A note from Patti Gatzke

The past two years I have been on a path of spiritual exploration and growth – what some would call Soul Care. It hasn’t been through a specific Bible study, although I have spent more time in God’s Word. It hasn’t been a course in theology. It has been a time of accepting Jesus’ invitation to experience His love, walk with Him and notice His presence in all parts of my life. It is something that we all need in the midst of our busy lives. So, what does that look like?

Soul Care will look different for each of us and I am certainly not an expert but am learning. For me it has meant surrendering my need to control situations - “fix” things for others - and spending more time with Jesus. Sometimes that means sitting in solitude and contemplative prayer reflecting on where He has shown up in my day but other times I may see and feel Jesus’s presence in the flowers and birds in my backyard while I’m washing dishes. I also feel Jesus’ presence in people – particularly friends from Hope City – and community. As we share our lives, support one another, and reach out into the community Jesus is there. The major shift that has happened for me is that I am more intentional in noticing where Jesus/God is at work in this crazy world and am so grateful. There is no question in my mind that God loves us, is always present in our lives, and wants the best for us even when times are tough – we just need to take the time to notice.

Paul is very clear on this in his letter to the Christians in Rome:

“So, here’s what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life --- your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life --- and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. Don’t become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You’ll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you.” (Romans 12:1-3)

Jesus invites us to accept His love and walk with Him through the many ups and downs of life. His presence is what has gotten me through many things, giving me peace. I hope that you will accept His invitation, care for your soul, and find His peace. Jesus is patiently waiting for you.

Blessings for a wonderful summer.

Patti Gatzke
Volunteer | Hope City Church