This Community Makes Me Smile

Summer in Jackson is too short, too busy, too crowded, but always extraordinary. This year in particular, following late spring rains, is spectacularly lush and verdant, and the lakes and rivers are full once again. The world is experiencing unprecedented heat, but Jackson is a little oasis of warm, not debilitating, sunny days and cool nights. In the busyness that is a Jackson summer, I sometimes forget to look out – to look up, and appreciate God’s beauty all around us. I was driving home from Casper recently and noticed the incredible greenery around me and the occasional peek of the Tetons. I rounded that corner – you know the one – and suddenly there they were, looming in front of me, massive and majestic. After 17 years in Jackson, those mountains never fail to take my breath away. As they appeared before me, I thought, “Ah, I’m home.” Then seeing the throngs of tourists gathered at the various lookouts admiring the view reminded me, once again, how blessed we are to live in a place of such beauty.

We are blessed, however, by so much more than the majestic environment. I often hear people say, “I came for the skiing/hiking/rock climbing (name your activity of choice), but stayed for the community.” Yes, it’s about the people. And within this wonderful Jackson community, is Our community – St. John’s – a uniquely vibrant, loving, supportive church we are blessed to call home. When we moved here for the beauty, we stayed because we found a true home at St. John’s – a place that welcomes, challenges, loves, supports, energizes, and nurtures each of us.

This community fills my heart – and makes me smile!

I smile when: I look out at all of you from the pulpit. When I walk into coffee hour and hear the hubbub of conversation. When I see little ones running and laughing through Hansen Hall or on the back lawn. In a room full of women gathered monthly to explore their faith, eat great food, and enjoy even better company. During a lively conversation at noon Eucharist on Wednesdays. When a group of curious people gather to interact with Jimmy, Brian, Travis, and me as we share our vulnerabilities around surrender, brokenness, our faith, and so much more. When I see jackets hanging from trees in the winter. When I see hundreds of blue bags stuffed with toiletries and household items each December. When I see a picture of baby Helen brushing her teeth while riding on her dad’s back on Josie’s. When I read all the things that make my colleagues smile.

We have declared this the Summer of Smiles. We're more than halfway through the summer, so I encourage you all to get out there and notice – really notice all the things that make you smile. I would love to hear from you – what is making you smile?

With love,

Mary