April 16, 2018 - Sunday was the Third Sunday of Easter. The Gospel for Sunday was Luke 24: 36b-48. The story was about the two disciples on the road to Emmaus who have an encounter with the resurrected Lord. This wonderful story is only found in the Luke gospel and the sharing of a meal was what triggered the experience. These two frightened disciples have fled Jerusalem and met up with a stranger. To their surprise the stranger knew nothing of the last few days, so they fill him on the events surrounding Jesus. After the resurrection encounter, the two disciples realize that the Spirit had warmed their hearts: Their despair has changed once again to hope.
Our Sunday school lesson was titled “Follow Me.” The story from John 21: 15-23 sees Jesus quizzing Peter on whether Peter truly loves him. Three times Peter answers in the affirmative. Ms. Fannie pointed out that our author tends to point out things that we wouldn’t normally explore.
We were so pleased as we were finishing up Sunday school to see Lillie, Liz, and Mike come in. It is always such a treat when they venture up from Houston. We of course talked a little baseball. Fannie told us that the Hispanic congregation that met at Paxton Methodist for many years will dedicate their own church next Saturday. It has been great to watch the progress of the building (on Hwy. 96 between Tenaha and Center). Our church also extended Steven Evans’ scholarship for this year; he graduates after this semester.
Last Thursday a group of us met at Focused Care for singing and stories. When I got there, Hilda was already playing the piano and had everybody singing. The residents at Focused Care really enjoy the old church songs. Fannie shared some stories full of wisdom and Nora sang a special. Nora’s sister Jo also helped out with the singing—nice to have her back after her recovery. This Tuesday we head to Holiday Nursing Center for a program.
“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. Godspeed.
