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Dear Friends,
This weekend we begin our new summer sermon series from the 2nd readings from the Lectionary, called the Epistles or the letters to the early church. These letters carry a great deal of meaning as they are written like a wise mentor, coach, parent, or grandparent would speak. We are mindful that they are letters that are now years away from the witnessed teachings of Jesus; but they are the early church learning the joys and the challenges of being the early church.
In this season of the summer of 2021, we long to hear wisdom from those who have provided us a foundation of wholeness. Listening to the words of a teacher or a rabbi to a student pouring into our daily lives.
From the Book of 2 Corinthians 4:13-5:1 we read, “It is written: “I believed; there for I have spoken.” Since we have that same spirit of faith we also believe and therefore speak, _____(let’s wait for the real wisdom in a minute!)
Let’s say I walked up to you and said, “I have coffee; therefore, I am awake.” Yes, there is some truth to this; but, as I am writing and as I am finishing my second venti cup of coffee, the truth is that I needed more rest yesterday to get through my today so that I can wake up tomorrow with less of a mush brain! For those who just read that, I am not saying coffee (caffeine) is bad. I’m saying that it doesn’t replace a good night of rest. What is truth and what is what I want to hear to affirm my own monolog of truth?
Let’s add a bit more from the author of this letter, to the people of Corinth.
“It is written: “I believed; therefore, I have spoken.” Since we have that same spirit of faith, we also believe and therefore speak, because we know that the one who raised the Lord Jesus from the dead will also raise us with Jesus and present us with you to himself. All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God.”
Read the passage out loud to yourself more than one time.
The early church and the church of today are longing to hear truth as if we haven’t heard it before. Jesus spoke to us during his ministry on earth. He said that we are to love one another. We are to love the fullness of someone so that their understanding of who made them and who loves them makes way for the truth that they/we/us are loved for eternity.
What wise mentor speaks truth, words of God’s grace-filled gracious gift of truth, into your head right now? And how does it inform your ideas, thoughts, and action?
How are your conversations, gatherings, and behavior influenced by the wise and informed thoughts of others? Who are you influencing knowing that in your words are to witness God’s promise of compassion, mercy, and grace for all people?
So many things to think through and listen to one another. This week, come to in-person worship, check us out on Facebook Live, or watch the recorded service at a later time. Go to our website and sign up for Vacation Bible School/Day Camp. Come gather safely and listen to one another and in listening, we pray.
Blessings to you all,
Pastor Katie