All are invited to Sunday’s Church service at 10 am on June 30.  There is no Sunday school during the summer months, but there is still time for coffee and a visit after the service.

Here are a few thoughts from Rev. Marlene about this Sunday’s service.

“See that you also excel in this grace of giving” 2 Corinthians 8:7

2 Corinthians is well-known for Paul’s attempts to reconcile with the community.

Here, he bravely enters into the subject of money. A prickly subject at best, when approached in many congregations. Throughout his missionary travels, Paul encourages his faith communities to support the impoverished mother church in

Jerusalem.  He tries to persuade them by praising their faith, speech, knowledge and his love for them. Paul sees all of this as reason enough for them to “excel also in their generous undertaking.” Yet we know that there is a love greater than Paul’s. The love of Jesus who was “rich” (divine) and became “poor” (human) for their sake. This image resonates powerfully in Philippians 2:6-11, which describes how Jesus surrendered his divinity to assume humanity.

Finally, as if the gifts in which they excel and Jesus own example are not enough, Paul also states that the collection is a “question of fair balance,” recalling Exodus 16:18. Paul reminds the Corinthians and us as well, that in collecting manna in the

wilderness, God assured the Hebrews that all would have enough if each took as God directed, so that the needs of all are met.

So how do we live in Christ today? By following the example of the Hebrews in the wilderness and the poor Christ united with humanity. By embracing mutual concerns as we support our ability to remain a diverse and strong church. By reflecting Christ’s generosity toward us; by being generous toward others.

                                                                        Rev. Marlene