09/21/2021
From Larry’s desk . . . .
It seems that the long, hot, dry, smoky summer months have come to a close. This week, children, teachers, and bus drivers are returning to school. We pray that the return to in person learning can be done safely for everyone.
Looking ahead for the fall season at Hope, we will once again turn to the Narrative Lectionary in worship. This year, the gospel focus will be on the Gospel According to John. For me, it is exciting to be able to hear the good news of this gospel as it was intended to be heard. The school year will begin with a look at some important texts from our story as told in the Old Testament. Then on the fourth Sunday of Advent we will turn to the gospel.
There is a compelling reason (at least for me) for using this approach in worship. About ten years ago, I discovered that both confirmation students and adults have forgotten most of the stories that we usually learn in Sunday school classes. One student could not tell the Christmas story. All she knew about Christmas was wrapped up in trees, decorations, gifts, and a break from school. One of the adult members of the church council was confused about the events during holy week and Easter Sunday. Even those who were well versed in those two major events could not connect them with our story and the covenants and promises from creation to the birth of the Messiah. I felt then, and as I feel now, that the good news of Jesus the Christ loses meaning for us without that wonderful back story. The Narrative Lectionary offers us an opportunity to “tell the old, old story” in a meaningful way and help us connect that story as our own story.
I love to tell the story of unseen things above, of Jesus and his glory, of Jesus and his love. I love to tell the story, because I know it’s true; it satisfies my longings as nothing else would do. I love to tell the story; how pleasant to repeat what seems, each time I tell it, more wonderfully sweet! I love to tell the story for some have never heard the message of salvation from God’s own holy word. I love to tell the story for those who know it best seem hungering and thirsting to hear it like the rest. And when, in scenes of glory, I sing the new, new song, I’ll sing the old, old story that I have loved so long.
Come and join your church family while we explore our wonderful old story and bring it back to life for us, for our congregation, and for the world around us. Remember that some have never heard, and even those who have, delight in the good news that is ours.
Peace be with you!
Larry
PS I love to hear from folks, so please don’t hesitate to call or email. Here is my contact info:
Phones: Home 218-879-2441; Cell 218-206-5933. Email: [email protected]
May your days be blessed with happiness and joy
