What an amazing worship experience last week – with Pastor Carl’s sermon, Pastor Eric’s children message, the Thanksgiving moment with our youth returning from their Mission Trip, and the moving solo by Seminarian Adriana that brought tears to many, many eyes (“Give Me Jesus”). If you weren’t able to be here last week, you can still find the service online on our LS YouTube Channel or Facebook page. This Sunday, we will be blessed with a special duet by Cathy Lowman & Kay Herbert! On the 9th Sunday after Pentecost, we hear about the joy & peace that comes from a life lived in trust of God’s promises and the Lord’s love & care. Jesus shares these beautiful words, “Do not be afraid, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom!” (Luke 12:32). The Old & New Testament scriptures uplift the powerful example of Abraham, Sarah and others who lived by faith, trusting in the promises of God – and Psalm 33 wraps it all up, “Surely, our heart rejoices in you, O Lord, for in your holy name we put our trust!” It is an exciting time of year, with many things happening in upcoming weeks. Be sure to mark your calendars for the Annual School Bag Blessing on Aug. 14, and our big Rally Day Faith Formation kickoff on Aug. 21 (see below). Our exciting theme is “See HOPE More Clearly!” “Shine Jesus Shine” won the vote for this week’s Sending Hymn – and we offer special prayer for our ELCA Churchwide Assembly in Columbus, OH next week, with the theme, “Embody the Word!” We look forward to worshipping together this Sunday – to be reminded how a life shaped by faith truly allows us to bring through barriers, move from surviving to thriving, and extend the umbrella of God’s hope to everyone! #SundayWorship
