I’m still recovering, but thankfully improving, from an infection that knocked me about last week. To the point that, come Saturday morning I had to admit: I wouldn’t be doing myself or the congregation any favors by trying to be there Sunday.
I’ve only had to do that one other time, and thankfully the Rev. Dr. Carol Cook Moore was kind, generous, and up to the task of stepping in with little notice. But even knowing you were in good-if-not-better hands, it was a hard thing to ask for, a hard thing to let go of. Much as I know being sick is basically out of my control, I still hate when I can’t meet the expectations I am committed to, not least those I feel called to.
It’s why I found it surprisingly delightful to reach a point Sunday morning when I slept through worship. Instead of feeling stressed or guilty, I was able to rest and give myself the experience of healing, the gift offered to me to take the time I needed for my health.
That’s got me thinking about the many others that offered me similar gifts over the last week. Those of you who reached out to ask if I needed anything, those who stepped up to cover other needs I couldn’t meet, those who offered me patience as things took longer – or are still taking longer – than normal. Those who prayed for me, and continue to pray for my recovery, for my treatments, in addition to our shared ministry here at First Bonita. I felt the love and support of this community, and I am grateful.
My thanks to you all. And since I don’t plan on sleeping through worship this Sunday, I hope to see you there.
Rev. Ben Richards
