As we continue to live into our theme this year of Serving Joyfully, I find myself deeply grateful for the ways I see this spirit alive among you and the congregations you serve. This week, while attending the Southeastern Jurisdictional Cabinet Consultations, I was reminded just how strong, faithful, and hopeful our denomination remains across the Southeast. In gathering with cabinet colleagues, we heard story after story of churches leaning into their communities, loving boldly, and serving joyfully as they participate in the mission to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

What became clear in those conversations is this: joy in ministry is not rooted in ease, numbers, or comfort. True joy flows from knowing both the source and the purpose of our work. Our joy is grounded in Jesus Christ—his grace, his invitation, and his call—and it is expressed when we share that grace and love with others. When we remember why we serve and who we serve, joy becomes not just a feeling, but a way of life.

During the gathering, Bishop Leonard Fairley preached a sermon that has stayed with me. He reminded us that what happens at the Lord’s table is never meant to stay at the table. Borrowing from the familiar advertising slogan, “What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas,” he challenged us that what happens at Christ’s table must never stay there. The nourishment we receive, the grace we are offered, and the love that welcomes us belong not only to us, but to the world God so loves.

We are called to rise from the table and go forth—loving boldly, serving joyfully, leading courageously as we extend the invitation to all God’s children.

As you lead in this season, I invite you to reflect—and to invite your leaders and congregations to reflect—with these questions:

• How are you leading your people to get up from the table and share this gift with our sisters and brothers?
• How are you helping them discover the joy that comes from serving others in Christ’s name?

Thank you for your faithfulness, your leadership, and your joyful service. I am grateful to walk this journey with each of you.

PAX Christi,
David