Happy end of September!
Our worship on the 19th Sunday after Pentecost opened with a prayer to recall that God’s desire is to be merciful and show pity to all in need. As we remember God’s mercy, we are also reminded to remember God’s promises and the hope that lies ahead. Our lesson from Esther was the culmination of her convincing King Xerxes not to destroy the Israelites. She used her simple skills and faith in God to help her deliver her people. The Psalmist’s refrain was a reminder that “if God had not been on our side our enemies would have prevailed.” The gospel from Mark continued the themes from last week, the shortsighted nature of the Disciples who apply human standards to God and doing simple things is miraculous in the long run. The Epistle from the letter to James relates two keys – if nothing else we need to pray and trust that God will act; and that normal people are the ones who help society see God’s presence. Regular people doing what they can is one of the most impactful witnesses of God’s power and grace. Our job is to tap the skills given to us and use them as best we can to offer connection, community, and hope in our world and, more importantly, in our communities. By listening and looking we can do more than we hope for or imagine. Who is the one who will encourage you to live your true life of hope and reconciliation today and in the future?
I invite your comments,
Les+
Readings: Esther 7:1-6, 9-10, 9:20-22; Psalm 124; James 5:13-20; Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23
https://audiomack.com/fatherles-2/song/pentecost-19-sermon
