2024/08/11 SCRIPTURE REFLECTION
Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
- Katie Bak, Sr. Director of Admin & Facilities
1 Kings 19:4-8 presents a poignant image of Elijah, a prophet of God, in a moment of profound despair. Exhausted, physically and spiritually, he retreats into the wilderness. There, under a broom tree, he requests death, feeling utterly alone and forsaken. Yet, in this depth of desolation, God reveals Himself, not in a dramatic display of power, but in a gentle whisper, as he often does to us too.
The summer is a very busy time for the facilities and operations team as we prepare to welcome students back into school, in addition to our Dome renovation project and all the other things we have going on around campus this passage feels very timely as we often comment there’s “always something” keeping our team busy. Whether it’s a leak in an AC unit, plaster falling in the church or regular facilities needs, there is always something needing our attention. Thankfully, with God on our side and the best, hardworking team we could ask for, we are able to tackle anything that comes our way. This passage and season of life in facilities also reminds me of one of my favorite praise and worship songs, "Way Maker". Its lyrics speak of God as a constant, unwavering presence in our lives, and reminds us that even when we can’t see him, he’s working.
Like Elijah, we all may find ourselves in the wilderness from time to time, but like him too, we can discover our Way Maker’s gentle whisper, offering us strength, hope, and the courage to continue our journey. Each day, I also try to remind myself that God's work is often quiet and unseen. Like the whisper to Elijah, God's presence might not be immediately apparent amidst the energy, excitement and busyness of different seasons of life. However, it is in moments of quiet reflection and prayer that we are most likely to hear God's voice. During this season of life, I’m working hard to carve out time each day to sit with God to truly hear what He is trying to tell me, and I invite each of you to do the same!