Worship Preview 10.13.24 "Do Unto Others: Compassion"

First United Methodist Church  for 10.12.24 edition

This Sunday: 10:30am – “Do Unto Others: Compassion” Rev. Christopher Eshelman preaching. Scriptures: Isaiah 11:6-9 and Luke 6:6-10

This week, we continue our worship series that invites us to consider the qualities that will help us navigate the divisions we are experiencing in our world. This week, we consider compassion. Why do we need this quality more than ever now? Because we are complex beings living in a complex world. We sometimes deal with conflict within us in addition to the conflict between us. Research tells us that because we humans are desperate for a sense of cohesion and belonging in these confusing times, we are hanging onto ideological generalities instead of treating ourselves and each other with the compassion required to alleviate despair. Compassion grows when we are able to know ourselves and one another on a deeper level and act out of understanding. 

In part of our service called “Peace Across the Divide” our liturgist will share these thoughts – you may have felt similarly. 

Reader 1: Sometimes I can’t make out my own thoughts, much less yours.

Reader 2: Making sense of this life and this time seems unreachable.

Reader 1: What if we never figure it out?

Reader 2: What if we become too estranged?

Reader 1: I cannot imagine your viewpoint.

Reader 2: I’m not sure I am willing to believe that any solution will work. 

Last week we noted that the act of simply coming together is “revolutionary,” which in its earliest form meant “finding a course around a central point.” We gather around the Light of Christ as the center and guiding light of our lives. This becomes our point of reference for our relationships and our love in the world. So, we are invited to breathe. To take a deep breath – to literally be “inspired.” We are invited to be intentionally kind – and to let our hearts be filled with compassion. Compassion means “to suffer together.”

Sometimes we want to shut off our natural inclination towards compassion – there is too much suffering and we feel overwhelmed. Much of our world right now seems to be designed to convince us that things are hopeless and that we cannot make a difference. But the good news is that Love wins. The good news is that Christ – the crucified, yet lives! The good news is that we are not alone – Christ is with us; and that darkness does not overcome the light of Christ. Suffering does not overcome the compassion of Christ. Together we can make choices that lead to solutions that work!

So intentionally engaging in compassion is to let the light and love of Christ bring us peace in the midst of the storms and to find how we have been equipped to respond – to ourselves and others, with both kindness and compassion. Our scripture texts this week draw from an ancient and beloved image of hope and wholeness given to the prophet Isaiah and the unexpected, unconventional healing given by Jesus. In our story from Luke, a man with a withered hand is made whole – on the Sabbath. Note that he doesn’t ask for this. The religious authorities protest against it, but Jesus does it. Sunday we’ll explore why – and how that why continues to shape us here and now. 

Look for the yard signs with the heart and “join the campaign” encouraging us all to live lives of kindness, respect, love, humility, and compassion – reflecting the faith of Christ! And join us to explore these themes more deeply as we gather at 10:30am each Sunday at 301 S National, or online on Facebook if you can’t make it in or you’d like to check things out first. Blessings on your journey!

Upcoming Events: 

Wednesday, October 16th  5:30–6:30pm: Feeding Families in His Name – this free meal is available to everyone without obligation. A “to-go” meal is distributed under the portico at 301 S. National. A reminder: Please do not block nearby driveways while waiting. Thank you. If you would like to support this ministry, you can make donations online at: www.firstumcfortscott.org/onlinegiving. 

Fellowship Soup Luncheon Friday, October 25th at 11:30am –we will offer a delicious lunch for a freewill donation fundraiser to support the mission and ministries of our church – join us for potato and vegetable soups and chili, with desert and fellowship with your neighbors!

Gospel Concert – Saturday, October 26th at 6pm featuring Ernie Couch and Revival! Join your neighbors in our Sanctuary for another freewill offering Gospel Concert. “From its inception, EC&R has produced high energy, emotionally colorful music reflective of the diverse musical heritage that has made Music City home of Nashville internationally famous. The groups unique blend of traditional, country, and contemporary gospel music speaks to people of all ages and all walks of life.”  Mark your calendars and invite a friend!

Trunk or Treat! Thursday, October 31st at 5:30pm bring the kids or grandkids for games and candy – or decorate your own car and hand out candy here! We will block off the lot behind the church at 5:20pm for safety and finish at sundown. Celebrate “All Hallows Eve” with us at 3rd and Main!