January 11, 2016 - It was a cold start Sunday morning. Everyone at church sure appreciated Fannie coming last night and turning on the heaters. We are in the season of the Epiphany. Today traditionally is “the Baptism of our Lord” Sunday. All four of the Gospels tell of Jesus’ baptism by John. After his baptism and his forty days off by himself, Jesus’ ministry begins. Some historians say that Jesus’ ministry was only a year long, but most believe it was three years. So little is known about this time that it is hard to tell just how long it was. This day is also a day to remember our own baptisms and our own journeys in life and toward the love of God. This Sunday is a great reminder that we are all precious to God.
I filled in for Fannie to teach an unusual lesson from the Old Testament—the Song of Songs. There is no doubt that all the poetry in this book celebrates romance and love. It is beautiful poetry, and we understand that God made us for each other and that we are to love and cherish our family and friends. Both Jewish and Christian writers often speak of these poems as an allegory, with the man being God and the woman Israel.
On Monday Hilda, Fannie, and Sue joined others at Green Acres. Our newest ministry is the first Monday of each month at 2:00 at Green Acres. Also each month we go to Holliday and Lakeside . During the month of January we are collecting tuna fish for Community Christian Services. I have a couple of boxes of soup cans that I need to deliver to the food bank.
“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 9:15 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!
Randall Smith, Pastor
