Every ornament tells a story. That’s the basic philosophy of my Christmas tree. During this Christmas season (and I’m including the church calendar Christmas season, which goes to January 6), I am introducing you to some of my favorites and sharing the story behind them. So far, I have shared ornaments from my parents, grandparents, and aunt and uncle.
Today’s ornament is one of my newest ornaments. I made this one myself at the end of last year’s Christmas season. Sometime in the fall, I saw this idea on Pinterest made with a wedding invitation or program as a wedding gift. As soon as I saw it, I knew I wanted to make one for myself with my ordination bulletin/liturgy. My ordination was on January 1, 2012—one year ago today. The next week I made myself this ornament. It was probably my favorite to pull out of the box this year, because it reminded me of that joyous day. The day the church said: “Yes! We publicly affirm God’s call in your life to serve in ordained ministry.” The day that I vowed to love, serve, and lead the church. It was one of the most important days of my life, and this ornament reminds me of it.
As I look back at one year of ordination, it has been a hard year and a joyful year. I have seen human brokenness in new ways. I have been stretched and wondered if I could do this for the rest of my life. I have mined God’s Word for his word to us in this time and place. I have been honored to be with people as they spend their first few months in this country. I have been blessed by the love and support of the church council. I have watched young leaders grow. So even though it isn’t an easy calling, today I reaffirm my vows.
With God helping me, I believe that in the call of this congregation God himself calls me to this holy ministry.
With God helping me, I believe that the Old and New Testaments are the Word of God, the only infallible rule of faith and life.
With God helping me, I subscribe to the doctrinal standards of this church, rejecting all teaching which contradicts them.
With God helping me, I promise to be a faithful minister, to conduct myself in a manner worthy of my calling, and to submit to the government and discipline of the church. (CRCNA Form for Ordination of Ministers)
Thanks be to God!
