Worship Preview 10.6.24 "Do Unto Others: Kindness"

This Sunday: 10:30am – “Do Unto Others: Kindness” Rev. Christopher Eshelman preaching. Scriptures: Matthew 7:7-29, Proverbs 26:4-5 and 27:17-20

Our world seems to be consumed with division– here in the US often typified in the colors red and blue. We increasingly have separate news sources, social groups, and worldviews…  Yet Jesus regularly crossed these sorts of boundaries! Jesus called fishermen and tax collectors. Jesus visited Samaritan women, healed outcasts, and fed the masses in both Jewish and Gentile territory. Jesus’ call to “follow me” and the “Golden Rule” found in Jesus’ sermons in both Matthew and Luke (and a similar phrasing found nearly every other major religious tradition) challenges us to engage in conversation and seek to create whatever common good we can with our relatives, friends, and neighbors who we might consider to be on the “other side” socially, politically and ideologically.

And scientifically, we know that the people we think we are most different from share about 99% of our DNA. This surely makes us “kin!” We are far more alike than we are different. Pastor Christopher is fond of reminding us that “we are all unique and unrepeatable – just like everybody else!” This week we begin a new series that many other United Methodists (and other congregations) around the country are also exploring. In cooperation with Worship Design Studio and the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection in KC. Entitled “Do Unto Others,” it will help us think about how we stand firm in essentials while also being committed to loving like Christ as we face the spiritual consequences of the divisions in our society. We will begin and end the series with Holy Communion – celebrating World Communion Sunday on 10/6 and All Saints Sunday on 11/3! We celebrate at Christ’s table, and all are welcome to partake as we experience God’s grace and presence through the bread and cup.

One of the prayers we will share Sunday says this: “God of Mercy, we ask you to come mighty close, for we are a divided world, and we are not sure of our footing in this moment. Steady us, and invite us to “do unto others” in ways that build up your kin-dom on earth as it is in heaven. We pray this in the name of Jesus, the Center That Holds, and in the power of the Spirit That Transforms. Amen!”

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 9th  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 Luncheons return – as we have for many years, on the fourth Friday of most fall and winter months, we will offer a delicious lunch as a freewill donation fundraiser to support the mission and ministries of our church – join us Friday, October 25th from 11:30am to 1pm for potato and vegetable soups and chili, with desert!

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!