It was a very hot summer day in July 2018 when Bishop Suda and his wife Prema visited my family here in Houlton, Maine.
My children welcomed them, wearing Korean traditional clothes, and they made a big bow for them as soon as they arrived. Bishop Suda and Prema were gracious and loving just like our grandparents. They genuinely showed curiosity about Korea - its culture, language, history, food, etc... all about who we are. Then they also told us interesting facts about India. We dined together, laughed together, prayed together. Then, they made their way home.
About fifteen minutes later, the doorbell rang. It was Bishop Suda, standing at the door and saying, "Victor, I found my bank here in Houlton and just wanted to give this gift to you." Joyce and I were just amazed by his extravagant generosity. When I think about Bishop Suda, I am still amazed today. And I do miss him.
One thing I learned from Bishop is to treat another human being with dignity. His life reminds me of Dietrich Bonhoeffer's words: "He who looks upon his brother should know that he will be eternally united with him in Jesus Christ."
Our Christian fellowship is eternal. When my family and I attended the Mechuwana family camp this past week, we felt an instant bond with six other families there. Because of one reason, one name. And we had fun in Christ! In Christ we are one, though we are many.
I am grateful that we are given to each other and that our Christian fellowship never ends. Hope you have a restful and peaceful weekend. And see you Sunday!
In Christ,
Pastor Victor
PS. Livestreaming/Online Service Links:
- Hodgdon UMC: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100070411631446
- Houlton UMC:
- Youtube (https://youtube.com/live/xvOwVl5uePw?feature=share)
- Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/houltonumc)
- Mars Hill UMC: https://www.facebook.com/MarsHillUnitedMethodist
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