September 2023 Newsletter – Pastor’s Page
Greetings church!
In his poetry and writings, Austrian writer Ranier Maria Rilke (1875-1926) invites his readers to “love the questions” instead of just searching for answers. It’s a plea for patient self-reflection. Scripture often leaves us with just as many questions as answers. God invites each of us on a life-long journey of discipleship, a journey that invites questions between us and God, Scripture, and Christian Community.
That’s the idea behind our current worship series, entitled “The Journey Begins.” God is inviting us to explore ancient questions during a season of beginning. September is a time of beginnings. Many students and teachers are beginning their school year. You will begin to see yellow buses dot the roads and highways! Others are beginning new careers or beginning the last of the harvest in the fields. Some are beginning new seasons of life – young professionals, new retirees, new freedoms, or new limitations. Some members of our church have moved to new homes or new communities.
On the journey of discipleship, sometimes we need to begin again. To hit the reset or restart button and contemplate the questions God asks of us – “Who do you say I am? Who am I? What is the sign? How many times shall I forgive?” We will explore these questions through the scriptures of Exodus and Matthew in the weeks ahead.
Are you looking for a resource to help you hit the reset button? Our United Women of Faith Circles will begin new studies soon. Pick up a copy of the daily devotion “The Disciplines” from the Upper Room. Experiment with a new spiritual practice like silence, prayer beads, or prayer coloring/drawing. Or visit the bookshelf in the Fellowship Hall. There are lots of great reading choices to begin this season with intention and self-reflection. Need help? Have a question? Reach out!
September blessings,
Pastor Jared