Every time there is a fifth Sunday, I seem to become confused about the every-other-week rotation of the paper bulletin. There will be a “mid-flight course correction” next week when, if all goes as planned, you will receive another mailing. Last week, I didn’t even put the internet bulletin together and I appreciate those who emailed to inquire or to kindly chide. I’ll accept any form of response! Keep it coming!
In my defense, as if I really need one, I offer that an airport run, preparing an extra Bible study (in Pastor Rigsby’s absence), a half-day at the Park (i.e. Disneyland) with my nephew, Eric and his friend, Eryk (that was convenient), a graveside service for a life-long Los Angeles County resident (there aren’t too many who were actually born in the Los Angeles area 78 years ago) and the remainder of that day at the beach with two dozen energetic youth didn’t leave one minute under-used. Wait. I seem to think I also helped my dad install a water heater, too. I’m pretty sure that was the same week and I don’t think I was dreaming.
I hope that you already read the wonderful report about the six baptisms we were privileged to witness last Sunday! I know that Pastors Tony and Carlos carefully explain the purpose of baptism then personally examine each one before their “public confession of faith” in Jesus Christ. In the bulletin I didn’t mention the “mix” of ages and relationships in this group. Sergio is a 30-something young man. Jackie is the 12 year-old daughter of the Spanish congregation’s newest elder, Hugo. And, Elizabeth is Hugo’s sister. Then, there were three members of a family baptized together. Juan Diaz, his wife Olivia and their daughter, who is also named Olivia!
Not all our news is “happy news,” however. We are about to lose a “friend” some of you have known for 63 years, since 1944. By the end of this month, Ralph’s Lumber Co. will cease operating as a lumber and hardware store. About sixty days ago Gene, Bruce, and Thom entered into a 90-day escrow to sell the building and land, but not the inventory. When the clock started ticking, the “going out of business” sale began. Now, all of the merchandise is nearly gone. The store fixtures are sold and being moved out in pieces. All but one of the tools is sold.
Some of you reading this may wonder why the closing of a business is news worthy. Here’s why.
Ralph’s Lumber is part of our family. Ralph is my dad’s uncle and my dad worked there for 25 years or so. Even I worked there for a couple of years (not counting the times I did odd jobs before I was hirable).
Ralph’s Lumber is also part of our church history. Ralph and Olene and their boys not only attended church here, but fully participated, giving of themselves and, more times than not, of their business, often behind the scenes.
Ralph’s Lumber is part of the structure of this city. I couldn’t prove this by fact, but I doubt if there is not one home in Bell Gardens that doesn’t have something from Ralph’s in it, and then there are the hundreds more in other communities.
I could say more (and probably will in time). I have been wondering what the Bible might say on the matter of a business going out of business. So far, I only have inference and comparison, nothing direct. Maybe you can help me! Here are a few examples. Job lost all of his “business” in a single day. The Proverbs 31 woman “worked” diligently and industriously over many long hours. The foolish farmer in Jesus’ parable ended in personal ruin because of incomplete (wrong) “values.”
Beyond what the Bible says, I have also been wondering what should be the appropriate response to any business closing that has so personally benefited and influenced me, and possibly even you.
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