Greetings to all!
Reflecting on Psalm 34:4 ("Glorify the Lord with me; let us together
extol God's name."), Joyce Rupp comments on the importance of a
strong, positive attitude, both for one's self and for others.
Have you ever noticed how another person's spirit or attitude
influences your own? I was at a gathering recently and the person
next to me was filled with negativity and criticism. She complained
about everyone and everything. I found myself joining in with her.
Her negativity fed mine. I left feeling badly about my behavior. I
know it's healthy to voice legitimate complaints and concerns, but I
also know it's lethal to the spiritual life when one gripes and
criticizes incessantly. Life's wonderful gifts can easily be missed
when life is constantly viewed negatively.
Then I thought of Sandra, a member of my Wednesday morning prayer
group. When she comes into the room, she brings with her an aura of
hope and optimism. She finds a lot to laugh about and looks at life
in a positive way. It's not that she denies her own problems and
troubles or that she never complains about her life, but she has a way
of not letting herself get completely absorbed in them. I like being
around her and feel uplifted and hopeful when she's there. Could this
be why the psalmist issues an invitation to praise and glorify God
together? Could it be that the psalmist recognized how the strength
of one positive, grateful person can draw another into similar
gratitude and praise of God? I tend to think so.
(from Inviting God In)
SUMMER QUESTIONS: Our Scripture lessons and sermon continue to be
prompted by your questions. This week's question: Tell us about your
faith journey. (This Sunday concludes our summer question series.
Thanks for all your questions and topic suggestions.)
The Scripture lessons for Sunday, August 9:
Genesis 32:22-31
Romans 12:9-21
Mark 16:1-8
LtQ2 - "Living the Questions 2.0" video discussion series continues
each Sunday morning, 10am, in Trinity Hall. Each session includes a
20 minute video followed by group conversation. Session titles
upcoming for the next three Sundays include "Thinking Theologically,"
"Stories of Creation," and "Lives of Jesus." Feel free to join the
conversation, enjoy a cup of coffee, or just listen in.
MEN'S COFFEE - Walnut Hill men are invited to gather for coffee on
Saturday, August 15, 8am, at Paneras on Richmond Road. Feel free to
stop in for as long or short a time as your schedule allows. No rsvp
required.
"TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALL GAME!" - An evening of baseball is being
organized for Tuesday, August 25, 7pm, at Applebee's Park, as the
Lexington Legends host the Hickory Crawdads. Tickets are $8/person.
This event is open to all ages (children must be accompanied by a
parent). Reserve your ticket(s) before August 15 using the sign up
sheet in the sanctuary foyer, or by contacting Gene Brockopp.
MEN'S AND WOMEN'S DINNERS: (mark your calendars)
*The next Walnut Hill Men's Dinner will be held on Tuesday, September
22, 6pm, at the Signature Club (Lansdowne Dr). Our guest for the
evening will be the Rev. Bob Sessum, Good Shepherd Episcopal Church,
who will speak regarding current issues facing the Episcopal Church in
the United States.
*The next Walnut Hill Women's Dinner will be held on Wednesday,
September 23, 6:30pm, at Buddy's Bar and Grill (corner of High St &
Euclid Ave). Our guest for the evening will be Dr. Maureen Flannery
(MD), who will speak regarding alternative healing methods.
ADDRESS/PHONE DIRECTORY - A new directory is currently being
prepared. If you have recently changed your address or phone number,
please contact Lee Tucker, so that we will have the most up-to-date
information possible for the directory.
THANKS TO...Nell Horman for her work with the children this past
Sunday; ...the Choir, Chris and Barbara Bohmer, Phil Bloomfield,
Carthel and Megan Smith for their leadership and assistance during
worship.
Peace to all.
Mike Ward
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