Dear New Hope,

A couple years ago, my family and I were on vacation in Naples, Florida.  One morning we went to an orange grove and after selecting our products, went to check out.  We started conversing with the woman at the register and found out that this was her seasonal job during the winter, but her home was in Michigan.  When she found out we were from Michigan, she wanted to know which city, to which we responded, “Traverse City.”  “Really,” she said, “I’m from Traverse City too!”  When we asked where she lived, she indicated that their home was “in Acme near the Resort.”  This was remarkable, I told her, because “I work just north of the Resort at New Hope.”  Then came the question: “Oh,” she exclaimed, “so, do you know Craig Trierweiler?”

I have to confess, this was an awkward question to answer.  Should I admit to knowing who I am?  Do I admit that I am…me?  Do I confess that I know Craig, but conceal the fact that I am him?  Do I pretend that I don’t know myself, and wait to see what she thinks of me?

Well, I responded: “Yes I know Craig.  I am him.”  When she realized it was me, standing at the orange grove in Florida, she felt a bit embarrassed.  But, to her credit, she had only been to New Hope a few times and while on vacation I look much different with a hat backwards.  (Fast forward = that woman and her husband now come to New Hope regularly!)

I share that story because in Mark 6, Jesus and his disciples go on vacation to a desolate place to rest.  They seek a place of anonymity, but the exact opposite happens.  Everybody knows Him!  Everyone recognizes Him.  Wherever Jesus went, large crowds knew exactly who he was.  And the plans they had to rest and refuel got altered by the needs of people.

So, how do you respond when your plans get altered by needy people?  How do you handle situations where your schedule is interrupted by delays or demands that others place on you?  The disciples had a plan:  “Send them away.”  (See, we’re not so unlike them!).  Jesus also had a plan: “You give them something.” 

The disciples valued rest above the needs of people.  Jesus valued needs of people even over his own weariness.  Jesus’ compassion is unending!  He never turns needs away, but empties himself for the sake of others.  What humility!  What selflessness!

So, my friend, here is a mid-summer, Northern Michigan challenge.  Put the needs of others above your own.  In the midst of summer plans and vacation schedules, be on the lookout for why God has you in certain places.  Look for needs people have, and how you can meet them.  Look for opportunities to bless others with the gospel of Jesus.

And if someone asks “Do you know Craig Trierweiler?” you may just want to smile and look back at them and ask, “Yes. But do you know Jesus Christ?”  Knowing Jesus is much more important than knowing Craig.  I pray you know Him well.

You are loved,

Craig Trierweiler