This is another big week at Our Savior's! So far this month we have heard our choirs sing and witnessed our children telling the Christmas story. Now, this Sunday, we will have the opportunity to take part in the installation of our new Lead Pastor, Dale Stiles.

The text that frames our day is appropriate; the angel Gabriel visits a young woman and tells her that she is blessed and will be the mother of a son who will be great. According to many biblical scholars, this is a wonderful example of a "call" text; one that describes how God calls one into ministry. Mary is lifted up throughout the book of Luke not for being an ideal mother, but rather for being obedient and faithful to God. This is a beautiful image for all of us, not just Mary or Pastor Dale, because it focuses our attention on faithfulness rather than role.

We have already been blessed by Pastor Dale's presence in our congregation; his preaching, pastoral care, and teaching have touched many in these first few weeks. He has shown leadership in planning and taking stock of the ministries that are in place. More than any of these official roles and duties, however, he has shown the willingness to be an obedient servant; not merely to the staff, board, or congregation, but first and foremost to the God who asked him to take on this role.

This installation, and this text, are a call to all of us, not just Pastor Dale. As we promise to support his ministry among us, we also promise that we will be a part of that ministry. As he promises to lead the congregation, we will hear an invitation to follow and be active witnesses to Christ in our own lives. It is a powerful event for this Advent season, but do not be afraid, for you are highly favored and the Lord is with you!

~Pastor Dawn Alitz