Pastor's Notes

While it has been nice digging further into the Wisdom Literature in the Old Testament in September, it will be wonderful to get back into the Gospel. Our next sermon series will cover Mark 10:17-52 over three weeks and focuses on how we “Take Up Your Cross.” These three consecutive passages in Mark 10 give us a little more insight into what Jesus was talking about when he told a crowd earlier in Mark’s Gospel to “take up their cross.” Interactions with a rich man, disciples James and John, and a blind beggar each reveal part of the challenge of taking up our cross. This series looks closely at the different parts of this act of discipleship and what it means for our day-to-day lives. There will be many ways you can live out discipleship throughout the month of October. Personally I’m looking forward to our Wednesday evening schedule to ramp up again. StartingOctober 2nd, each 1st and 3rd Wednesday evening of the month will be filled with food, fellowship, and fun for the kids. 5:30pm-6:15pm or so the Free Community Meal will be held. This has been a wonderful time for families not to have to worry about what’s on the menu at home as they scramble after school and work to get to Sparks and Confirmation. But others in our community have also attended and it has been a wonderful time of connection with neighbors. Please spread the word to those you know who may be in need of a hot meal and a sense of community. Sparks then starts around 6:15pm and Confirmation at 6:30pm. Those Wednesdays aren’t just for the youth to learn more about their faith; but that’s also when Bible Study has been heldas well at 1:30pm. We have thoroughly been enjoying watching episodes of “The Chosen” and having life discussions based on what the theme for the episode was. As I’ve mentioned beforewhen announcing these gatherings, it is a really low-entry way to engage with scripture and others. Even if you can’t come join us at study, I highly encourage you to watch this show on your own. All of the episodes stream for free on their website. We have all been so impressed with how the producers bring to life the Gospel stories and you can see more of what was happening behind the scenes in response to Jesus’ ministry. More food fellowship happens with Ladies and Mens breakfasts throughout the month - these are open to folks at both churches. And at the end of the month we get to celebrate Reformation Sunday. It’s one of my favorite church holidays because it reminds me just how much I love Lutheran theology and am thankful for Martin Luther listening to the Holy Spirit over 500 years ago to challenge what we believe in the church and how we are to be the body of Christ for others. Another way we can live out our discipleship lives is by getting out and appreciating God’s creation. Our summer park walks have grown over the last three summers and I love getting out into the parks in the fall as well to experience the color changes for the season. Take a look at the monthly calendar to see when and where we will be heading for our fall county park walks this year. We not only get to see the beauty of creation, but we get to experience the creation of OURSELVES as we move our bodies and feel our hearts pumping within us. We are just as much God’s creation as what surrounds us - moving our bodies helps give glory to God! One way you can be the body of Christ for others, in a fun way, is to attend the Dalbo Fire Department Bingo night! We are so blessed to still have a fire department in our neighborhood, and the volunteers give so much of their time and energy to help our community during difficult times; and one way we can give back to them is by attending their events. The Bingo night is scheduled for Saturday, October 12th - hopefully you can make it to greet all your neighbors and support the work of our local fire department. What other ways can you think of to live out lives of discipleship this upcoming month? This doesn’t necessarily need to happen within the church walls. I encourage you to think of ways you can be the hands and feet of God to your neighbors each and every day. The life of discipleship is not like a job where you can clock in and out. Discipleship doesn’t care that you’re retired. As long as we are still living our lives it is an opportunity to learn more aboutGod so we can share God with others whenever possible. Take care, Pastor Mary Fielprmaryfiel@gmail.com (507) 525-3909 cell