Listen to the Spirit as you are called...

Beloved of God,

    I first of all want you to be aware of an opportunity that is coming up at the end of this month (I can’t believe it’s October!). Haley is putting together an event that is a creative spin on our traditional trunk or treat for these strange times. I’m really excited about it, and I think the more of you who are willing to find ways to join in the fun, the better it will be. This could be a great chance for us to love on our own children here at church and to share that same love with other kids in the community. We’ll have more to say soon, but for now, if you want to join us in building up our candy stockpile, feel free to bring a bag of pre-wrapped candy on Sunday or through the week as you’re able. It’s gonna be a blast.
    I have been reminded this week of how much everything we do well as a church runs on the mutual commitment to give our time and efforts and focus to one another in love. There is of course the truism that “money can’t buy love, and love can’t buy groceries.” But just as important as the funding we jointly hold to keep the lights on is the willingness to do careful, creative and even surprising things for one another and for our neighbors. Jesus threw dinner parties for strangers in desert places. He met with doubt riddled outsiders by night to bring them into the kingdom. He spent time with children in an age where most folks thought of their progeny as little better than property. I get the privilege as your pastor of hearing what many of you are up to: stories about outdoor dinner dates, and grocery runs, and even the odd repair of a sewing machine. I hope you will continue to listen to the Spirit as you are called to these unconventional and creative acts of love for one another and for our neighbors. God bless you as you do.

    Please join me this week in praying for:

• Those fleeing and fighting wildfires in the West
  
• Wisdom for both of the candidates standing for election to the office of President of the United States
• Our youngest brothers and sisters and neighbors
  
• Our oldest brothers and sisters and neighbors
• For parents as they care for their young children
• For children as they look after their older parents
• For doctors, nurses, first responders and others who are working for our good in healthcare settings
• For those in positions of public trust at the federal, state and local levels
• In praise for the change of seasons, and God’s constant care and provision for the world
• For those who are hurting, sick, afraid or alone
• That we would have eyes to see them and be willing to love and serve them for the sake of the Kingdom of God
• For one another (if you are interested in getting updates from the prayer ministry, please contact [email protected] to be added to that list)

You are the salt of the earth; you are the light of the world,

Marshall