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Hello St. John’s Family,
So often today we find ourselves facing a multitude of responsibilities, with not nearly enough time to complete those responsibilities. Our task lists and calendars are maxed out; our schedules are jam-packed with an endless array of obligations that we must ensure are met. Simply navigating the daily demands we face and making it the end of the week is no small accomplishment. The pace and weight of modern life is significant.
While in worship last Sunday, I was struck by the meaningful and uplifting music offered by our Praise Band, Choirs, and Bell Choirs during the Music Sunday Worship Services. From the exuberance and joy of our youngest singers, to the moving offerings of our Praise Band and Bell Choirs, to the powerful concluding songs of our Combined Choir, God was glorified and our congregation was uplifted by their offerings of praise. Offerings that are given to God in our worship on Sundays… and are given to God through many hours of rehearsals throughout the year. As I listened to a number of congregants share how meaningful the services were, I thought of how blessed we are that so many give of their musical gifts and time to honor God at St. John’s. I want to thank all our Choir and Bell Choir members, along with Roy Nelson, Alissa Nelson, and Brian Barber for their excellent leadership. Your willingness to prioritize time to honor God through the Music Ministries of St. John’s is a blessing to so many people!
As the conclusion of the school year signals summer’s arrival, many are looking forward to opportunities to relax and recharge. That’s a good thing! We need those times of restoration and renewal with family and friends. I pray you will be able to share in the fun experiences of summer, enjoying a respite from the daily demands of life. I also pray you will take the opportunity to prioritize your relationship with God this summer. Here at St. John’s there will be something for everyone, with fun and engaging programming for children and youth, along with meaningful worship opportunities for all ages. Join us as we set aside time to be with the One who restores our soul (Psalm 23:3).
This Sunday is Father’s Day, and we’ll give thanks to God for the gift of loving fathers. We understand God as our Heavenly Father, whose deep love for all people is unchanging. We know we’re supposed to honor God and live according to God’s ways. So, what are we to do when others around us suggest something that appears to go against God’s ways, we pray about it, and God gives a green light to what we think is wrong? That’s exactly what happened to Samuel, the Old Testament prophet and judge. I sense Samuel’s experience has much to teach us today about the depth of God’s love and grace. Check out I Samuel 8:1-22, and join me in worship on Sunday-
Grace and Peace,
Pastor Brad
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