Dear Friends,
I don’t know about you, but I’ve lost some perspective over the last few months of this quarantine. I’ve been so focused on news about Covid-19 and when and how things are going to open, I’ve been so disappointed with how divided we have become over the reality of the crisis that people are acting like not wearing a face mask is an act of liberty, that I’ve not given enough thought to the killing of Ahmaud Arbery as he was jogging in his home town in Georgia.
All I can say is that as Christians we believe that all people are created in God’s image. And so it follows that no matter the color, religion, sexual identity, nationality of a person we as followers of Christ see a child of God created in the image of God. God’s image, God’s imprint on each person is what makes us one. And that each person is God’s beloved child is what calls us to love one another. What we are seeing in our nation now is that some people are viewed as created in God’s image more than others. And those who are less imprinted with God’s image are less valuable.
As I walked this morning I couldn’t help but think of Ahmaud’s family and friends. I mourned their loss and the loss of the potential of this young man’s life. But mostly I was ashamed by my silence and my lack of perspective. So I prayed, “Help me to see every person as you beloved child, created in your image. Help me to speak up when I see your image in others being diminished by racism, sexism, and hatred. And God, please forgive me for the things that I do not do.”
I know that we will be together again. It might not be exactly the way it used to be, but it will be good. So be patient and take care of yourself. I love you and miss you. And if you need to talk, please give me call. I’d love to hear from you.
All loving Creator, whose care for us is unfailing, use us to show others how you can bring good from evil and joy from suffering. May our faith in the coming resurrection give us the compassion and courage we need to bring Christ’s love to the world. Be with those who are sick, isolated, or fearful. Strengthen them with your love. Amen
SHINE ZOOM Small Group: Connecting to God Every Day
Thursday, May 21 06:00 PM It’s not to late to join us. If you are interested or would like more information please give Pastor Bob a call.
Jamestown Area Faith Community Food Fight
In partnership with faith communities, Brigiotta's Market, and the Mobile Market we are addressing food security and issues of hunger within our city and the wider county.
Monetary donations will be collected through May 18, 2020. All food will stay local and be directed to the Food Pantry
of our congregation’s choice
Reminders:
+The church office hours: 10:00-1:00 Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday.
(Closed Monday and Friday)
+If you would like to talk with me or need help in any way, I am in the office
(487-1984) during office hours or you can reach me on my cell phone (499-7217)
+Drive-in Worship 10:00 am
+Come to church. Park and stay in your car. Tune your car stereo to 90.7
+Video Worship – Organ Prelude 10:30 Worship 10:45 am.
Live Streaming at firstpresjamestown.com +Click here for The bulletin for Sunday
Peace, Pastor Bob
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