World Communion Sunday

This Sunday, October 4, 2015, is World Communion Sunday.  On this day, Christians all over the world gather around the Lord's Table and share in Communion.  It is an awesome thought to consider that believers everywhere are made one through the body and blood of Jesus Christ.  As the old hymn tells us, "There is power in the blood."

The blood of Christ cleanses us from all of our sins and washes us so that we are whiter than snow.  Thinking of that brings to mind pictures of freshly fallen snow.  When sunlight hits that snow, the snow reflects the light and gives off a warm glow.  That is how we are to be as followers of Christ - reflecting the light of Jesus and glowing for God.  Each snowflake is unique and reflects light on its own; but the power of the snow is evidenced when the flakes are joined together.

As Christians, we experience the love of God both individually and corporately; however, we are stronger when we are joined together as the family of God.  It is important for us to remember that just as God exists in relationship:  Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, we are to be in relationship with others.

So many of those faith relationships are formed in the local church.  That is one reason why it is important to be a part of a fellowship of believers where we can learn and grow together in Christ.

I challenge you to join in worship this Sunday and to gather around the Lord's Table with believers all around the world.  Pause and reflect on being part of God's family.  Ponder how many become one in Christ.  Be filled and refreshed to go out to serve the Lord.

Amen!

Pastor Linda

Falling into the Father's Hands

As I write this post, September has officially arrived.  Summer is drawing to a close, even though the temperatures keep rising and it feels like summer.  We are starting our "normal" routines again and thinking about football and autumn leaves.

September is a wonderful time to get reconnected with the church.  Make Sunday morning worship a part of your weekly routine.  Join a Bible Study Group and dig deeper into God's Word.  Strengthen your commitment to Christ.  Grow closer in your relationship with him.

As I was preparing for the month of September, I came across a powerful prayer by Charles de Foucauld.  It is called,

"Prayer of Abandonment"

Father,

I abandon myself into your hands;

do with me what you will.

Whatever you may do, I thank you:

I am ready for all, I accept all.

Let only your will be done in me,

and in all your creatures -

I wish no more than this, O Lord.

Into your hands I commend my soul;

I offer it to you with all the love of my heart.

For I love you, Lord,

and so need to give myself,

to surrender myself into your hands,

without reserve,

and with boundless confidence.

For you are my Father.

I pray that this fall, you fall into the hands of our almighty and all-loving God.  Let God direct all of your steps.  Let God's will be done in you. 

This week in worship, we will get some guidance from a whale, as we focus on living a life that demonstrates Biblical respect for all people.  We would love to have you join us and we hope to see you on Sunday!

In His Love,
Pastor Linda