To the Flock. . .

We have made a commitment this year to worshipping, studying, reading our way through the Bible. The year is half over and we have made it th rough the Old Testament. The people of Judah have returned home, rebuilt the Temple, rebuilt the walls around Jerusalem. Yet they are still ruled by a foreign power and are threatened on all sides. They long for a Savior. Their prophets warn them to be faithful and promise that God is sending a deliverer. That longing continues to grow over the 400 years or so in the inter-testamental period, the times between the Old Testament and the New Testament. They dream about what that deliverer will be like, the feeling of freedom, the taste of revent...

The stage is set for the Messiah to come. Beginning July 25, we will turn our attention to God's revelation to all humanity in Jesus of Jazareth. We have been increasing our biblical literacy. We have been studying the whole story of the Bible to better understand God's story and our place in it. It is our hope that our learning together will make us a congregation that understands God's word and God's plan. The story of salvation is our story. It is my hope that we all become more confident in our biblical knowledge so that we better understand God's plans for humanity, our church, our families, and ourselves.

If you haven't been reading or are behind, now is a great time to catch up. Just as the Israelites had to wait about 400 years for their Savior, we will have a break of about four weeks before continuing our journey through God's word on July 25 when we celebrate Christmas in July. See you in church!
Shamaine