By Bret Johnson
Through examples of compassion at work, Rev. Dr. Michael Adam Beck shared the life-giving results of Jesus at work through his people.
The Lakeside community was challenged to think of mission and ministry through a lens of compassion, changing the traditional view of what “Church” is, and even more importantly, forcing us to think of the places where “Church” could be found.
The scripture lesson Beck used, from Matthew 9:36, speaks of people, helpless and harassed, in need of a shepherd. Jesus responded with compassion.
Beck reflected on the work of Jesus and motivated the congregation to think outside the walls of the Church building, to look at where crowds are “harassed and helpless.” He has found that the Church can be wherever there is community.
As we celebrate our 150th Anniversary, we’re mindful of what has gone before and what lies ahead for Lakeside. This summer, as we look toward the future, we’re encouraged to ponder on what it means to “Lead with Compassion, Integrity & Transparency.”
Given as one of the dynamic practices of “Building Community,” Lakesiders are inspired by the work of people who saw in this spot on Lake Erie the potential for just that. They relied on God and each other to carve out a unique place that would serve as “Church” for the many people who have made their pilgrimage here each summer.
Early Lakeside leaders looked with compassion at the needs of the people who would come to our part of the lakeshore. They sought to create a place where people could pause from a busy life to renew and grow. That charge is still in practice within the Lakeside community.
The Lakeside community continues to strive to bring integrity, transparency and compassion into decisions to maintain and enhance this place that is loved by so many. This vision work is not left to Lakeside leaders alone but to ALL Lakesiders.
Beck told of a man who unknowingly planted a Church at a local bark park. By leaning into the interests and needs of the people at the park, thisman compassionately began to grow a community.
We, as Lakesiders, are all empowered to bring compassion to every area and conversation that we find ourselves in. You don’t have to look hard to observe the compassionate actions of Lakesiders.
Through the commitment of hundreds of people, Lakeside blooms into a place each summer where community happens in real and meaningful ways. People come to Lakeside to celebrate family. They come here to help answer life’s questions. Some travel miles to find, in this place, healing from life’s wounds. Through all those areas of life, Lakeside comes together as a compassionate community.
As we look to the next 150 years, Lakesiders will continue to seek compassion in leading, decision-making and community building. How fortunate we are to share as a community at Lakeside.
