How is it going?
So, how IS it going? If you press me, my new answer is: "Well enough." Are we growing? God only knows. I don't even know what that question is asking. I can barely remember my zip code. Abstract numbers aren't my thing. I prefer names. We do seem to be paying the bills, but it is always tight, the future is always uncertain. We are not breaking any records. I am sure of that. There are lots of empty pews on Sundays. There are some dusty classrooms that are not being used. Parts of the building are in serious disrepair even as others are sparkling new. But God's Word is preached and heard here. His Body and Blood are offered and received. Sinners are forgiven, even, (thanks be to God!) me. The angels sing with us. I think that is good enough. I think that is what matters.
God is providing. It is going well enough. God is very good at being God. He knows what He is doing and He is true to His Word. Thus has He made this the perfect place for imperfect people. I am tempted to say, that in some ways, it could not be better. It is perfect in its imperfection. So bring your family and friends and neighbors. God knows they are hurting, they are imperfect, even if they don't look it. Now is as good of a time as any for them, and you, to come back. As empty as the pews might be, they are still full of sinners. We can make a little room. We always have coffee. And we will let them sit in the back. Week after week, we give treasures where moth and rust do not destroy. Week after week, salvation is handed out for free.
Pr. Petersen's statement is about as non-mega church as it comes. He recognizes the church isn't numbers, isn't facilities. As a matter of point, there are no gauges or standards to measure his progress as pastor. For that matter, there is no outward standard for Christian living. At least not one that is obtainable. The whole "WWJD?" slogan thing is comedic to me. There is no way you or I could ever complete anything in the matter or completion of Christ. Fact is the question should be "What DID Jesus Do?", that is his life, suffering, death, resurrection and ascension to the right hand of the Father.
Pr. Petersen faithfully proclaims our inability to do what Jesus did and the gift of Christ's perfection imputed to us in our Baptism. He shares this with his members every sunday in the Eucharist. He has no need to be concerned. Visible earthly signs or standards indicate our opinion of God's success. Rather we continue in the way he has taught us, living in the grace given in our baptism, leaving the care and growth of the church in his hands.
