Wednesday, September 5, 2007

weekly letter

September 5, 2007
 
Greetings to all!
 
September often signals the resumption of activities and commitments that are suspended during the summer.  Things seem to become busier, our time more committed, maybe over committed.  As we enter into the busy season, we might benefit from some advice on how to retain inner peace.
 
     Living in the present brings the one thing most people spend their lives striving to achieve: peace.  Relaxing into the present moment puts you in the mental and physical state of calm, quiet, and tranquility and finally gets us off the here-but-gotta-get-there treadmill.  If you are in the moment doing whatever you are doing, then there is no time to examine the gap between your expectation and the reality of how things are, or between where you are and where you think you should be...Many of us race through our lives, always on our way somewhere.  If you ask ten drivers on their morning commute what they are doing, nine of them will most likely respond, "going to work."  The tenth one - the one who responds, "driving my car" - is the one who has learned the lesson of present moment peace.  Chances are he does not arrive at work any later than the other nine who spent their commute focused on where they were headed as opposed to where they were.  He probably even enjoyed the ride.
(from If Life is a Game, These are the Rules, by Cherie Carter-Scott)
The Scripture lessons for Sunday, September 9:
     Jeremiah 18:1-11
     Philemon 1-21
     Luke 14:25-33
 
Sunday Conversations regarding the lessons for the day (see above) continue this Sunday, 10am, in Trinity Hall.
 
Parents' Meeting:  Parents of children (nursery age through high school) are asked to attend a brief meeting after worship this Sunday, September 9.  Lauren Fouts will be presenting information regarding 2007-2008 Sunday School and youth activities.
 
Women's Guild:  The Walnut Hill Women's Guild will gather on Monday, September 10, 1:30pm, at the home of Marian Congleton (1373 Delong Circle).   This year's study will focus on the book, 10 Gospel Promises for Later Life, by Jane Marie Thibault. All Walnut Hill women are invited to attend this gathering for fellowship and study.
 
Youth:  Walnut Hill Youth (middle school and high school) are invited to "Just Dinner" next Tuesday, September 11.  This is a great opportunity for an evening out with church friends.  Contact Lauren Fouts (laurenfouts@bellsouth.net or 863-5823) to rsvp.
 
Fall Potluck: The annual fall potluck is coming up on Sunday, September 16, after morning worship.  Mark the date on your calendar.  Some help is needed with set-up and clean-up.  Contact the church office if you would be willing to help. 
 
In the Community:  The 2007 Lexington CROP Walk to benefit hunger relief is scheduled for Sunday, September 16, 2:30pm.  This event is open to all ages.  Contact Mike Ward for more information.
 
Thanks, news, etc...
     *Thanks to... David and Ruth Sharrard, Phil Bloomfield, and the Walnut Hill Choir for their assistance and leadership at worship last Sunday; Kim DeCamp for assisting with our refreshments last Sunday; many folks for their good 50th birthday wishes to yours truly including a delicious birthday cake courtesy of Marian Congleton. 
     *Check the sanctuary foyer this week for printing samples being proposed for the new Walnut Hill worship book.  We would like your input regarding appearance, legibility, etc.
     *Hosts are need for our after worship refreshments this Sunday, September 16.  Use reply email to let us know if you would like to host (co-host) our refreshments this Sunday.
   
Peace to all.
 
Mike Ward

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