Scripture: Psalm 118:22-24 The stone that the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone. This is the Lord’s doing; it is marvelous in our eyes. This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Thought for the Day: The last day of General Assembly just might have been the single most energizing/spirit-filled worship experience I have ever known. The Rev.
Scripture: John 15:1-5 I am the true vine, and my Father is the vineyard keeper. He removes any of my branches that don’t produce fruit, and he trims any branch that produces fruit so that it will produce even more fruit. You are already trimmed because of the word I have spoken to you. Remain in me, and I will remain in you. A branch can’t produce fruit
Prayer for the Week: Today, and throughout this coming week, we offer prayers for our children and youth. So many marvelous experiences – from church camps to Vacation Bible School, from Mission Trips to playful time at the poolside – there have been so many wonderful moments to meet you, be inspired by you and to serve you. O God of All Life and Goodness, we are thankful
Scripture: John 15:3 You are already trimmed because of the word I have spoken to you. Thought for the Day: The first few verses from John 15 make up the central thematic text for the General Assembly of our denomination. I referenced some specific words yesterday, but I couldn’t walk away without looking at a few more. I like this verse, in part, because I believe there are
Scripture: 1st Corinthians 16:14 Everything should be done in love. Thought for the Day: On Sunday, I quoted Bob Goff who wrote: When you feel like you can’t explain your faith, go love someone — and love will be the explanation. Those words challenge me, for I consider myself to be an amateur, yet savvy theologian and capable of presenting a good argument. I can ramble with the
ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS July 18, 2019 Scripture: Matthew 10:7 As you go, make this announcement: ‘The kingdom of heaven has come near.’ Thought for the Day: In this scripture, Jesus is commissioning the 12 Disciples for a missional task, and with that commissioning comes a statement in regard to the purpose of their work: Announce how the Kingdom of heaven has come near. With that in mind, let me
Scripture: Deuteronomy 31:6 Be strong! Be fearless! Don’t be afraid and don’t be scared by your enemies, because the LORD your God is the one who marches with you. He won’t let you down, and he won’t abandon you. Thought for the Day: It was Winston Churchill who said, “To improve is to change; to be perfect is to change often.” This coming Saturday begins the 2019 General
Prayer for the Week: God of the Universe, we look to the sky, we climb mountains and we ponder our ascension into heaven some day. Our faith tends to be so other-worldly, yet you heard the cries of those who were bound in Egypt. You did not dismiss these cries, but responded with a liberating love that guided them as a Pilar of Light. You are the One