February 19, 2019 - Love and peace from our brother, Jesus. Sunday was the 6th Sunday of Epiphany. The season of Epiphany is longer in 2019 since Easter isn’t until Sunday, April 21st this year. The forty days of Lent are a time of preparation for Christians. I enjoy the season of Epiphany because I like to imagine and contemplate the quiet moving of God into our everyday lives.
We had some of the faithful out this past Sunday. Joe had surgery on Friday, and they kept him overnight at the hospital. His son, Ben is with him; we all pray that Joe is feeling better each day. Carolyn’s brother-in-law, Leroy Fisher, passed away, and Carolyn has gone to be with her sister. We hope that all are doing OK during this time of bereavement.
Ms. Fannie’s Sunday School lesson focused on remembering to praise God for his mighty works in our lives. The scripture was from the Jewish songbook—The Psalms. The background text was Psalm 66. The author said this psalm gives us a context for interpreting life and identifying God’s activity on our behalf. In our worship and praise we are reminded that yes, life is hard, but that God is good. God is always on the side of health and wholeness. We have one more lesson in this quarter, so Gene brought our new books—Spring 2019. Yes!
Gene filled in as song leader this morning, and Ms. Hilda played the piano. We appreciate both of these folks and the music they provide for us. The Gospel Lesson for the 6th Sunday of Epiphany was Luke 6: 17-26. These verses are Luke’s version of the beatitudes, with Jesus speaking not from a mountain but on the plains. Luke’s beatitudes are fewer and are accompanied by woes or curses. There is no doubt where Jesus stands on justice and compassion.
This past week we headed to Focused Care in Center for our monthly ministry. We had a big crowd of residents and folks from Joaquin Methodist. One of their members, Chestine, is rehabbing there and sang two specials in her beautiful, clear voice. Theresa played the piano—nice to see and hear her play again. Pastor Robert and his wife Ann joined together on piano and voice to lead the residents in a rousing hymn. Pastor Matt was our MC, bringing a message and prayer. Fannie read some poetry that was perfect for Valentine’s Day. Nora sang in her strong, a capella voice. Everyone really seemed to have a good time. It was great to have the folks from Joaquin join us.
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.
