One thing have I desired of the Lord... that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life...Psalm 27:4
All three scripture readings have a common theme which helps us to know what the people of God are called to do and to be. Pastor Russ finds in these readings three qualities of Bethel Lutheran in his sermon entitled "We Are Not Meant to Go It Alone."
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Sometimes, we might feel overwhelmed by all that is going on in our lives and/or in the world. Oh, to be young and innocent once again. Jesus reminded us to welcome the child when he took children into his arms to bless them. We are called to have the faith of a child.
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"Ode to the Tongue" is the title of Pastor Russ' message as he explores James 3:1-12 which reminds us how our words can be like a devastating fire or can be used for good. How can we keep better control over what we say? Listen and learn. A helpful outline accompanies the sermon. Contact the office if you would like one.
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"Love your neighbor as yourself" is the golden rule, the Letter of James reminds us. Some 'neighbors' are easier to love than others. And yet, because God shows no partiality and loves everyone, no matter who they are, we are to do the same. Jesus is the supreme example traveling all the way to Tyre to heal a Gentile woman's sick daughter, dispelling the prejudicial beliefs of his day.
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At first, in the Gospel story from Mark 7, it appears Jesus is against washing hands before one eats. Not so. What Jesus was saying to the leaders of his day was sometimes we can place religious habits and rituals ahead of what is in a person's heart.
Is our life of faith only about trying to always do the right thing? Or is it more than that? Listen to Pastor Russ' sermon entitled "Creeds or Deeds?"
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