Seen any burning bushes lately?
In a recent article, Victor Parachin suggests that we could learn something from Moses: how to minister in the midst of diversity. This month we prepare to celebrate the many voices and cultures of Pentecost Sunday (May 28th). So what can we learn from the varied roles Moses played in his life as liberator, nation builder, mediator, visionary, law-giver? Try these on:
–Look out for burning bushes. This single event catapulted Moses into a new direction. Rather than ignore it, he was curious. So be curious!
–Remain humble. Humility is not an inferiority complex nor a negative self-image. Like Moses, know that you are God-blessed with talents and worth. Live like it.
–Be a source of blessing. Moses encouraged those whom he led. Then he walked daily with them on the journey to a new place. Be an encourager.
–Put faith into action. Moses was a target of gossip and criticism but responded with forgiveness (Numbers 12). Don’t just speak the faith; do the faith.
These four teachings may not be among the formal Ten Commandments that Moses received on Mt. Sinai, but they can propel us forward in a world of wonderfully diverse people and cultures. Who knows, we may even see a few burning bushes on the path.
–Pastor David
Wednesdays at St. James …
Spend your noon hour each Wednesday in Pioneer Chapel for our half hour Noon Eucharist service. It is followed at 12:35pm by Pastor David’s Bible Study “Afterlife and the Book of Revelation.” This will continue through Wednesday, May 24th.
As a group we have been exploring the last book in the Bible and its strange and frightening imagery: the lake of fire, the whore of Babylon, and the seven scrolls. We have now arrived at the final chapters with a larger discussion on what the afterlife means to each of us. On Wednesday, May 3rd we will be joined by Lutheran World Relief representative Jamie Lennon. Join us for these final classes:
Wednesday, May 3rd: Turkey at the time of Revelation and Today
Wednesday, May 10th: Vision of a New Jerusalem (Revelation 21)
Wednesday, May 17th: The Tree of Life (Revelation 22)
Wednesday, May 24th: The Apocalypse of John and the Gospel of Jesus
Pentecost Sunday …
We will celebrate the birthday of the Christian Church on May 28th. We will hear of all the languages spoken on that first Pentecost Sunday (Acts 2) as God’s good news broke all boundaries. The readings for the day will be presented in a number of tongues.
New Members and Holy Baptism …
On Sunday, June 4th, St. James will again welcome new members. They will be received during the service and a welcoming reception will follow in Pioneer Chapel. The following Sunday the Nelson family will bring little Claire to the baptismal font as she is claimed by God’s love. If you are new to St. James and want to make St. James your spiritual home, please see Pastor David.
St. James and Emanuel Medical Center …
Beginning on June 7th, St. James will welcome Clinical Pastoral Education students for nine weeks. Pastors, and those training to be chaplains, will join our ministry in assisting the houseless. After food distribution, they will spend time counseling and providing pastoral care to those who gather in the South Park Blocks. Listening and acceptance is key. After August 11th another session will be scheduled for the autumn.
Summer Bach Cantata Vespers …
Mark your Calendars for our Bach Cantata Vespers service on Sunday, June 11th at 5:00pm. The service will feature Bach’s charming Cantata 112 “Der Herr ist mein getreuer Hirt” (The Lord is my faithful Shepherd). The St. James Bach Choir will be joined by soloists and instrumentalists. If you are interested in joining the choir for this service, please contact Director of Music Ministry, Colin Stave. Please join us for this beautiful service, and a reception to follow in Pioneer Chapel.
Sunday Parkside Concert Series …
This summer St. James is hosting a piano concert series to dedicate our beautiful Mason & Hamlin piano! Join us at 4:00pm on June 25th, July 9th, and August 13th for fun concerts filled with beautiful music featuring Nancy and Tim Nickel, Kevin Walsh, and more! There are still opportunities to support this endeavor through concert sponsorships, piano fund donations, and free will offerings. Contact the front office to be connected with Caitlin Stave for more information.
