5/3/20

Sermon Notes:

Our first reading for Sunday is Acts 2:42-47. This passage reflects the actions and functions of the church, to be a family together, to watch out for one another, to break bread together and to encourage each one along in life. 

It is a beautiful vision of the church.

We do not have to read much further in the New Testament to see that this vision was as challenging for early Christ followers as it sometimes is for 21st century people. We do not have to be disheartened by this, though, for it is not by our hands that we are saved, but by God’s.

And the blessings of gathering as the church are great. We are worth it! And we are the church, even in this exceptional time of not being able to gather physically.

We show our love and care for one another by practicing social distancing and staying home as much as possible, until the virus abates. We show our love and care for one another by staying in contact by phone and social media. We show our love and care for one another through prayer.

The second scripture we will read is John 10:1-10 in which Jesus calls himself the good shepherd. He gathers in his flock, and his sheep know his voice.

Friends, I pray you feel your connection to Emmanuel, to your brothers and sisters here. I pray you hear the voice of the good shepherd, assuring you of life abundant and guiding your steps as you make your way through these days. 

We all belong. And we are all connected. The Good Shepherd has seen to it and it is so.

Please reach out to me if you have not been contacted yet by me or by one of our session members. We are working together to stay updated on each other’s lives and needs.

Even in a time of threat, even in times of trouble, life abundant is ours: a fullness of love, of joy, and of deep confidence knowing we are loved. Our awareness of this may come and go, but it is always true. Please know you are being prayed for daily and very much missed!

See you online Sunday!

Yours,

Jane