Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

On Monday at our lectionary discussion group meeting, some of those in attendance were joking
that we need to put band-aids in the bulletins on Sunday. Indeed, as we have heard the shocking words of scriptures revealed to us, we are realizing how far we fall short from being true disciples of Jesus. I think that we would all agree that we love God. I think that we also would agree that we need to grow a great deal in making that relationship a priority. Especially we all would agree that we fall far short of loving all of our neighbors. Thus comes the challenge!

During the month of August, I would like to challenge each of us to intentionally spend more time in prayer nurturing our relationship with God. Additionally, I would like to challenge each of us to intentionally reach out to a neighbor for the first time or to reconcile a relationship that has been wounded or broken. Please give extra time and effort to:

1. sitting at the feet of Jesus to listen    -    and learn, and
2. loving our neighbors.

. . . and now the last part of the challenge...

I would like for you to share your stories of prayer, loving our neighbors, and healing relationships. Our
service on the last Sunday of August will celebrate these experiences. The scripture lesson for that Sunday is Luke 14: 1, 7-14.

We are called to grow in grace together. The paraments for this month are green to symbolize growth. May this be our special goal during the month of August. I look forward to being in ministry with you as we grow in our love of God and neighbor.

Grace, peace, and blessings to you,
Sylvia

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