Faith and Flooring

The new floor in the Wesley building lobby is almost completely installed. This project is part of a long process we started this year of updating the lobby with paint, furniture, decorations, and, of course, new floors. Thank you to everyone who contributed their volunteer labor and funds for this much needed project.

But, the flooring project was most interesting to me. I never really thought about the floor until my attention was directed to it. My eyes rarely looked down, I only saw the need for paint and other eye-catching décor. Our project coordinator said, “We need to do this. The original brown tiles have turned green!” Really? Green? So I walked to the building and turned my head down. Sure enough, it was obvious. I saw the green haze on every single tile in the room. Fourteen years of sunlight damaged the color and finish of the tiles. Now I can’t stop seeing it every time I walk through that space. Many of you told me you, too, never noticed the ugly green haze until I brought it up in worship.

We didn’t notice the need for new flooring until someone called our attention to it.

The same is true of our Christian life. We are about halfway through the season of Lent and I’ve been preaching about avoiding the seven deadly sins and encouraging the seven virtues. I’m calling attention to the spiritual equivalent of our ugly green flooring that we need to renovate.

This season and this sermon series made me look at my own weaknesses and need for Christ’s grace. When I preached about gluttony, I became acutely aware of my absent-minded snacking and unhealthy choices on my plate. When I preached about envy and greed, I saw all the places in my heart where I was obsessed with other people’s successes and my own unhealthy desire for material things. This week–Wrath and Patience. Lord have mercy on me! I have felt wrath more times over the last couple of years than ever before in my life. Maybe you have, too.

I’m grateful for this Lenten season even if it is unpleasant to face the places I need to do better in my spirit. We need sermons and people and disciplines to help us look at the weak or broken places we never notice. I’m thankful to God for the opportunity to rip it out those ugly places out and start anew with Christ’s forgiveness, love, and grace. Thank God for the renovation of the spirit and happy Lent to us all!

Peace,
Rev. Zack

As a Youth Director, I often find solace in reflecting on my deep roots in the church and my extensive involvement in the youth group—a tradition passed down from my parents and grandparents, who themselves served as youth leaders. Presently, our youth at FUMC are immersed in a series exploring the complexities of relationships.

My formative years at Smyrna Presbyterian, a church much like ours in size, were characterized by the vibrant camaraderie of our youth group. Together, we embarked on meaningful missions, reveled in spirited games, and shared in both laughter and tears, unwittingly forging bonds that have endured over time. During my senior year, the arrival of a new pastor brought his son, Miles, whose passion for the outdoors mirrored my own. What began as friendship soon blossomed into romance, culminating in our marriage sixteen years ago.

However, Miles was not the only relationship I formed within our youth group. Since our relocation to Rutledge eight years ago, five other cherished members of our youth group have also made this community their home, enriching our lives in countless ways. Most recently, a dear friend from New Mexico joined our ranks, further reinforcing the enduring bonds of fellowship that have united us since our early church days. He joined us as a volunteer for our indoor rock climbing day.

While the demands of raising families and pursuing careers may have led to periods of less frequent communication, our friendships remained steadfast. Each reunion transported us back to our high school youth group, united by shared experiences and unwavering faith in Christ.

“Put your outdoor work in order and get your fields ready; after that, build your house.” (Proverbs 24:27)

Now, I have the privilege of witnessing our youth at FUMC build similar relationships with each other. As you know relationships and teenage years often can be difficult But These teens are putting in the work they are showing up to youth engaged and recently our group is getting even bigger. They are laying the groundwork for strong foundations in Christ, forging lasting friendships and creating unforgettable memories here at FUMC. It is such an honor to watch them laugh and have fun together all while worshiping Jesus.

Cheers,

Jen Buzbee
jenb@madisonfumc.com