May God’s mercy be upon you today, after a harrowing week. We offer prayers for light in the midst of darkness; for the fate of the state, the nation, and the world; and for the blessings that arise in times of trial. God reminds us to give thanks for the blessings: health, recovery, and new life; even in the midst of trials and tribulations. August is reaching its apex and we prepare for the mission of being God’s witnesses in our community. This morning began rainy and dreary, yet we heard God’s message of hope today. Thanks to those who joined us and will join us through these words and the message attached.

As we worshiped today we heard a variety of stories in Scripture: sibling rivalry; being a faithful evangelist and letting God be responsible for changing lives through the witness we provide; and God’s presence before, during, and after the storm – and how God responds to our witness, even if it is “flawed” in our opinion. The confusion in scripture helped us find light in the midst of Charlottesville, North Korea, and the uncertainty of life in 2017. May your actions keep the focus on God’s providence and let us feel God’s support in the hard times.

I invite your comments,
Les+

Readings: Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28; Psalm 105:1-6, 16-22, 45b; Romans 10:5-15; Matthew 14:22-33



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