This weekend was filled with a diversity of congregational visits. Friday evening was spent with the leadership at First Sagrada Familia. Saturday afternoon, we had a second meeting of the leadership from the four congregations in Bosque County. And today was the big event of my weekend – a visit to Immanuel Lutheran in Killeen.

While the first two gatherings were filled with productive conversations and the building of relationships, Sunday’s visit was all about pure joy. Pr. Ray Zischang retired this month, which means Immanuel is in a time of transition. Hence, my visit there. I led worship and introduced their interim pastor Frederick Hill. The congregation had a potluck breakfast in between services so the members could meet Pr. Hill and also have time to chat with me. We did a prayer of blessing for Pr. Hill’s time of ministry in Killeen. But my very favorite thing was leading the worship and preaching. This congregation was filled with joy even as they have had to say goodbye to their long-time pastor.

That joy was evident in the optimism of their leadership, in the gifted and wonderful music in worship, and very much in the two dozen or so kids who came up for the children’s message (including the confirmation students who beat the little ones in coming forward!). I wish I had thought to grab my camera for the kids, but I was busy trying to keep up with them. High energy, indeed!

This congregation has so many gifts, and will be an excellent opportunity for some fortunate pastor to come. They sure did bless me today.