Friday, November 3, 2017

11-05-17


“If I knew the world would end tomorrow, I would still plant an apple tree.”  -- Martin Luther

 

What a wonderful weekend we just celebrated with the Kirkin’ o’ th’ Tartans, the 95 Theses for Today, and the excellent drama on Martin Luther written by Pastor Kristy Ray.  Thanks to the scores of members and friends who served to make it possible for well over 500 people from church and community to be inspired from “Light from the Past” that gives hope for tomorrow.

 

Christians are a people of endless hope rather than a people of a hopeless end.  Martin Luther lived in a time of plague, persecution, political change, intellectual discovery, and spiritual turmoil.  The people of his day literally thought the world was about to end.  Nevertheless, they lived by faith in God, assurance of the grace of Jesus Christ and confident in the power of the Holy Spirit.  God accomplished mighty things through them!

 

We face many challenges in the world and in the church today, just like in the Reformation.  Faced with the challenges of his time, Martin Luther affirmed his faith saying, “If I knew the world would end tomorrow, I would still plant an apple tree.” Good thing… as the trees Luther planted 500 years ago are still bearing fruit.  May we, like Martin Luther, be hopeful and courageous in our service to God! 

 

Next weekend, November 11-12, you and I will consecrate our Estimates of Giving for 2018 to the Lord in the context of worship.  This we do in hope, faith, and generosity knowing that God does great and enduring things through faithful people.  This will be our time of planting, of investing in God’s work as you and I consecrate our money, time and talents for the ministry and mission of the kingdom.  You will receive a brochure and an Estimate of Giving Card in the mail in the next few days.  The emphasis will be to “Step Up” as able in the spiritual discipline of tithing. 

 

As giving to God is both a discipline and joy, Eastminster will have an all-church Celebration Luncheon at 11 a.m. on Sunday November 12.  This is a time to celebrate in Thanksgiving for all that God has provided and to enjoy being together in fellowship.  A “Home Cooked Sunday Dinner” will be served around tables as we celebrate God’s goodness, grace and love.  All are encouraged to attend.  No reservations are necessary.  What a joy it is to be in a congregation that has a sweet spirit and enjoys fellowship together!

It is said that humans can count the seeds in an apple, but only God knows how many trees those seeds will bear.  I am grateful for those in the past who planted so that we might enjoy fruit today, and humbled at what God will do as we “plant trees” today through obeying God’s commands and enjoying the “fruit” of generosity.

 

See you in Church,

Pastor Tim

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