Wednesday, August 18, 2010

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

August 18, 2010

Greetings to all!

Being just back from vacation, I am reminded of the value of a healthy
balance between work and rest.  In the Jewish and Christian traditions,
such balance was ritualized in the practice of "Sabbath observance."  While
certainly different today than in generations past, Sabbath observance 
might still have some gifts to offer.  Consider the following thoughts 
from Dorothy Bass.

The practice of keeping Sabbath bears much wisdom for people
seeking ways through the crises of these times and the stresses of 
contemporary life.  "The solution of mankind's most vexing problems will
not be found in renouncing technical civilization, but in attaining some 
degree of independence from it," writes Abraham Heschel.  Sabbath
keeping teaches that independence.  Refraining from work on a regular
basis is a way of setting limits on behavior that is perilous for both human
welfare and the welfare of the earth itself.  Overworked Americans need
rest, and they need to be reminded that they do not cause the grain to 
grow and that their greatest fulfillment does not come through the 
acquisition of material things.  Moreover, the planet needs a rest from 
human plucking and burning and buying and selling.  Perhaps, as 
Sabbath keepers, we will come to live and know these truths more fully,
and thus to bring their wisdom to the common solution of humanity's 
problems.
(from Practicing Our Faith)

The Scripture lessons for Sunday, August 22:
Exodus 20:8-11
Hebrews 12:18-29
Luke 13:10-17

Men's Coffee - Walnut Hill men are invited to gather for coffee this 
Saturday, August 21, 8am, at Paneras on Richmond Road.  Feel free
to drop in for as long or short a time as your schedule permits.  No rsvp
required.

Host(s) Needed - A host (s) is needed for our after worship refreshments
this Sunday, August 22.  Use reply email to volunteer for this Sunday, or
check the sign up sheet in the Sanctuary foyer for a Sunday later in the
summer or fall.  Thanks to all our refreshment hosts!

Last Call! This Sunday, August 22, is the last call for our big blue barrel
summer food drive.  Bring your non-perishable food items and help us top
off the barrel before it is returned to God's Pantry next week.  

Thanks to all those who helped in so many ways during our family's 
recent vacation to maintain Walnut Hill's worship, fellowship, and ministry.
In ways seen and unseen, planned and unplanned, the community of faith
is alive and well at Walnut Hill.

Peace to all.

Mike Ward


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