Love and service in a gray world

Outside my window, the snow is falling in a mess of flurries, reminding me that it is only March and the vibrancy of spring will continue to hibernate. It is winter and the world is gray.

In fact, much of life feels gray much of the time. Topics such as gender roles, sexuality, health care, servanthood, family life, vocation (and the list goes on) are not so black and white — even within the Mennonite Church. Like the never-ending winter, it makes one weary.

How refreshing to read about a young couple who live simply. This is not to say that their lives aren’t busy. No, in fact, the opposite must be true. Not only are Jared and Angela Stauffer Widmer newlyweds who moved to a new state and started new jobs, but they are serving as housemates to developmentally disabled women. They are simply choosing to dwell in the Word, pray and follow God’s leading.

How refreshing to gather with a group of pastors who believe the truth of the Bible. “Affirming the Faith: What the Mennonite Church Believes about Homosexuality” was a one-day conference where pastors from the Eastern District and Franconia Conferences reminded attendees of the power of Scripture to convict the church and transform lives.

How refreshing to watch people give generously. Though time is precious and money is tight, people responded to Haiti immediately. When people are in need, differences are temporarily set aside so that the best assistance is offered. All aid is welcome and significant. Each act becomes a story of hope and inspiration.

How refreshing to get back to the basics of living and loving.

Perhaps spring is in the air with all its glorious vibrancy. — Heidi Martin