I LOVE TO TELL THE STORY

This weekend we join with others in the US and around the world in celebrating and commemorating the life, work, and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.  His civil rights legacy and work on behalf of the oppressed continues to this day. That the work continues and the struggle appears to be longer than anticipated, could be an opportunity for dismay. It can also be a call to action and a call of hope for our future together.  In his writings and speeches, Dr. King has noted that our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter. We can accept finite disappointment, yet we must never lose infinite hope. Never lose infinite hope as it is precious and blessed.

In our sacred texts this Sunday, Hebrews 10:23-24, we are encouraged to "hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for the One who promised is faithful." Holding on to hope can connect each of us to the events of the past, the possibilities of the now, and the prospects for the future. The interconnection of these past, present and future stories is reflected in the song "I Love to Tell the Story".

I love to tell the story,

                for those who know it best

                seem hungering and thirsting

                to hear it like the rest. 

                And when, in scenes of glory,

                I sing the new, new song,

                It will be the old, old story

                that I have loved so long.

I love to tell the story,

                And when I am in glory,

                I'll tell the old, old story

                of Jesus' endless love.

The words "When I sing the new, new song it will be the old, old story that I have loved so long," are reflected in our 2nd scripture reading for Sunday, Luke 4: 16-22. Here Jesus sings a new song from the passage in Isaiah, and the hearers are "amazed" at his gracious words.In memory and honor of Dr. King, we will hear the stories and messages from sacred voices; Dale Baskerville, Knut Panknin and Rose Williams. They will offer words of hope and encouragement for such a time as this. Our services will be held at 9am and 11am. See you Sunday.

Peace,

Rev Cathy Alexander

 PAY FOR YOUR ORDERS THIS SUNDAY

What is in your Christian tool kit? Hebrews 11:1 states: "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen."   The upcoming 2014 Bible study will be exploring how to apply our faith to our daily personal journey with Christ. The focus of this study will revolve around four themes: Spiritual Tools, Personal Growth, Developing your Walk with God and Tools for Spiritual Defense. Each theme during the series is intended to provide spiritual tools to guide your personal journey with Christ by promoting a better understanding of how to apply the 66 wonderful books we call the Bible to our daily lives.

We are called to build our spiritual formation from the solid foundation of the Word.

                                             (See Rom. 10:17)

I ask the simple question once again: "What is in your Spiritual tool kit?