RED LETTER BIBLE STUDY

Dinner and Bible study at 6:00 Thursday evening

“I am the one for whom all the world has been waiting. Today is the day to decide. You have searched the world of idols, but I am not there. What do you truly seek? Follow me and you will find truth.”

Imagine these words, paraphrased from Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, as Jesus’ call to you today.

The Gospels offer us more than the chance to eavesdrop on ancient conversations. Jesus’ words are words for us today. The way each gospel writer organizes and presents their experience of the incarnate Christ matters. Consider each writer’s purpose and the words chosen to introduce the reader to Jesus.

Matthew highlights Jesus’ fulfillment of Jewish history. 3:15 “Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness.” These first words confirm Jesus’ intent to continue, not destroy, the relationship of God and people.

Mark illustrates Jesus’ radical movement of conflict and discipleship. 1:15 “The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!” Jesus’ first words announce the urgency of his purpose and call for hearers to choose a side.

Luke portrays Jesus’ life and times with a formative storyline. 2:49 “Why were you searching for me?” he asked. “Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house?” The boy-Jesus’ words to his anxious mother show that his entire life was one of purpose and revelation.

John celebrates Jesus’ divinity and mystery. 1:38,39 “What do you want?” . . . “Come,” he replied, “and you will see.” No more important question was ever asked, nor a more urgent invitation ever issued.

Sharing Love

• Reaching with love

• Calling toward God

• Learning through living

• Uniting in Christ

A Prayer for 2022

Oh God of infinite wisdom! This year, grant us mediocrity! Bless us with lengthy stretches of boredom! Hear the following humble hopes!

For 78% on a math test, “not your best, but not your worst” in the margins.

For a birthday at Olive Garden with limp singing from servers and a slice of brownie lasagna.

For a beige couch with darker beige pillows.

For a tank top that says, “Mama needs her wine.”

For a blurry 2012 Facebook photo of a street sign you thought was funny but really isn’t funny in hindsight; oh well.

For a plain chicken breast with a side of steamed broccoli on a Monday.

For the record of the Pittsburgh Pirates.

For our children to discover a fulfilling talent, but not one that costs thousands of dollars and requires weekend travel, or anything involving ice skates.

For just a little half-and-half, OK?

For the movie “We Bought a Zoo.”

For a Halloween costume that’s just your roommate’s work scrubs from the dentist’s office.

For a piece of wall art involving metal leaves from Kirkland’s.

For a used Toyota Yaris.

For a clean Holiday Inn Express with free bagels in the morning.

For two matching socks that can be located in less than eight minutes.

For the printer to work, just this one time.

For a break from violence, death, destruction, misinformation and man’s inhumanity to man.

For a nice, clear broth.

From the blog of Stephanie Hayes.

Join us for worship at 10:45 Sunday mornings

We have a casual style and worshipful attitude and a classic four-fold order:

• we gather in humility

• we hear the Word in sermon and song

• we respond with commitment and communion

• we bear witness in the world

Come to the table, celebrate communion on the first Sunday each month.

COVID-19 worship adjustments include:

• distancing upon entering, exiting, and within the sanctuary

• humming rather than singing

• masks as each one is comfortable

• no passing trays for offering or communion

• smiles from a distance