I find it uplifting and awesome that as we approach the celebration of the Pentecost event, that we, as the Grand Canyon Synod of the ELCA, will gather to elect a bishop to lead, guide and keep order in the Grand Canyon Synod. I find this uplifting because as we read in the book of Acts, just prior to the Pentecost event, the disciples had to find someone to join them as chosen leaders to lead all disciples of the Risen Lord. The disciples cast lots to decide. We use an election process. After witnessing the election process at several different synod assemblies, I sometimes think the casting of lots may work just as well. Or, send each candidate into the neighborhoods for a day and see how many people they can bring to a worship service at the assembly. The one who brings the most is the new bishop.

I gather with other ELCA pastors on Wednesday mornings for fellowship, information sharing, study and prayer. The discussion recently revolved around the question, “What do want in a bishop?” I said that I wanted someone who played softball rather than golf. Someone who really knows what it means to be on a team and be a team player. I wanted someone who, at the core of their heart, mind, soul and body, wants to help those around him/her as staff, as congregations, as individuals, to share the good news of Jesus Christ. I want someone who will help equip congregations and people with a passion to reach out to people in faith and trust in Jesus as Risen Lord who is the way, the truth and the life. I want someone who can keep, sustain and maintain this evangelical truth.

Upon reflecting upon what “I” want in a bishop, I began to realize I want someone who has a passion and commitment and drive to live as the “elect” of God. St. Peter writes in his first letter in the New Testament, “To God’s elect, strangers in the world, scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappodocia, Asia and Bithynia, who have been chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and sprinkling by His blood: Grace and peace be yours in abundance.” (NIV)

What I want in a bishop is what I want in all of us; the abundance of grace and peace working in us, sanctifying us that we may find confidence in faith, knowing that because we have already been elected, we can live lives of faith. This is the good news… You have been elected. God wants you. And God wants your neighbor too. I hope your neighbor knows this and if they don’t, you CAN share this good news with them.

In Christ’s Love and Service, Pastor Dan
Pastor Dan Valasakos