March 14, 2017 - Sunday was the Second Sunday in Lent. Every Sunday in Lent was seen by ancient Christians as a “little Easter.” The Old Testament Lesson was the story of Abraham and Sarah receiving the call from God. We are told that without question or hesitation that Abraham and Sarah pull up stakes and follow God. In Old Testament imagery moving toward God is described as going to the “Promised Land.” In our New Testament Lesson we see Nicodemus meet Jesus under the cover of darkness. Our story tells us that Nicodemus is intrigued by this small town rabbi, but Nicodemus is presented with more questions than answers. He is most concerned with Jesus’ seeming tolerance to Gentiles. But Jesus keeps speaking about being born anew. The Gospel Lesson from John 3 included the most recited verse in Christianity.
My daughter and I took off to Arizona to watch pre-season baseball. We are long-time Cubs fans, and this year we have something to celebrate. We saw three Cubs games and visited with some cousins who live in Tempe. Paxton Methodist had a Sunday of song, scripture, and stories. Fannie and Larry told the history of Paxton and Tenaha. Joe and Hilda sang a special, and Sue read a story. Also last week, a group went to Green Acres, which is now under a different name, for our monthly ministry. Pastor Matt led the program and gave a devotional from Genesis. Nora and Jo sang a duet, and Nora read a picture book of Dolly Parton’s song about her “many-colored coat.” Hilda and Minnie traded off piano duties. Sue read Part 1 of Dr. Seuss’ “You’re Only Old Once.” It was another of those rainy days I missed in sunny Phoenix.
It was great to be back at Paxton. It seemed that I was gone for a long time, and my wife informed me that our dogs and granddog aren’t very good conversationalists. It was wonderful to have Liz and Charlie worship with us this morning. Liz and Charlie are two of my favorite people in the whole wide world! Paxton received a certificate of appreciation from the Bishop for once again paying 100% of our apportionments. Apportionments are a church’s part in supporting schools, universities, hospitals, and missions around the world.
“Whoever you are, in whatever faith you were born, whatever creed you profess; if you come to this house to find God you are welcome here.” Paxton United Methodist Church is an inviting church that takes to heart the idea of “Open Doors, Open Hearts, Open Minds.” Sunday School starts at 9:30 and Worship begins at 10:00. Our email address is paxtonumc@yahoo.com. If you would like the weekly email newsletter about Paxton Methodist you can send me your email address to the Paxton email address and I will add you to the list. God’s Speed!
