Pastor's Note

I am retiring this month, but before leaving the ministry, I shared these words with the congregation. They came from one of my mentors, and with this being my last Pastor's Corner, I wish to share his words of wisdom with you. He said, to live a more godly life, "Christians should speak more using the following words: 'sorry, thank you, and I love you. Please allow me to explain.

"Sorry".
I realized that it is a lot easier to remember those who have offended me than it is to remember those I may have offended.

In reflection, I realized I need to say "sorry" to some people. To my family, as I've hurt their feelings (they are close to me, so it's easy to hurt them), to my friends, and congregation, as I know there have been times I did not meet their expectations. I am sorry if I failed to remember you or the stories you shared with me. There have been times, I felt bad seeing you walk away after waiting to talk to me because I was talking to someone else longer than expected. I am so sorry if I offended you, anyway, without realizing it. Most of all, I am "sorry" to my Lord. There have been many wishes and promises I wanted to do for God, but I realize that I have not done them all.

"Thank you"
My friends and my beloved congregation, I am so grateful and blessed to be your friend and pastor. Thank you for accepting me just as I am, even though I'm not perfect and make mistakes. Thank you for your encouragement!

Lastly, I love you
Not too long ago, I realized I have a habit of ending my phone conversations with "love you". I realize some people may feel uncomfortable hearing that, especially from a pastor, but many of you reply, "love you too." Thank you! When I say, "I love you," I mean it.
Let me say one more time, I love all of you!

Our life journey becomes full when we live in a loving and responsible relationship with our family, our church, our neighbors, and the world. Please accept my sincere "sorry, thank you, and I love you." It's my wish that we will all speak those words whenever we can. When we put on humility, kindness, tenderness, and forgiveness, we become imitators of God's love, our life becomes full of joy. Thanks be to God!