November 24 Update from Eliana Maxim

Dear Friends,

I recently shared with our Executive Board some reflections on a particular line about the role of presbyteries in our Book of Order. “The presbytery is responsible for the government of the church throughout its district, and for assisting and supporting the witness of congregations to the sovereign activity of God in the world, so that all congregations become communities of faith, hope, love, and witness.” (G-3.0301) (emphasis mine) 

I was struck by that line as I considered the work our presbytery staff and leadership take on. There are always to do lists being created (and added on to), agendas coordinated, conflict to be managed, meetings to attend, transitions to be planned, and on and on. These are all important and necessary tasks for the work to get done and leadership to take place. But that line from the Book of Order stuck with me – how are we witnessing to the sovereign activity of God in the world? Where are we seeing God at work in and amongst us? 

Personally, in this season of life, my obvious answer to that question is the recent birth of my grandson, particularly when I watch my parents holding him. 

But it’s also in witnessing a church’s session wrestle with their role and find their voice and authority to be the spiritual leaders they were ordained to be; or the rallying and support of colleagues around a pastor who is struggling with grief, providing them with space and time to heal without the congregation lacking leadership; or a congregation grappling with its racist history and how institutional white supremacy contributed to its growth and power; or a congregational leader making their way through restoration and reconciliation after a disciplinary matter. God is in all those places. God continues to be in all our places. 

As we mark another Thanksgiving holiday, whether with family and friends, or quietly on our own, I invite you to join me in hitting the pause button on the busy, technical aspects of leadership. Let us set aside our to do lists and spreadsheets, breathe deeply, and point to where God is present and actively engaging the world. For this we can be thankful, and what a blessing that needs not be relegated to one day in the year, but all times. In that way we may indeed heed Paul’s urging, “rejoice in the Lord always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ for you.” 

Grateful for you, your congregations, and your witness to God’s sovereign activity in the world! 

Grace and peace, 

Rev. Eliana Maxim
Co-Executive Presbyter