For the past few years, members of the congregation have picked “star words” on the Sunday of Epiphany. These words invite their recipients to reflect on their word and consider how God may be working in their life. This year, when I turned over my star word, I couldn’t help but think of Jerry Lee Lewis rocking out on the piano, and it brought a smile to my face. It also got me thinking, what does the word “Goodness” mean to me and how might this word be calling me into this new year?

The second song that came into my mind when I was reflecting on my word was one we have used many times in worship, Goodness Is Stronger than Evil. The lines go, “Goodness is stronger than evil; love is stronger than hate; light is stronger than darkness; life is stronger than death. Victory is ours; victory is ours through God who loves us.” In that context, I hear the word being used as a reminder that God’s goodness is stronger than any evil and that my own acts of goodness (of doing good things for others) are an act of love and light and life.

The other reflection I had was on the story of the Good Samaritan. It is the story about one who showed mercy to a neighbor, a man who was hurting on the side of the road. Goodness is not regulated to family or tribe but is a calling to show mercy to any and all who are hurting. Goodness begins by noticing the needs of others and then doing what we can to help.

I encourage everyone who has received a “star word” to take the time to reflect on what the word might mean and how God might be using that word to work in your life. If you have not received a word yet, it is not too late. There are stars on the welcome table that you can pick up, or you can call the office and one of us will pick a word for you.

Grace and Peace,

Daren Hofmann