Happy Sunday as August is in full swing. This past week was a bit tumultuous, lots of rain and wind, but we made it through mostly unscathed. There has been a flurry of wildlife activity at Church, it’s worth checking out the recent pictures on Facebook. We are doing our part for pollinators with the 2,500+ square feet of milkweed in the back 3 acres and there are at least 15 butterfly chrysalises on the Parish House. Sadly, with the uptick in COVID cases in the area we have reinstituted some safety practices but will remain open and in the sanctuary.
Of note, I will be on vacation for 2 weeks and there will be no video or sermons on the 15th or 22nd. I will be back at work for the 29th and we’ll be back in business.
In worship today we continued our journey reflecting on the new beginnings and the relationship with God and community that is demanded by our profession. We were also reminded that it is only through God’s providence that we can think of and do the things that are right and in relationship with God. It is not our strength that saves us or builds our community of faith, rather it is God alone. In our Hebrew scripture today we heard the story of the death of Absalom by Joab’s people; even though David wanted them to be merciful to Absalom. David was struck to the heart at the loss of his son. Our Psalmist tells a story of waiting for God to respond to our cry. Likewise, we are blessed in waiting for God’s reply to us, all we need to do is wait like we expect the morning after night. Our gospel from John was the second installment of Jesus being the bread of life. In Christ we have true life, not simply existence in this world. Our sermon today was a reflection on the reading from Ephesians. The writer tells us there are things we must do as Christians; to be truthful (especially about ourselves), to be loving, to not let our emotions drive a wedge between us and our community, and that we need to be in conversation with others to help them (and us) see God’s presence and feel God’s guidance.
Our life with God is about progress not perfection. I invite your comments,
Les+
Readings: 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33a; Psalm 130; Ephesians 4:25-5:2; John 6:35, 41-51
Video of worship: https://youtu.be/WzpvPdRCQM4
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