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While Peter was still speaking, the Holy Spirit fell upon all who heard the Word. The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astounded that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles, for they heard the speaking in tongues and extolling God. Then Peter said, “Can anyone withhold the water for baptizing these people who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?” So he ordered for them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they invited him to stay for several days. Acts 10:44-48
God’s grand plan to spread the Word throughout the world has been successful. Here we are in 2024. Christianity still flourishes; still works to improve the lives of folk less fortunate than we are. But something seems different. I think that the Covid pandemic has affected us more deeply than we realized. It is as though during the two years when we isolated ourselves and our families, the world moved on and we are struggling to catch up with it. Many of us feel we are living in a dysfunctional world which increases our anxiety about the future. Fear not, this too shall pass. The attendance, enthusiasm, and joy I witnessed at a recent informal dinner/silent auction, to raise funds to resource the endeavors of our youth during the year, was invigorating, and gives proof of this fact. I am blessed to be part of this church family and know that we will continue to reach out to the community with love and compassion.
In all our grief and fear we turn to you. Oh God, you know all that we think and do. You know the pain we put each other through. Lord, have Mercy, Christ have Mercy. Lord grant us peace. Amen. (Hymn 739 With One Voice)
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