Family Vacation

Josanne and I have been on family vacation with our kids this past week. We missed being with you all on Sunday, but we have had a great time. Our kids are at the age now that we are going back over the memories of family vacations from the past, in addition to making great memories now. It’s a powerful combination that shows something about our growth and change through the years.

It’s the same with our congregation. It is good to remember what has happened in the past, and to celebrate the heroes of the faith who are responsible for where we are. At the same time, we should be aware of how what we are doing now will impact our future. We are all responsible for doing our part to work toward our congregation’s future.

We’ve been trying to avoid watching much news on vacation. It’s a time for relaxing, not being reminded of the many things going on in the world that may disturb us. We couldn’t avoid, however, hearing the awful news coming out of Charlottesville. It's a time for Christians to be clear that we do not condone racism of any kind because we believe all people have inherent value because they are all created in the image of God. Our text for yesterday affirms this. James wrote, “With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be” (James 3:9-10, NIV 2011). A practical way we live out our Christianity is by denouncing racist ideology and practices.

We’ll look forward to seeing everyone on Sunday, but remember that we will not be meeting at the Church building. This Sunday will be our Danvers Days joint worship service in the park in Danvers. Make sure you come out and bring your lawn chairs. We’re going to have some special music, some singing together, and a short devotional.

Also remember Fall kickoff will be September 10th! Make sure to invite a friend for that day!

God bless,

Brian