February 18, 2009
Greetings to all!
This Sunday, February 22, is the "Transfiguration of the Lord," recalling the story in which Jesus and three disciples were on a mountain when Jesus was "transfigured" before them (Mark 9:2-9). Joyce Rupp reflects on this story from the perspective of the disciples who were not present.
I never tire of hearing the story of the transfiguration of Jesus. It has such power and mystery in it. I wondered today about what might have happened "behind the scenes": how did the rest of the disciples feel about missing out on this profound moment of revelation? Surely they would have longed to have been on the mountain, too. I suspect that they had some feelings of envy, questioning why Jesus hadn't chosen to take them along. After all, they were also his disciples.
Sometimes other people have the things we long for: money, opportunity for travel, faithful friends, good health, a marriage partner, consolation in prayer, children who are successful, and so on. What happens inside of us when we see someone else receive something we wish we had? To be genuinely happy for another's "mountaintop experience" is a sign of a truly generous spirit. To enter into someone else's joy without wishing it was our own is a great gift that we can give another.
(from Inviting God In)
The Scripture lessons for Sunday, February 22, the Transfiguration of the Lord:
2 Kings 2:1-12
2 Corinthians 4:3-6
Mark 9:2-9
Saving Jesus, a video discussion series exploring Jesus Christ for the third millennium, continues this Sunday, February 22, 10am, in Trinity Hall. This Sunday's session, "Killing Jesus: The Atonement," explores what it means to say that Jesus' death was "sacrificial" and what Jesus' sacrifice might mean (or not mean) for us. Feel free to join the conversation, enjoy a cup of coffee, or just listen in. (Childcare is available upon request. Use reply email or call the church office to request child care.)
Host(s) Needed - Hosts are needed for our after worship refreshments this Sunday, February 22. Remember that refreshments need not be elaborate, just something simple to gather around as we fellowship after worship. Use reply email to volunteer as a host (co-host) for this Sunday's refreshments. Check the sign up sheet in the sanctuary foyer for opportunities in the weeks ahead.
Men's Dinner - The next Walnut Hill Men's Dinner is scheduled for Thursday, February 26, 6:00pm, at Buddy's (corner of Euclid Ave. and High St.). Mr. Tom Martin, editor of Business Lexington, will be the speaker. Use reply email or contact Gene Brockopp to RSVP.
One Great Hour of Sharing: The One Great Hour of Sharing is an ecumenical offering that supports refugee resettlement and disaster relief around the world. Pick up a collection box for your household at Walnut Hill this Sunday, or make one for yourself if you prefer. Beginning with Ash Wednesday (Feb 25), at each meal, invite family members to put a coin in the collection box. During your table grace, include a prayer for some place and people of the world. On Easter Sunday (April 12) bring your offering to Walnut Hill, and it will be added to the special One Great Hour of Sharing offering received that day.
Some Assembly Required - Several new pieces of nursery equipment were recently purchased requiring some assembly. This should be a relatively easy job for someone skilled with his/her hands and able to follow instructions. Use reply email or contact Lauren Fouts to volunteer.
Thanks, news, etc...
*Thanks to...Dorothy Brockopp and Natalie Brown Watt for coordinating last week's Women's Dinner; Lisa Smith for editing the recent edition of the Walnut Hill Newsletter; Ron Johnston and Mark Horman for their leadership of the Walnut Hill Working Group and the Cemetery Association Business Meeting respectively; Whitty Rea for her work with the Sunday School children.
*Officers were elected at last Sunday's Cemetery Association business meeting including President (Mark Horman), Vice President (Jeff DeReamer), and Secretary-Treasurer (Deidre Talbott). Thanks to these persons for their willingness to serve, and thanks also to Amy Trail for her recent service as Cemetery Association Secretary-Treasurer.
*The Episcopal Diocese of Lexington holds its annual convention this week. Angela Hurley and Mike Ward will be attending on behalf of Walnut Hill.
*We are currently in a process of transition regarding the church's computer equipment and internet service. We expect this transition will be rather seamless, but feel free to call the church office (263-5304) if you have any difficulty receiving or sending emails to/from the church over the next few weeks.
Peace to all.
Mike Ward
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