Greetings on a grey Sunday over the Atlantic seaboard (although some may be getting snow). Today was a day that we gave thanks for the assurance that where 2 or 3 (or 4) are gathered in God’s name, God is in the midst of them. Ironically, when listening to the singing it sounds like there are more than our small numbers – oddity of oddities. If I were to guess, the weather had a large impact on attendance, along with some lingering crud. We are thankful for all we have a pray God remains with you in the coming weeks.
We also give thanks that the hostage situation in Texas yesterday at the Synagogue resolved safely and without impact on the lives of the hostages. Please pray for the lives of people and faith communities who stand in the tension of being loving and welcoming in places where society may not reciprocate.
In worship we heard the truths that our mission is to shine the light of God, found in the person of Jesus, to our communities. That our strength comes from the witness we provide and receive in God’s economy. Our Hebrew Scripture lesson from Isaiah serves as a reminder that God will not rest or stay silent for those whom God is related to – even those who don’t realize they trust in God. Creation is what God celebrates and rejoices over. Our Psalmist sings that people can find comfort and refuge in God, just like chickens under their mother hen’s wings.
Our sermon was loosely based on our two New Testament readings – from 1st Corinthians and the Gospel of John. Paul’s letter to the Corinthians lays out the spiritual gifts that are given by God and their purpose – to provide for the common good. The gifts given us are not ours to hoard, they are things to share with others. John’s Gospel was the story of the “miracle” at the wedding in Cana. Yet, John refers to the event as a sign of Jesus, something that marks a place or the coming of a change or something to pay attention to. In it, Jesus reminds us that the source of all hope and life is found in God. What are your gifts and how do you share them?
I invite your comments,
Les+
Readings: Isaiah 62:1-5; Psalm 36:5-10; 1 Corinthians 12:1-11; John 2:1-11
Video of worship: https://youtu.be/pKpIG4mJFMI
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