer in the midst of Pain”, speaking specifically about Governor Northam and Attorney General Herring’s use of blackface (1). Staffers to Lieutenant Governor Fairfax have been resigning rapidly following a second credible allegation of sexual assault in his past (2).
 
Our text this Sunday is the story of the Beatitudes from Luke’s Gospel, chapter six. Before Jesus’ speech gets underway, we are told about the crowd: “They had come to hear him and to be healed of their diseases”
 
It is easy to feel overwhelmed by difficulty or disease. For me the Beatitudes are a reminder that even in the midst of difficulty, God can still bring healing and new life into our world. St. George’s is thriving. We are blessed with so many kind and thoughtful individuals who give their attention to effective and powerful service.  There are a variety of gifts here, all being woven together in God’s good purposes. Haley and I are thrilled to share that we are expecting a second child. Life is beautiful and good.  I hope you can join me in saying, in the midst of our challenges, “Thanks be to God.”
 
Blessings,
John
 

(1)http://www.thediocese.net/news/racism-in-the-commonwealth-prayer-in-the-midst-of-pain/

(2) https://www.newyorker.com/news/news-desk/virginia-democrats-are-still-trying-to-sort-this-out