February 15, 2016 - Sunday, St. Valentine’s Day, was the First Sunday in Lent. A 40-day period of prayer and reflection leading up to Easter, Lent is celebrated by most Christians around the world. The Sundays in Lent are not actually part of Lent but are seen as “little Easters.”
My scripture came from the first book of the Ancient Hebrews—Genesis 1: 26-31. During Lent we are reminded that our creator is still about creating. As the hands, feet, eyes, and ears of the Christ, we are to be a church that is open, loving, and caring regardless of size, and we are to be about grace and forgiveness. These must always be the cornerstones of our faith.
What a beautiful week we have had! The weatherman said last night that we might get some rain and that we need it. I guess he was right, but having sunshine and springtime temperatures sure calls us to go outdoors and enjoy the day. I have many raised beds in my yard, needing me to weed and clean up—what fun!
Fannie’s Sunday school lesson was based on Leviticus 23: 15-22. The scripture outlines worship during the Festival of Weeks, also called Pentecost. Even though the practices certainly have changed, the need for worship—for praising God and for renewal—remains the same today.
It was great to have everyone this morning—we were in double digits! Before worship is time for all of us to visit, and we at Paxton are a very sociable people! Mrs. Hilda was back today, making our singing sound much better, and Joe picked some well-known songs. “This Is My Father’s World” has such nice lyrics about enjoying all God has given us.
This Tuesday, February 16th is our ministry to Holiday Nursing Center. On Thursday February 24th at 2:00 will be our ministry at Lakeside Assisted Living. We welcome anyone who wants to join us to bring songs, stories, and prayer to the residents.
“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!
