All are invited to join us for Service on Sunday, March 23 at 10 am.  The United Harmony Handbell group will be joining the service.

Sunday school runs during the service and there is coffee after the service.  Hope that you can make it.

Here are Rev. Marlene’s thoughts on the upcoming service.

Marlene’s Rev. Notes:

“‘Sir,’ the man replied, ‘leave it alone for one more year, and I’ll dig around it and fertilize it. If it bears fruit next year, fine! If not, then cut it down.’”                                        Luke 13:8-9.

This week’s scripture passage captures the key messages of mercy, patience, and the opportunity for repentance and renewal. The gardener (symbolizing God’s grace) pleads for more time for the fig tree which does not produce fruit; emphasizing hope and transformation—perfect for a Lenten reflection!

The opening describes how some people inform Jesus about a violent incident where Pilate executed Galileans while they were offering sacrifices. (This was probably a politically motivated act of oppression). Jesus uses this tragic event to challenge the assumption that suffering is always a result of personal sin. Many Jews at the time believed that tragedy was a punishment for wrongdoing. Jesus shifts the focus from external events to personal repentance. Instead of speculating about others’ sins, He urges everyone to turn from sin to avoid self destruction.

Jesus then refers to another tragic accident (a tower collapse) to further illustrate that suffering is not necessarily linked to greater sinfulness. He repeats His warning, emphasizing that repentance is necessary for all, not just those who suffer visibly tragic fates. Next the owner of the fig tree expects growth but finds none. So, the owner is ready to judge the tree for its’ lack of fruit. Thankfully, the caretaker intercedes, asking for more time and effort to help the tree become fruitful. The tree is given one final chance, showing God’s patience but also His expectation of repentance and change.

This passage suggests several questions: Are we actively repenting and seeking transformation, or do we take God’s patience for granted? How can we bear spiritual fruit—in our relationships, our church community, and our daily actions? And do we see tragedies as reminders to draw closer to God, rather than as proof of divine punishment?