Newsletter Thoughts October 4, 2025
- Pastor Nancy Switzler
- Oct 7
- 2 min read
Hello friends,
While flying home from our vacation, I looked out my window just as we were flying over Lake Powell. I took the photo to show Scott who was sitting in an aisle seat. After looking at the shot I was pleasantly surprised at the photo quality. This was a reminder that sometimes; in just doing something ordinary, we are rewarded with something beautiful.
As I think about it, I can remember many occasions when I did something I was not very excited to do. Maybe I could even say I was reluctant to do this thing or go to that event. But part of me also knew that showing up was important. I’m thinking of nights out with friends, family functions, seminars, running events. There have been so many occasions where I was pleasantly surprised and thankful that I was there.
Most recently I experienced this at our synod assembly. There was a workshop about property. That didn’t sound exciting at all! But Tiffany and I went (reluctantly, saying it’s only an hour!). Both of us were happy to have learned some things while also discovering a resource for ALC. All because we showed up!
Here’s another example. A few years ago, I went to my first Pride event in Los Angeles. Not having participated before, I was a bit nervous. I wore my clergy shirt (under a Lutheran t-shirt), worked in the Lutherans Concerned booth and had a wonderful afternoon. At one point I was walking among the booths and a man stopped me. He was a t-shirt vender and told me that he had been raised in a Lutheran Church in Burbank. At the time I was not familiar with ALC, but I’m pretty sure this was the church he described.
As an adult he has moved out of state, and he no longer participates in a faith community. I asked him why not, and with tears in his eyes he responded that his company makes all kinds of custom shirts and the messages that are often printed on orders for Christian organizations make it clear that he, as a gay man, is not welcome.
I shared a different Christian message with this man. One that assures that he is indeed precious to God. We hugged and I went on my way. I don’t know anything more about this man, but I am thankful that I showed up that day.
What about you? When have you been pleasantly surprised when you showed up for something?
I would love to hear your stories. Meanwhile, I am looking forward to seeing you on Sunday.
Peace in Christ,
Pastor Nancy
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