Time in Bluffton

This past week I was in Bluffton, Ohio for the first time. That’s where the Central District Conference annual meeting was being held. The Bluffton University campus is beautiful and provided a great location for our meeting. The Thursday night opening worship service was held at Grace Mennonite Church in Pandora, Ohio. Rich and Gloria Bucher were there so I was able to say hello to them. Our own Bishop Joseph Stuckey got a mention in the sermon as well. I was hoping to link to the sermon, but they had audio issues. The highlight for me was a visit to the Swiss Community Historical Society. They have restored an old farmhouse, barn, tool shed, and summer kitchen. If you’re in the area, it is definitely worth a visit. I’ve left the CDC annual meeting book on the table in the fellowship hall if you’d like to take a look.

During yesterday’s worship service we saw how turmoil began to take over David’s family. Next week we’ll be looking at the way that David’s son, Absalom, led a rebellion against his own father and for a period of time usurped the throne. Our actions have consequence for others beyond ourselves. Our bad decisions can affect our family and our community. In David’s case, the brokenness in his family affected the entire nation!

I can’t believe it’s time for the band concerts already! Next Sunday will be the first performance. In three weeks, on July 13th, it will be North Danvers’ time to provide the ice cream social. There are sign-ups on the table in the fellowship hall to help out. There will also be a pie-baking day on July 12th.

They’ve extended the heat warning until later in the week, so make sure to stay safe if you are out cutting the lawn or some other outside activity. Drink lots of water!

Hope to see you Sunday!

God bless,

Brian

Scripture readings for next Sunday

2 Samuel 16:5-14—Why do you think David reacts to this situation the way that he does?

2 Samuel 17:15-24—What do you think it felt like for David to be on the run again?

Psalm 27—What does this psalm teach us about facing abandonment and discouragement?

2 Corinthians 4:1-12—What are some reasons that Paul might have felt abandoned?