Week of September 25, 2022
Luke 16:19-31
You’re familiar with the story…the rich man that drove by the beggar that sat at his gate. When they both died, the beggar was with Jesus and the rich man was in the flames, begging for relief. A “chasm” divided them so no one could cross from either direction.
Who are you most like in this story? Are we the rich man driving by, ignoring those in need around us? What about other situations? Does a chasm such as that described in the story exist elsewhere? Jesus was focused on the deep divisions between people. Do we have divisions in our lives, our church, our town, our country? We need to identify these divisions. Then we can follow Jesus’ instructions to open the gates close the chasm between us and others, becoming the one family of God that He wants us to be.
Our mission is to make disciples for Jesus Christ and transform the world–we’ve gotta bridge those relationship gaps to do that. Ask God for help identifying and then bridging those gaps. Let’s get this done! Amen? Amen!
Have a blessed week!
Announcements
Card Party – Lila Sorter will be celebrating her 99th birthday this Wednesday, September 28, 2022. If you would like to remember her with a card, her mailing address is:
Lila Sorter
c/o Jill Loughey
13987 Ida West Rd.
Petersburg, MI 49270
World Communion Sunday is October 2. We will be recognizing this important day in the life of the United Methodist Church with a special offering. Pew cards are available today explaining how this special offering supports the church’s mission in the world.
Rise Up Music Ministry – The worship committee decided to call our volunteer singers the “Rise Up Music Ministry”. We will sing once a month for special services and practice on Tuesday evenings at 7:00 pm as needed. Anyone, any age, that loves to sing, can come to join us! Laity Sunday is October 16 so we will practice Tuesday October 4 and Tuesday October 11 at 7 pm in the Sanctuary. Please see Linda Plumb if you have any questions. There will be a sign up sheet in the narthex for October’s Rise Up Music Ministry.
Sock-tober Fest — For the month of October, the United Women in Faith are collecting socks and underwear for the women and children who live at Paula’s House. Donations may be placed in the clothes basket in the narthex. See the UMiF bulletin board for specific needs, and to learn about the purpose and programs of Paula’s House.