10am worship Service

 This Sunday, we gather with our sisters and brothers in faith from around the world to celebrate World Communion Sunday.  We will explore Matthew 21:33-46, where we’ll ponder the consequences of our tendency to hoard God’s gifts as our own.  We’ll also ponder the stone that the builders rejected and how we may be broken open for the world. 

 Last Sunday, we sang about The Heart of Worship, and this Sunday, we will again be challenged by Jesus to look beyond the surface to the heart of things in Matthew 21:23-32. Speaking of singing, we are also looking forward to the return of the Northbrook choir in worship on Sunday… though it may feel a little different than before.   

 The challenges continue this Sunday as we explore Matthew 20:1-16.  Maybe you can relate with those laboring out in the vineyard all day, only to discover that they were given the same wage as those who only worked an hour.  It’s not fair!  We want a sense of justice in the world.  Yet, we struggle with a God who is generous.  Join us for worship on Sunday to let the promise of God’s goodness settle into our souls. 

 This Sunday, we return to the sanctuary to our regular 10am worship time.  As we follow the lectionary through the Gospel of Matthew this fall, we will return to our Abide and Thrive theme (based on John 15:4-5).  On Sunday, we will explore Jesus’ emphasis on forgiveness in the Body of Christ.  Matthew 18:21-35 is a challenging passage!  There’s no way around it.  The truth is, forgiveness doesn’t come easy.  And, it’s core to our faith.  Without it, the abundant life that Christ promises is downright impossible.  Thankfully, in Jesus Christ, God chooses to forgive us.  And, in doing so, sets us free to forgive others.