From Word to Way

Over the last two years I have had the great privilege of serving the community that is Walker Harbor, with a central focus on reminding people that their story matters.

Your story matters.

Every person has a story, and every story being lived matters.

Because our stories are a tangible gift from the Divine. Our stories are dynamic, not static, which is to stay they are endlessly unfolding. What we believe is found less in what we say, but more in how we live. This is the dynamic movement of Word to Way. This has always been the movement and drive of the Grand story, that is the story of Scripture. So it is with you and me.

At Walker Harbor we carve out time, space, and opportunities to engage in the stories of the people who are Walker Harbor Church. Whether over a meal, a men’s group, women’s group, or a New Wine Wednesday gathering, we listen as people share stories that covers abuse, addiction, death, and immense heartbreak. While also highlighting sacrifice, grace, generosity, joy, and buoyant love. Because each of the stories has been engulfed by restoration, forgiveness, and the brilliant dance of joy in the midst of, and on the other side of suffering.

The undeniable move of Grace into Peace. We stand witness to the move from Word to Way.

Just so we’re crystal clear, this is not people talking about beliefs, but people sharing their flesh and blood experience of faith. Over the last two years, we have witnessed people trusting God, even in the midst of excruciating pain and suffering. I’m sure, like me, you have heard people prattle on about what they believe, maybe even vehemently arguing about these beliefs. Yet, we find that the meta-movement of the Scriptures has always been the move from words spoken, to a particular way expressed through action. Which means I am less interested in someone just talking about things they intellectually ascend to, and far more interested in engaging in how people’s lives have shown a trust in the Divine.

The move from words spoken to lives of active trust. The move from Word to Way.

This has been overwhelmingly impactful and moving for the people who are Walker Harbor! The stories shared have ignited in others the reality that they too have a story, leading us to better see our collective story. It’s been a brilliant dance that invites life transformation, and I am beyond grateful. I’m grateful for the people who have courageously shared their story, and grateful for the lives that have been impacted through these stories.

Your story matters. You are created in the image of the Divine, and that is not to be hidden and stashed away in secrecy, so please share your story. Because your story endlessly points to the story of Grace, of the Divine working to Restore, Renew, and Reconcile all things. This is Good News, and it is desperately needed in our world today.

May you find yourself moving from words spoken to the Way lived.