Weekly Letters from the Pastor

Mystery Bags...

Each Sunday morning during our 10:00 worship service, a child presents the “Mystery Bag” during the children’s moment. It is a tradition I inherited when I became your pastor. Truthfully, while I had heard of it before, I never had the nerve to implement it in any of the previous churches I served. It sounded a bit daunting and… well… mysterious.

As it turns out, I quite enjoy it. Granted, the mystery still leaves me baffled from time to time (and I know some of you enjoy watching me sweat a little too much!). But as I ponder what I truly love about the Mystery Bag, it isn't the intellectual challenge (even though it keeps my mind sharp and my spirit humble). Nor is it the energy the suspense brings.

It’s the smile on the child’s face when they hand me the bag. It’s their willingness to help me find meaning and spiritual connection in both ordinary items and prized possessions. It’s knowing they trust me with something that matters to them. Most of all, it’s the reminder that when we sit and talk with one another, even for a few moments, we get to witness the beauty of God’s love, mercy, and grace. (And there’s no mystery in that!)