Greetings to all!
Joyce Rupp reflects on how the words we speak can heal or hurt those
around us, and where those words come from.
There have been times when I knew that what I was speaking to
another person was a blessing of love and care. I knew this because
my heart felt kindness and compassion. There have also been times
when I knew that what I was speaking was causing great anguish and
pain to another person. At these times, my heart was also full, but it was
a fullness of anger, hurt or resentment. I have learned to look carefully
into my heart during an emotionally charged situation before I speak
in order to search out my motivations and my desires.
It also helps to pray that my heart has a strong foundation in genuine
love. Jesus is always our model for this. He spoke from the fullness of
his heart, and he spoke words of wisdom, care and compassion. He
also spoke words of challenge and conversion, but these words were
always spoken out of love.
Each night before going to sleep, it is good to reflect on the day to
recall what we have said to others and to see what kind of fullness our
heart has held. Only one question is needed: Did my words and
actions today come from a loving heart?
(from Inviting God In)
The Scripture lessons for Sunday, May 16:
Deuteronomy 6:1-9
Acts 1:1-11
Matthew 22:34-40
Men's Coffee - Men are invited to gather for coffee this Saturday, May 15,
8am, at Paneras on Richmond Rd. Feel free to stop in for as long or
short a time as your schedule allows. No rsvp required.
Sunday Conversations continue this Sunday, May 16, 10am, in Trinity
Hall. Sunday Conversations include a wide range of biblical, theological,
and social topics. Stop in on Sunday morning and join the conversation.
Spring Potluck, Sunday, May 16, after worship: Bring a salad, side
dish, or dessert, and join in this delicious Walnut Hill tradition.
The Inquiry Team will be presenting the results of our recent congregational
survey during worship on Sunday, May 16. Following their presentation, the
Team will host several focus groups according to the schedule below:
*Buildings & Grounds - Wed, May 19, 7pm, at Walnut Hill
*Adult Ed & Community Outreach - Thu, May 20, 7pm, at Walnut Hill
*Children & Youth - Sun, May 23, after worship, at Walnut Hill
Members and friends of Walnut Hill are encouraged to participate in any or
all of these focus group meetings. Let your thoughts be heard!
In the Community: Walnut Hill Church has received an invitation to share
in a Pentecost Eve celebration on Saturday, May 22, 7pm, at Chapel Hill
Presbyterian Church (corner of Tates Creek and Armstrong Mill Rd).
A reception will follow the service.
Peace to all.
Mike Ward
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