“Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity.” Colossians 3:14 (NRSV)
Here is the link for the October 20, 2024 worship service: https://youtu.be/YrKXFTWn6wA
October 27, 2024 worship is at 10:45 a.m.
From Damber:
Scripture to Ponder – October 21, 2024
Theme: Reformation
Twenty-third after Pentecost
Scripture Reading: Job 42:1-6, 10-17 and Hebrews 7:25
Reformation Sunday is a Christian observance celebrated primarily by Protestant denominations, commemorating the beginning of the Protestant Reformation. This significant movement originated in the early 16th century, primarily associated with Martin Luther, who famously posted his Ninety-Five Theses on the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg, Germany, in 1517. Luther’s actions challenged the practices of the Roman Catholic Church, particularly the sale of indulgences, and emphasized salvation through faith alone, the authority of Scripture, and the priesthood of all believers.
Reformation Sunday is typically observed on the last Sunday in October, near the anniversary of Luther’s pivotal act. It serves as a reminder of the Reformation’s core values—faith, grace, and the importance of scripture—and encourages reflection on the ongoing need for renewal and reform within the church. It often includes special services, hymns, and sermons that highlight the themes of freedom in Christ and the call to discipleship.
Have you ever changed your mind about something? Five hundred years ago, some people in the church changed their minds. They thought the church was not acting the way Jesus would want it to. So, they reorganized everything.
Have you ever changed the things you do in your life because you didn’t like how they were doing? Jesus wants us to think about how we can be better people and how we can be a better church. What ideas do you have?
Scripture to Ponder
In Job 42:1-6, we witness a profound moment of transformation as Job acknowledges God’s sovereignty: “I know that you can do all things.” After enduring immense suffering, Job moves from questioning God to recognizing His supreme authority, repenting in humility. This internal reformation reflects the essence of true repentance and dependence on God’s grace.
Similarly, Hebrews 7:25 highlights Jesus as our eternal High Priest, assuring us that He “is able to save completely those who come to God through him.” This assurance invites a personal relationship with Christ, shifting our reliance away from rituals to direct communion with God.
Together, these passages challenge us to seek both personal and communal reformation. They remind us to embrace a transformative faith that reflects God’s grace and truth in our lives and our church. As we reflect on these scriptures, let us open our hearts to God’s renewing work, fostering deeper discipleship and a more authentic expression of our faith.
Questions to Reflect
In what areas of our church life might we need reformation? For instance, we could focus on becoming a truly intercultural church that fosters an environment where all cultures can thrive. This includes cultivating compassion and understanding toward our differences, as well as envisioning a future church that embraces diversity and inclusion.
Prayer
Gracious God, as we reflect on the Reformation, open our hearts to the changes you desire in our lives and in our community. Help us recognize your goodness and grace in every moment. Strengthen our faith in Jesus as our High Priest and inspire us to actively participate in the transformation of our church, embodying love and justice in all we do. Amen.
Trinity United Church 