November 2016

Dear Oak Lane Family,

From the 65th chapter of Isaiah…

“For I am about to create new heavens and a new earth; the former things shall not be remembered or come to mind. But be glad and rejoice forever in what I am creating; for I am about to create Jerusalem as a joy, and its people as a delight. I will rejoice in Jerusalem, and delight in my people; no more shall the sound of weeping be heard in it, or the cry of distress…. Before they call I will answer, while they are yet speaking I will hear.”

When the prophet Isaiah penned these beautiful words, he was speaking at a time of great upheaval. Isaiah was speaking to the faithful remnant of followers who had returned to Jerusalem, after 40 years in exile, only to find their temple in ruins. These were the words spoken in the midst of fear and despair. They grieved a future that was not supposed to be.

Our nation is in the grips of a presidential transition that some welcome with excitement and others react in fear and trepidation. The future of our nation is uncertain. But as Isaiah so beautifully described, God’s future is not uncertain. God is already at work, redeeming what is and creating what will be. We already know how the story will turn out.

We in the church remember that God holds our future. God’s future is not hateful or dismissive or confused. God’s vision is creative, participatory, and filled with joy.

That is the future we claim and that is the future we build, with God’s help, here at Oak Lane Presbyterian Church.

Let us move into our future, with hope and with joy, keeping our eyes and hearts fixed on God’s vision. Let us be faithful to the work before us, as we participate in God’s story for all humanity.

In Christ,

Rev. Judith

Rev. Judith Brackett can be reached by calling or emailing the church office, or by calling (610 747-0366) or emailing (revjudithbrackett@gmail.com).