Worship Preview 2.5.23 "Share
Press Release: for Feb 4, 2023 edition.
First United Methodist Church
This Weekend: Sunday at 10:30am “Share: In the Breaking…”
Scriptures: Proverbs 3:13-35 and Luke 24:13-35 – with Rev. Christopher Eshelman preaching.
Last week we talked about being conformed to the image of Christ and following him in service. This week we continue to think about how we follow and reflect Christ in sharing the gifts we have been given. Jesus reveals himself in the breaking. In humility he became flesh. He taught, healed, he equipped and sent disciples. Today’s beloved text is only found in Luke. After the crucifixion, the followers of Jesus are understandably distraught and confused. They “had hoped…” but it seems like things have ended badly. We, gathering in Jesus’ name early in 2023 know the rest of the story. Can we place ourselves with the disciples in that uncertainty? The lack of clarify about what our next step should be? In these days between Christmas and Lent / Easter, can we experience a new Epiphany? A new recognition of Jesus - still present with us – and still leading us into the world.
We are surrounded by the grace of Christ – it comes before we know, it enables our growth, it leads us into service, and it calls us to share – in generosity and in witness of our own experience of Christ.
We will draw on our reading from Proverbs to help us claify our understanding of Christ and of what it means to share Christ.
In Luke, Jesus is revealed to these two followers in the breaking of the bread. All along the road they had talked of the events of Jesus’ ministry. They had been amazed that this stranger didn’t seem to know of recent events – so they bore witness – even in their confusion and sorrow. Then, still without yet recognizing him, their hearts are aflame as he “opens the Scriptures to them.” As we engage in our lifelong journey of relationship with Christ, growing in Christ, serving with Christ – we are called to be witnesses – and not always with words. Rather we should recognize, and share with others, the presence of Jesus – in the breaking of bread; in the breaking of unjust systems and patterns; in the breaking open of our hearts and minds to see and share the new reality Christ reveals - that we, and the world, might be transformed.
No matter where you are on your own journey of faith, you are invited to join in worship and celebration at 10:30am at 301 S. National, coming just as you are, with your questions, doubts and hopes - and to experience the transformative, healing love and grace of Christ - which makes us whole. Visit www.firstumcfsks.org/newvisitors for more information on what to expect.
Upcoming Events: Wednesday, Feb 8, 5:30pm Feeding Families in His Name – this weekly free meal is available to everyone without obligation. A “to-go” meal is distributed under the portico at 301 S. National. We are thankful for all the volunteers from other area churches and community groups that make this meal possible each week.
Mark your calendar for our next “Shepherd’s Center: Adventures in Learning” event coming March 10th!
IMAGE:
“El Reconegueren Quan Partia el Pa” (They Recognized Him When He Broke the Bread) Maximino Cerezo Barredo (1932–), Spanish Claretian priest
