Perception and Reality
Perception and Reality
In this increasingly relativistic cauldron we call “the world,” a lot of anxiety and insecurity is fueled by the notion that everyone is entitled (encouraged?) to form their own reality based primarily, if not solely, on their individual perceptions. It goes something like this: “The way I see the world is the world as it is.”
“Perception is reality” has become an almost universal cultural assumption, leaving little room for things that may be objectively and ultimately real but don’t match perceptions. C. S. Lewis had little patience for this idea, noting, “You cannot go against the grain of reality and not expect to get splinters.” Reality is reality regardless of how I see things.
In this week’s Epistle, St. John, seeking to encourage seven churches struggling in the cauldron of the Roman Empire, writes something that’s objectively and ultimately real, but may not have matched the perceptions of his original readers much more than it does ours today: “Jesus Christ…the ruler of kings on earth”.
Really?!? Putin? Xi? Kim? Assad? Those closer to home who shall remain nameless? (I’m not foolhardy.)
Hmmm…
See you Sunday.
Steve+
Q-1 Financial Snapshot
Redeemer’s finances remain sound as of the end of March. Year-to-date expenses are just slightly above budget, principally due to obligations such as insurance and other fees that are front-ended every year. We knew going in that our 2022 giving commitments were slightly short of our budget numbers, and revenue has entirely met those commitments (thank you!). Considering these these two factors, after making some downward spending adjustments the Vestry has formally approved our 2022 budget. We are, however, facing the reality that even with a pared down budget we anticipate a potential 2022 deficit in the range of $20,000 - $25,000.
We have moved forward in faith for two reasons: 1. In Redeemer’s 12 years God has always faithfully provided every cent we've needed. We've never ended the year in a deficit, and have always diligently socked away whatever surplus we've received, and; 2. Because of this, we have the cash on hand to more than meet such a deficit. If the Lord puts it on your heart to help us reduce this shortfall, however, you’d be an answer to prayer.
Seeking: Teachers' Assistants for Children's Formation
As a community, we are all called to aid in the growth and raising of our youngest members and we commit to it as a church when we engage in the sacrament of baptism. Currently, we have four teachers rotating in our one Children's Formation class. We'd like to expand to two classes broken up by age 5 through 2nd grade and 3rd through 5th grade. We need four to eight volunteers to assist our teachers and abide by our policy of two adults in every children's class. This role is simple and really requires nothing more than a genuine willingness to help. Prayerfully consider if this is a way you could engage our young believers. Contact Karissa Simmons.