Our worship began with a reminder that our faith in God gives us strength and comfort in the times of trial. We celebrate that our strength comes from God and not from our human endeavors. Our first lesson and the basis of today’s sermon was from the Acts of the Apostles, the story of appointing Judas’ replacement and the election of Matthias. From here the Apostles are restored to their place as leaders of the Jewish people. The Psalmist sang a song that reminds us that our true contentment comes from trusting that God’s promises are faithful and true. Our lesson from First John reminds us that the words given by God are greater than the words given by humans. But we are also called to speak as God provides us the words. The gospel from John prays for the believers and their faith as ones called to be witnesses for God in the world. In all cases, we hear the stories of real people doing the real things they do, often without fanfare or recognition. A life of faith is often not fancy but is rewarding and fulfilling. Our job is not to be a star but to be faithful. How do you minister at the edges?
May the upcoming week be one where you find people who need to be loved and connected to God’s grace. I invite your comments,
Les+
Readings: Acts 1:15-17, 22-26; Psalm 1; 1 John 5:9-13; John 17:6-19
https://audiomack.com/fatherles-2/song/easter-7-sermon
