Happy All Hallows Eve! It has been a quiet week, more or less, in Chuckatuck and at St. John’s. Fall is upon us and the leaves are starting to fall in the yard. There are a few more chestnuts to drop, but in the long run, things are well settled. We had a wonderful worship this morning, that came together nicely – a few hiccups at the start; misplaced glasses, wonky video setup, and a few other things, but nothing that could stand in the way of worship. It is odd to celebrate the 10th month of 2021 coming to a close, it seems like it was only yesterday when we said goodbye to 2020. Have a safe evening on All Hallows Eve.

In worship we were reminded that our ability to offer true and meaningful service to all depends solely on God’s gift to us. Otherwise, we might find that we stumble as we strive for the heavenly promises offered by God. Thankfully, God’s grace is more than sufficient for us. Our Psalmist sang the song that reminds us that our trust in humans for success will be found misapplied. When our trust is in God, we will recognize the true gifts of life and wholeness, even when there are troubles. The reading from Hebrews gives us hope. Because Jesus, who was free from sin, offered himself freely for our sins, we are able to stand and live. Without Jesus’ offering, we will be stuck making the same sacrifices, over and over again. Our reading from Mark’s gospel told the story of the Scribe asking what was most important commandment. Jesus tells him: love God more than anything and love your neighbor as yourself. Without love, we are nothing.

Our sermon was taken, in part from the Hebrew scripture lesson in Ruth. That story helps us recognize that, when we work in concert with others, even those who are “outsiders”, we will be blessed and reminded of God’s providence. But that doesn’t mean that we won’t suffer the pains of life, but that when we go with others, we will be welcomed by God.

I invite your comments and likes,
Les+

Readings: Ruth 1:1-18; Psalm 146; Hebrews 9:11-14; Mark 12:28-34
Video of worship: https://youtu.be/Bur_c3Y22u8