August 28, 2017 - Sunday was the 21st Sunday of Ordinary Time. Our hearts go out to those along the coast and in the Houston area as Hurricane Harvey is certainly dealing a devastating blow. I imagine most East Texans have relatives and friends in the affected area. I have received many emails from the Conference and District offices about relief efforts: United Methodist Relief (UMCOR) is already helping, as are numerous other volunteer organizations. All donations to UMCOR go to actual relief since Methodist churches, large and small, pay the administrative costs through their apportionments. It is heartwarming to see so many organizations—as well as individuals and neighbors—helping with flood rescue and relief.
The Epistle Lesson came from Paul’s letter to the Romans. This letter was certainly important to Protestant Reformers like Martin Luther. A few centuries later, John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, was at a Bible Study dealing with Luther’s commentary on this letter when he felt his heart “strangely warmed” and knew that God loved him. This letter to the Romans spelled out Paul’s understanding of the faith and of being a true and living sacrifice for God.
We all missed Fannie this morning while she was attending the baptism of a great-grandchild. I filled in as Sunday school teacher on the lesson from Acts. This was the final lesson of the quarter which dealt with “answering the call.” In our scripture Peter’s narrow ideas begin to expand as he welcomes Cornelius and other Gentiles into the faith.
During the month of August we have collected children’s underwear and socks for Community Christian Services. This was a holdover from the days at Joaquin Methodist when Ms. Gayle always got new clothes, shoes, backpacks, and school supplies together for the kids who needed them as they headed back to school. In September we will collect boxes of macaroni and cheese for Community Christian Services.
Our Lakeside Assisted Living program was last Thursday afternoon. Minnie played piano for the group singing. Gene did two specials, including the haunting “Summertime” from Porgy and Bess. Fannie and Ollie both read heartfelt selections. Sue didn’t read this time, as she was busy emceeing, assisted by Maggie. Hilda and Margie were both in attendance, helping with the singing. We also had a very special blessing: Emily Taylor and Joyce Hughes brought their harps and treated us to solos and duets, including “Eidelweiss,” “Greensleeves,” “The Angel Hymn,” and “This Is My Father’s World.”
I hope the kids and teachers and other school staff have had a good start. Our prayers go out to our good friend Ronnie King as he awaits surgery. Jerry Foshee stopped by and visited for a few minutes. It was so great to see him and to get an update on Neva, the girls, and their families. My dog Abner was not very friendly: I think he is getting old and cantankerous like his human companion!
“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 10am. 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.
Randy & Sue Smith
Paxton Methodist Church
