Between Sundays for Week of September 9, 2024
Be curious. Ask questions. It’s not the most churchy theme for the start of a new church program year, but as we hear Jesus’ encounters in Mark 7:24-37, we see Jesus engaging the world around him and being open to new ideas about the immensity of God’s love.
In Sunday’s sermon, Pastor Hoffman shared the story of The Girl with Big Questions by Britney Winn Lee. The story reminds us of how often our response to the insistence and persistence of others around us may be to roll our eyes and try to close ourselves off. Thankfully that is never God’s response to us!
This week’s gospel reminds us our requests and needs are always valid and always heard by God, even if they sometimes bring changes to how we experience God in the world. It also reveals that God has the power to open our eyes, minds and hearts. When we think we know all the answers we are closed off the world around us. We need the perspective and experience and skills of one another both to ask good questions and to respond in ways that help us love our neighbor and each other.
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P.S. View the worship livestream on BLC’s YouTube Channel, or watch past services on the Share in Worship page of BLC’s website!
Faith Connection at Home
Hello Families! As part of my new role as Coordinator of Faith Formation, I am adding a new feature to the Between Sundays communication. Faith is not something that can only grow or develop at church. In fact, home is one of the most formative places for our faith to grow. Watch this space for weekly tips, ideas or activities to use with the children and youth in your life as you grow in faith together.
This year, BLC will be praying for 5 children, youth or young adults who are part of our community during our weekly prayer petitions. We have thought of a wonderful way to grow connections between generations and let these young people know BLC is praying for and thinking of them: send them mail! Ask me (Patty), a pastor or an usher where to find a postcard, and then jot a note before or after service to one of the young people. Leave your completed postcard in the provided basket and we will mail it on your behalf. We are excited at what could come from this new way to build community.
Patty Chaffee
Family Faith Formation Coordinator
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Ponderings
Prayer of the Day from worship on Sunday, September 8
Jesus, you asked questions as much as you answered them. You never shied away from conversation. You were always sparking curiosity, opening people’s minds, and engaging in the art of connection with everyone around you. As we come to your Word and gather in this company of saints, give us the same curiosity, openness and connection, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.
Adapted from prayers by Rev. Sarah Are, A Sanctified Art LLC. sanctifiedart.org
